Chicken Patties (Easy Chicken Cakes) – Quick Dinner Recipe
Crispy, juicy, and full of flavor—these chicken patties (easy chicken cakes) are the perfect quick dinner recipe. Made with simple ingredients, they’re versatile enough to serve with salads, sandwiches, or dipping sauces.
Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Skillet or frying pan
- Spatula
- Measuring tools
- Plate for shaping patties
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or ground)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or crushed crackers
- ½ small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Optional Add-ins:
- ½ cup shredded cheese
- 2 tbsp fresh herbs (parsley, dill, cilantro)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare Chicken: Shred leftover chicken or use ground chicken.
- Mix Ingredients: In a bowl, combine chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, and seasonings. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape Patties: Form mixture into evenly sized cakes (about 2–3 inches wide).
- Heat the Pan: Warm olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook Patties: Place patties in the skillet and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown.
- Check Doneness: Ensure patties are cooked through (internal temp 165°F/74°C).
- Rest Before Serving: Let patties rest briefly to retain juices.
- Important: Avoid overmixing—it can make the patties dense instead of tender.
Notes
- Keep Mixture Moist: Add a splash of broth if too dry.
- Cook on Medium Heat: Prevents burning while ensuring inside cooks through.
- Don’t Overcrowd Pan: Cook in batches for crispiness.
- Make Ahead: Freeze uncooked patties for quick meals later.
- Variations: Add cheese, herbs, or spices for different flavor profiles.
- Serving Ideas: Pair with dipping sauces, salads, or tuck into sandwiches.