frozen chicken patties recipe
The Best frozen chicken patties recipe
Okay, so there’s this recipe I’ve been making for years now, and I’ll just tell you why it’s always a hit with us. Frozen chicken patties are basically the ultimate convenience for busy weeknights, and honestly, they’re not just quick—they’re a solid way to get protein in without all the fuss of cooking from scratch every single time. My kids—especially the little ones—love them because they’re easy to eat, and they don’t get too messy like raw meat can be. Plus, they’re great for meal prep. I’ll make a batch on Sunday, freeze them, and then we just pop them in the oven or air fryer when we’re hungry. No stress, no cleanup, just good food.
I also love that this recipe is pretty healthy if you keep it simple. No heavy sauces, no extra junk—just seasoned chicken, a little breadcrumb or almond flour for structure, and some spices that make it taste good without overdoing it. My husband says it’s one of the few things he can eat that doesn’t feel like a chore, and honestly, I get why. It’s not fancy, but it’s filling, and it’s something you can serve with almost anything—kids’ dinner, a quick family meal, or even a light lunch. Plus, the fact that it’s frozen means you can grab one whenever you’re in a rush without worrying about spoilage. It’s that kind of recipe that’s always there when you need it.
Easy Homemade Frozen Chicken Patties
A simple, no-fail recipe for homemade frozen chicken patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners.
🥘Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, finely chopped
- 1 large egg, beaten
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp paprika
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C) if baking. Otherwise, heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
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2 In a food processor, pulse chicken until finely chopped. Transfer to a large bowl.
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3 In a separate bowl, whisk egg, flour, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Pour into the bowl with chicken and mix well.
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4 Heat olive oil in the skillet until very hot. Form the mixture into 1-inch thick patties. Cook for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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5 For glaze: Mix all glaze ingredients in a small bowl. Once patties are cooked, brush with glaze and let set for 2 minutes.
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6 If baking: Transfer patties to a lined baking sheet. Bake for 15–18 minutes or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
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7 Let patties cool on a rack for 5 minutes before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or large mixing bowl
- Non-stick pan or skillet
- Oven (optional, for baking)
- Plastic wrap or parchment paper
- Cooling rack
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Homemade Frozen Chicken Patties Works
This recipe for frozen chicken patties is always a lifesaver when you need quick, hearty meals without the fuss. They’re perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re hosting a family get-together, because they cook fast and leave little cleanup—just toss them in the pan, let them brown, and you’ve got a protein-packed dish that everyone will love. Plus, they’re easy to scale up or down, so whether you’re feeding a small crowd or just a few, they work flawlessly.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Frozen Chicken Patties
How long should I thaw the frozen chicken patties before cooking?
You can safely thaw frozen chicken patties in the refrigerator overnight (about 8–12 hours) for the best results. If you’re short on time, you can also thaw them in cold water for about 30–45 minutes, ensuring the water stays cold and the patties are fully submerged. Avoid thawing at room temperature to prevent bacterial growth.
What’s the best way to prevent frozen chicken patties from drying out while cooking?
To keep patties juicy, avoid overcooking. Cook them in a medium-hot pan (or oven at 375°F/190°C) for 6–8 minutes per side (for 6–8 oz patties). If using an air fryer, cook at 375°F (190°C) for 10–12 minutes, shaking halfway. Adding a splash of water or broth in the pan can also help steam them gently. For extra moisture, brush with a little oil or melted butter before cooking.
Can I make these patties ahead of time and store them?
Yes! You can store uncooked frozen patties in the freezer for up to 3 months. Once cooked, let them cool completely, then refrigerate in an airtight container for 3–4 days or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in the oven (350°F/175°C for 15–20 mins) or microwave (5–7 mins) to maintain texture.
What seasonings or herbs work best with these frozen chicken patties?
Classic seasonings include garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, black pepper, and dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or Italian seasoning. For a tangy twist, add a pinch of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce to the pan. If using a marinade, try a simple mix of lemon juice, olive oil, minced garlic, and herbs before cooking. Avoid over-seasoning to prevent bitterness.
How do I know if my frozen chicken patties are cooked through?
Use a food thermometer—chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part. Visually, patties should be no longer pink inside and have a light golden-brown crust. If cooking in a pan, flip carefully and check for even browning. For extra safety, remove from heat before reaching full browning to avoid overcooking.
