Chicken Patties (Easy Chicken Cakes)
Chicken Patties (Easy Chicken Cakes) are one of those comforting dishes that feel like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, these patties hit all the right notes with their tender shredded chicken, gooey mozzarella, and bright hints of lemon and dill. The best part? They come together quickly and use simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.
This recipe is perfect for those moments when you want something delicious but don’t want to spend hours cooking. Crispy on the outside, cheesy and flavorful on the inside, these chicken patties are versatile enough to pair with a fresh salad, tuck into a sandwich, or serve with your favorite dipping sauce. Let’s dive in and make some magic happen!
Why It Deserves a Spot
Chicken Patties are a fantastic way to transform leftover or freshly cooked chicken into a whole new meal. They’re quick to prepare and satisfyingly flavorful, making them a great option for busy families or anyone craving comfort food with a twist. The addition of fresh dill and lemon zest lifts the flavors, while mozzarella cheese adds a luscious melty center that everyone will love.
What really makes these patties stand out is how adaptable they are. Whether you want to keep them classic or experiment with different herbs and spices, they’re a blank canvas for your creativity. Plus, using olive oil to sauté keeps them light and healthy without sacrificing crispiness. These patties are proof that simple ingredients can create something truly special and crowd-pleasing.
What’s in the Bowl
- 4 cups shredded chicken (from 2 large chicken breasts, about 16 oz by weight) – cooked and shredded
- 2 large eggs – to bind everything together
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise – adds moisture and richness
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour – helps hold the patties
- 3 Tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 Tbsp parsley) – for a fresh herbal note
- 3/4 tsp salt, or to taste
- 1/8 tsp black pepper – just a touch for balance
- 1 tsp lemon zest, plus lemon wedges to serve – brightens the flavor
- 1 1/3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded – melty and delicious
- 2 Tbsp olive oil to sauté, divided – keeps the patties golden and crispy
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs – for extra crunch on the outside
Prep & Cook Tools
- Large mixing bowl – to combine all your ingredients
- Cheese grater – for shredding mozzarella and zesting lemon
- Large skillet or frying pan – to sauté your patties to golden perfection
- Spatula or turner – to flip the patties gently
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accuracy
- Knife and cutting board – for chopping dill or parsley
- Shredder or forks – to shred cooked chicken breasts if not pre-shredded
Chicken Patties (Easy Chicken Cakes) in Steps
Step 1: Gather and Prepare Ingredients
Start by shredding your cooked chicken breasts. You can use two forks or a stand mixer to get nice, fine shreds. Finely chop your fresh dill or parsley, and zest the lemon. Shred the mozzarella cheese and set everything aside for easy assembly.
Step 2: Mix the Patty Batter
In your large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, chopped dill, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and shredded mozzarella. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold together but not too wet.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Sprinkle the Panko bread crumbs onto a plate. Scoop out about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture and shape it into a round patty, about 3 inches in diameter. Press each patty gently into the Panko crumbs to coat the outside for that extra crunch.
Step 4: Sauté to Golden Perfection
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties carefully, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the patties are golden brown and cooked through. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil as needed for the second batch.
Step 5: Serve Warm and Enjoy
Serve your chicken patties warm with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad, or you can get creative and serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy every bite of these cheesy, crispy delights!
Make It Your Way
- Swap the fresh dill for other herbs like basil or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the mixture for a subtle smoky heat.
- Mix in some finely chopped green onions or shallots for a mild onion flavor.
- Try using different cheese varieties like pepper jack or gouda for a fun twist.
- For an extra crunchy coating, mix Panko with some grated Parmesan cheese.
- Serve on toasted buns with lettuce and tomato for homemade chicken burgers.
- Pair with a side of roasted veggies or a creamy coleslaw for a complete meal.
Cook’s Commentary
These chicken patties strike a perfect balance between simplicity and flavor. The mayonnaise and eggs create a tender texture, while the flour and Panko keep the patties from falling apart and add just the right amount of crispiness. Fresh dill and lemon zest cut through the richness, making every bite bright and refreshing.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can easily double the batch for meal prep or freeze cooked patties for a quick dinner later in the week. Plus, if you love dishes like Chicken Parmesan Meatballs or the Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole, you’ll appreciate how these patties bring that same comforting, cheesy satisfaction in a new form.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
To store leftover chicken patties, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through to maintain their crispiness. For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as described.
Common Questions
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly and can save you time. Just shred the meat and make sure to remove any skin or bones before mixing it with the other ingredients.
How do I prevent the patties from falling apart while cooking?
Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet by measuring your ingredients carefully. Adding flour and eggs helps bind everything together. Also, refrigerate the formed patties for about 15 minutes before cooking to help them firm up.
Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter version. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through.
What dipping sauces pair well with chicken patties?
These patties are delicious with classic sauces like garlic aioli, honey mustard, ranch dressing, or a tangy tzatziki. You can also try a spicy sriracha mayo for a kick.
Try These Next
- Crispy Chicken Parmesan Bake – a cheesy, crispy baked chicken dish perfect for a comforting family dinner.
- Chicken Parmesan Meatballs – a fun twist on traditional meatballs with rich marinara and melted cheese.
- Cheesy Chicken Enchilada Casserole – layers of tender chicken, cheese, and enchilada sauce baked to perfection.
Save & Share
If you give these Chicken Patties a try, don’t forget to save this recipe for your busy nights and share it with friends and family who love easy, delicious meals. Nothing beats the joy of sharing good food and good company!
These patties are such a delight because they bring together the best of chicken and cheese with fresh herbs and a touch of citrus. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find this recipe straightforward and satisfying. So grab your ingredients, heat up that skillet, and get ready to enjoy some seriously tasty chicken cakes!
Chicken Patties (Easy Chicken Cakes)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by shredding your cooked chicken breasts. You can use two forks or a stand mixer to get nice, fine shreds. Finely chop your fresh dill or parsley, and zest the lemon. Shred the mozzarella cheese and set everything aside for easy assembly.
- In your large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, chopped dill, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and shredded mozzarella. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything until well combined. The mixture should be sticky enough to hold together but not too wet.
- Sprinkle the Panko bread crumbs onto a plate. Scoop out about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture and shape it into a round patty, about 3 inches in diameter. Press each patty gently into the Panko crumbs to coat the outside for that extra crunch.
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the patties carefully, being sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the patties are golden brown and cooked through. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil as needed for the second batch.
- Serve your chicken patties warm with lemon wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. They pair beautifully with a fresh green salad, or you can get creative and serve them alongside your favorite dipping sauces. Enjoy every bite of these cheesy, crispy delights!
Notes
- For a different flavor, swap fresh dill with basil or cilantro.
- Refrigerate formed patties for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold together better.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months.
