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Chicken patties, or as I like to call them, easy chicken cakes, are a delightful way to transform leftover chicken into a meal that’s not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving them as a main dish, a snack, or even packing them into lunch boxes, these patties are bound to be a hit with everyone at the table. The magic lies in the combination of tender shredded chicken, creamy mayonnaise, and the fresh brightness of dill, all enveloped in a golden, crispy crust.

With just a handful of ingredients and a quick sauté, you can whip up these chicken cakes in no time. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making them again and again!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

These chicken patties are not just easy to make; they are also incredibly satisfying and packed with flavor. Here’s why you’ll want to keep this recipe in your rotation:

Quick and Easy: In under 30 minutes, you can have a delicious meal ready to go.
Versatile: Serve them in a sandwich, on a salad, or with a dipping sauce – the possibilities are endless!
Healthy and Nutritious: Made with lean chicken and fresh herbs, these patties are a great source of protein.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love these tasty bites!

What to Buy

To make these chicken patties, gather the following ingredients:

4 cups shredded chicken, from 2 large chicken breasts (16 oz by weight)
2 large eggs
1/3 cup mayonnaise
1/3 cup all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped (or 1 tablespoon parsley)
3/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon lemon zest, plus lemon wedges to serve
1 1/3 cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
2 tablespoons olive oil to sauté, divided
1 cup Panko bread crumbs

Appliances & Accessories

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following appliances and accessories handy:

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
Skillet: A non-stick skillet works best for sautéing the patties.
Spatula: For flipping the patties without breaking them.
Measuring Cups and Spoons: To measure out your ingredients accurately.

The Method for Chicken Patties (Easy Chicken Cakes)

Now that you have everything you need, let’s dive into the steps to create these fabulous chicken patties!

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

If you don’t have shredded chicken on hand, you can easily cook your chicken breasts. Simply boil them until cooked through, then shred them using two forks. Allow the chicken to cool slightly before using.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, dill, salt, black pepper, lemon zest, and mozzarella cheese. Mix until everything is well incorporated. The mixture should be moist but hold together well.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into patties about 2-3 inches in diameter. You can make them thicker or thinner depending on your preference.

Step 4: Coat with Panko

Spread the Panko bread crumbs on a plate. Gently press each patty into the crumbs to coat both sides, which will give them a lovely crunch when cooked.

Step 5: Sauté the Patties

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties in batches, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through. Add more oil as needed for subsequent batches.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, serve the chicken patties hot with lemon wedges on the side for a refreshing squeeze of citrus. They’re perfect on their own or paired with a dipping sauce like ranch or a tangy yogurt sauce.

Smart Substitutions

Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your taste or dietary needs with these smart substitutions:

Chicken: Substitute with turkey or even canned tuna for a different flavor.
Mayonnaise: Use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
Flour: Swap all-purpose flour for almond flour or gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version.
Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a flavor twist.

Watch Outs & How to Fix

While this recipe is straightforward, here are some common issues you might encounter and how to remedy them:

Patties falling apart: Ensure the mixture is moist enough and consider adding an extra egg to bind the ingredients better.
Patties too dry: If the mixture feels too dry, add a little more mayonnaise or a splash of broth to combine.
Uneven cooking: Make sure your skillet is hot enough before adding the patties to ensure they cook evenly.

Keep It Fresh: Storage Guide

To keep your chicken patties fresh, follow these storage tips:

Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze raw patties on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Ask & Learn

Can I use leftover rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken is perfect for this recipe, making it even easier and quicker to prepare.

What can I serve with chicken patties?

These patties are delicious with a side of fresh salad, steamed vegetables, or even tucked into a burger bun with your favorite toppings.

Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?

Yes! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked through.

How do I know when the patties are done cooking?

The patties should be golden brown on the outside and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when checked with a meat thermometer.

Desserts to Finish

To round off your meal, consider one of these delightful desserts:

Final Thoughts

Making chicken patties is not just about cooking; it’s about creating something that brings comfort and joy to your dining table. This recipe is adaptable, forgiving, and allows for creativity in the kitchen. So next time you have leftover chicken, remember this easy chicken cakes recipe and enjoy the delightful flavors and textures that come together so effortlessly.

These chicken patties are sure to become a family favorite, and I can’t wait for you to experience the joy they bring. Happy cooking!
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