Description:
These tender and juicy chicken patties are packed with melted mozzarella cheese, offering a satisfying and flavorful meal. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, they pair wonderfully with fresh salad, sandwich bread, or your favorite side dish. This easy-to-follow recipe can be customized with optional ingredients like herbs and vegetables for an extra flavor boost.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken Patties:
- Ground chicken: 1 lb (450 g)
- Mozzarella cheese (shredded): 1 cup (100 g)
- Bread crumbs: ½ cup (50 g)
- Egg: 1 large
- Garlic (minced): 2 cloves
- Onion (finely chopped): ¼ cup (40 g)
- Fresh parsley (chopped): 2 tbsp
- Salt: 1 tsp
- Black pepper: ½ tsp
- Olive oil (for frying): 2-3 tbsp
Optional Ingredients (for extra flavor):
- Parmesan cheese (grated): 2 tbsp
- Red pepper flakes: ½ tsp
- Fresh basil or cilantro (chopped): 2 tbsp
- Diced bell pepper: ¼ cup (40 g)
- Lemon zest: ½ tsp
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, mozzarella cheese, bread crumbs, egg, garlic, onion, parsley, salt, and pepper. If you’re using any optional ingredients, add them at this stage. Combine everything until evenly mixed. - Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions and shape them into patties, about ½-inch thick. - Cook the Patties:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken patties in batches, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan. Fry for 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C). - Melt Mozzarella (Optional):
For extra cheesiness, add a slice of mozzarella on top of each patty during the last minute of cooking. Cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt. - Serve:
Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve alongside a fresh salad, on burger buns, or with a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips for Success:
- Use cold ingredients: Chilled ground chicken is easier to shape into patties.
- Don’t overmix: Overmixing can result in dense, tough patties.
- Avoid flipping too early: Let the patties cook until they easily release from the pan to ensure a nice crust.
- Cook in batches: Don’t overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
Recommendations:
- For meal prep: Double the batch and freeze any leftover patties for future meals.
- Serving suggestions: Enjoy with mashed potatoes, grilled veggies, or in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.
- Sauce pairing: Serve with marinara sauce, pesto, or garlic aioli for an extra flavor kick.
Nutrition (per patty, approx.):
- Calories: 230
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 14 g
- Carbohydrates: 6 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 400 mg
Enjoy these irresistible chicken patties as a delicious addition to your meals!
