Ingredients
1. Shredded Chicken (4 cups)
The star of the show! Shredded chicken is the base for this recipe. You can use any cooked chicken, but rotisserie chicken is particularly convenient and flavorful. It adds a depth of taste that pre-cooked chicken breasts might lack. When shredding the chicken, ensure the pieces are small and uniform to help them bind well with the other ingredients.
2. Eggs (2 large)
Eggs serve as a binding agent, helping the chicken mixture come together and hold its shape. They also contribute to the richness of the patties, giving them a smooth texture. The eggs work alongside the flour to create a batter that’s thick enough to mold into patties while still allowing for a juicy interior.
3. Mayonnaise (1/3 cup)
Mayonnaise is a secret ingredient that adds a touch of creaminess and moisture to the patties. It keeps the chicken cakes tender on the inside, preventing them from becoming dry. The mayonnaise also works in harmony with the egg, giving the patties a soft, pillowy texture.
4. All-Purpose Flour (1/3 cup)
Flour helps to stabilize the patty mixture, giving it structure and thickness. It absorbs the moisture from the mayonnaise and eggs, allowing the patties to hold their shape while cooking. It also adds a slight tenderness to the finished dish, making each bite soft and satisfying.
5. Fresh Dill (3 Tbsp)
Dill brings a refreshing, herby element to the dish. Its vibrant flavor cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese, balancing the taste and adding complexity. If you’re not a fan of dill, parsley works as a great substitute, though it will give the patties a milder, earthier flavor.
6. Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)
Salt and pepper are essential for seasoning the chicken patties. These ingredients ensure that the flavors come to life and don’t fall flat. Adjust the amount based on your taste preferences, but don’t be afraid to be generous—this dish can handle a bit of seasoning.
7. Lemon Zest (1 tsp)
Lemon zest is the key to a zesty kick that elevates the chicken patties. The fresh citrus flavor adds brightness and a subtle tang that complements the rich cheese and tender chicken. It’s the perfect finishing touch for balancing the savory and cheesy notes.
8. Mozzarella Cheese (1 1/3 cups, shredded)
Mozzarella is the ideal cheese for these patties because it melts beautifully and provides a gooey, cheesy center. When you bite into these patties, the cheese stretches, offering a fun and indulgent experience. The mild flavor of mozzarella doesn’t overpower the other ingredients but adds just the right amount of creaminess.
9. Olive Oil (2 Tbsp)
Olive oil is used for sautéing the patties, helping them achieve a golden, crispy exterior. The oil contributes a bit of richness to the patties while also ensuring they don’t stick to the pan.
10. Panko Bread Crumbs (1 cup)
Panko breadcrumbs are the key to the crispy exterior that defines these Chicken Patties. Their light and airy texture creates a delicate crunch without being overly dense. They also help to seal in the moisture from the chicken and cheese, resulting in a patty that’s crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Instructions
1. Prep the Chicken
Start by shredding your chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. If you’re using leftover rotisserie chicken, simply pull the meat off the bones and shred it with your hands or a fork. For this recipe, you’ll need about 4 cups of shredded chicken, which is roughly equivalent to the meat from two large chicken breasts. Make sure the chicken is cool enough to handle before you begin, as this will make shredding much easier.
2. Mix the Wet Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, crack the two eggs and whisk them together with the mayonnaise, flour, dill, salt, pepper, and lemon zest. The eggs and mayo will combine into a smooth batter that will hold the chicken and cheese together. The flour helps to thicken the mixture, while the dill and lemon zest add the herbaceous and citrus notes that make these patties so flavorful.
3. Add the Chicken and Cheese
Once the wet ingredients are thoroughly mixed, add in the shredded chicken and mozzarella cheese. Stir everything together until the chicken is evenly coated in the batter, and the cheese is well distributed throughout the mixture. The cheese should be shredded finely enough to melt into the chicken, ensuring every bite is creamy and cheesy.
4. Chill the Mixture
Cover the bowl and place it in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. Chilling the mixture will help it firm up, making it easier to form the patties. This step is crucial for ensuring that the patties hold their shape during cooking and don’t fall apart in the skillet.
5. Form the Patties
Once the mixture has chilled, it’s time to form the patties. Using a trigger-release ice cream scoop, divide the mixture into 12 to 15 portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then gently flatten it to form a patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. This will give the patties a uniform shape and ensure they cook evenly. After forming each patty, dip both sides in the panko breadcrumbs. The breadcrumbs will give the patties their signature crispy exterior.
6. Cook the Patties
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place half of the patties in the skillet, ensuring there’s enough space between them so they don’t touch. Sauté the patties for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy. If necessary, add more oil to the pan between batches. Repeat the process with the remaining patties.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb any excess oil. Immediately sprinkle with a pinch of salt and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top for a burst of brightness. Serve the patties warm, and enjoy them with a side of vegetables, a salad, or dipping sauces of your choice.
Notes
- Use Cold Chicken: Chilling the chicken mixture before forming the patties helps prevent them from falling apart while cooking. It also makes the patties easier to handle.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to suit your tastes. A pinch of garlic powder or onion powder can be a great addition if you like a little more depth of flavor.
- Switch Up the Cheese: While mozzarella is the traditional choice, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, gouda, or even cream cheese for an extra creamy texture.
- Make Ahead: These Chicken Patties can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can even freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months—just be sure to layer them between sheets of parchment paper before freezing.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes