Ingredients
- 2 cups shredded chicken
- ¼ cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- ½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 large eggs
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1–2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 2 tablespoons vegetable or olive oil for frying
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Parmesan cheese, eggs, breadcrumbs, flour, green onions, parsley, minced garlic, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
2. Shape the Patties
Lightly moisten your hands with water or oil to prevent the mixture from sticking. Take a handful of the chicken mixture and shape it into a patty about ½ inch thick. Repeat until all the mixture has been used, forming multiple patties.
3. Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable or olive oil over medium heat. To check if the oil is ready, drop a small piece of the mixture into the pan. If it sizzles immediately, the oil is at the right temperature for frying.
4. Cook the Patties
Carefully place the patties into the hot pan, leaving some space between them to ensure even cooking. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust. Adjust the heat if necessary to prevent burning.
5. Drain Excess Oil
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels or a wire rack. This helps remove any excess oil and keeps them crisp.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the patties warm with your favorite dipping sauce, such as ranch dressing, garlic aioli, or marinara sauce. They pair well with a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or a side of rice.
Notes
Ensuring the Patties Hold Together
If the patties are falling apart while shaping or cooking, try the following:
- Add an extra egg to improve binding.
- Increase the amount of breadcrumbs to absorb excess moisture.
- Chill the mixture for 15-20 minutes before shaping to firm it up.
Preventing Overcooking or Burning
- Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning while ensuring the inside cooks through.
- If the patties brown too quickly, lower the heat and cook them a little longer.
- If using a thicker patty, cover the pan with a lid for part of the cooking time to allow the heat to cook the inside without over-browning the outside.
How to Tell If the Patties Are Cooked
- The exterior should be golden brown and crispy.
- The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) when checked with a food thermometer.
- If unsure, cut one patty in half to ensure it is fully cooked inside.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes