If you’re craving a meal that’s crowd-pleasing, wholesome, and ready in a flash, this Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe will quickly earn a spot in your weekly dinner rotation. Golden and juicy, these chicken patties are infused with aromatic garlic and onion, a pop of Dijon for tang, and just enough seasoning to make every bite memorable. Whether you’re looking for a lighter burger alternative or a versatile protein to toss into salads and wraps, this effortless recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss. Get ready to meet your new favorite air fryer essential!
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe truly shines thanks to its simple, fuss-free ingredients. Each one brings something special to the table, whether it’s for texture, moisture, color, or that crave-worthy taste.
- Ground chicken: The star of the show, providing lean, juicy flavor and a perfect base for soaking up seasonings.
- Breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned): These help bind the patties and add structure, ensuring they’re tender but never crumbly.
- Egg: Acts as the ultimate binder, holding everything together for a cohesive patty that cooks up beautifully.
- Finely chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and extra moisture, keeping the patties juicy from the inside out.
- Garlic clove, minced: Infuses every patty with irresistible savory depth—don’t skip this for flavor!
- Mayonnaise: Sneaky but essential, it lends a creamy, satisfying texture to each bite.
- Dijon mustard: Brings a pop of tang and a touch of sophistication, balancing the richness of the chicken and mayo.
- Salt: Elevates every component and helps amplify all the other seasonings.
- Black pepper: For a hint of warmth and a classic background note.
- Paprika: Adds subtle smokiness and lovely color for extra visual appeal.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Ensures the patties release easily and get that irresistible crispy exterior.
How to Make Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Chicken Patty Base
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl, because it’s time to create maximum flavor with minimal effort. Add in your ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Using clean hands or a fork, mix everything just until combined—be careful not to overmix, which can make patties dense. The mixture should be soft and slightly sticky, and you’ll already smell those amazing aromatics coming together.
Step 2: Shape Your Patties
Divide your chicken mixture into four even portions, and gently form each one into a patty about 1/2 inch thick. Take your time here—the patties don’t need to be perfect, but keeping them uniform helps them cook evenly in the air fryer. If you want to get ahead, you can shape the patties earlier in the day and store them, covered, in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.
Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for about 3 minutes. This quick preheat step ensures that your patties begin cooking right away for that signature golden crust. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray to prevent sticking and to help crisp up the chicken patties perfectly on both sides.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Carefully arrange your patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, making sure they don’t touch—this gives each one the best chance at crisping up rather than steaming. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes total, flipping halfway through so they brown evenly. You’ll know they’re done when they’re golden, sizzling, and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Rest the patties for a couple of minutes after cooking; this helps all those tasty juices redistribute for maximum flavor.
How to Serve Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe is how easy it is to dress up. Try topping your patties with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and a little red onion for burger night, or sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a vibrant, fresh pop. A dollop of creamy aioli, tangy pickles, or even a simple squeeze of lemon can take these over the top.
Side Dishes
Pair your chicken patties with fluffy buns and classic sweet potato fries for a traditional meal, or keep it light with a crunchy slaw or a refreshing green salad. For a protein-packed lunch, serve the patties over a bowl of quinoa or brown rice with your favorite roasted veggies—the options for a wholesome, balanced plate are endless.
Creative Ways to Present
Don’t feel limited by the classic burger presentation! Slice your chicken patties and tuck them into a pita wrap with greens and a yogurt sauce, crumble over a salad for quick meal prep lunches, or even use mini versions for flavorful sliders at your next gathering. Kids love these cut into strips as quick, homemade chicken fingers!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover patties from this Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. They stay juicy, and you’ll love having them ready for a quick lunch or dinner. Just make sure to let the patties cool before refrigerating so they retain the best texture.
Freezing
One of the most helpful aspects of this recipe is its freezer-friendliness. You can freeze fully cooked or uncooked patties—just separate them with parchment and store in a freezer-safe bag or container. For uncooked frozen patties, cook straight from frozen in the air fryer, adding a few extra minutes to ensure they’re cooked through.
Reheating
Give your leftover chicken patties new life by popping them back in the air fryer for 3 to 4 minutes at 350°F. This brings back their irresistible crispiness. You can also reheat in the microwave for convenience, though the patties will be softer. Either way, the flavor and juiciness stick around!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for this Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully and offers a similar lean texture. Just keep an eye on the cook time, as turkey patties might brown a little quicker than chicken.
What can I use if I don’t have mayonnaise?
If you’re out of mayo, try using plain Greek yogurt or even sour cream. Both add creaminess and moisture, making sure your patties stay tender and flavorful.
How do I make the Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe gluten-free?
This is super simple—just swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, so you won’t have to change a thing.
Can I add other veggies or herbs to the mix?
Absolutely! Finely grated carrot, chopped spinach, or fresh herbs like parsley or chives fold in easily, giving the patties an extra burst of flavor and nutrition without affecting how they cook.
How do I know when the chicken patties are done?
Check that the patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should be golden brown on both sides, firm to the touch, and the juices should run clear if gently pierced with a knife.
Final Thoughts
I can’t wait for you to try this Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe and see just how easy and delicious homemade chicken patties can be! Whether you enjoy them stacked on a bun, sliced into salads, or tucked into wraps, these patties are sure to become a regular at your table. Give them a go and let the simple flavors and crispy air fryer magic speak for themselves!
Print
Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Chicken Patties are juicy, flavorful, and easy to make. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these patties are a healthier alternative to traditional fried chicken patties.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 egg
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- nonstick cooking spray
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, onion, garlic, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about 1/2 inch thick.
- Air Fry: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the air fryer basket with nonstick cooking spray. Place the patties in the basket in a single layer, leaving space between each. Air fry for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Remove and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
- For extra flavor, mix in fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
- These patties are great on buns, in wraps, or served over salad.
- You can also freeze uncooked patties and cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
