Air Fryer Hack: Frozen Chicken Patties, Cooked Perfectly

Chicken patties are a versatile dish that can be used in burgers, wraps, salads, and more. They are a great option to have handy in your freezer for a quick and easy meal. Cooking frozen chicken patties in an air fryer is a convenient and healthy way to prepare them. With minimal prep, you can have juicy and crispy chicken patties ready to be enjoyed in a variety of ways.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in cooking frozen chicken patties as it ensures that the patties cook evenly. The ideal temperature to preheat your air fryer to is between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. The time required for preheating varies depending on the model of the air fryer, but it is typically around 4 to 5 minutes.

For example, one source recommends preheating the air fryer to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, while another suggests a higher temperature of 400 degrees Fahrenheit. It is worth noting that the preheating time may differ depending on the model of your air fryer, so it is always a good idea to refer to the manufacturer's instructions or guidelines.

While preheating is generally recommended, it is not mandatory. If you are short on time, you can skip the preheating step, but keep in mind that this may increase the overall cooking time for your frozen chicken patties.

Once your air fryer has preheated to the desired temperature, you can proceed with placing the frozen chicken patties inside and following the cooking instructions.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for frozen chicken patties in an air fryer depend on the brand and model of the air fryer, the thickness and size of the patties, and the desired level of crispiness. It is recommended to preheat the air fryer to ensure even cooking and crispiness. The preheating temperature can vary, with sources recommending preheating temperatures of 350 degrees Fahrenheit, 360 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius), or 400 degrees Fahrenheit.

Once preheated, the cooking temperature for the chicken patties can be set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, 360 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius), or 360 degrees Fahrenheit (182 degrees Celsius). The cooking time can range from 7 to 20 minutes, depending on the size and thickness of the patties and the desired level of crispiness. It is generally recommended to cook the patties for 7 to 10 minutes, flipping them halfway through, and adding an additional minute or two for extra crispiness.

It is important to note that the cooking time may vary depending on the air fryer model, so it is advisable to keep an eye on the patties while they cook. Additionally, for food safety, it is recommended to use a meat thermometer to ensure that the internal temperature of the chicken patties reaches at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (73 degrees Celsius).

After cooking, it is suggested to let the chicken patties rest for 4 to 5 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite.

Flipping the patties

The cooking time for chicken patties in an air fryer can vary depending on the size and thickness of the patties, the power of the air fryer, and your desired level of crispiness. Some sources recommend cooking chicken patties for 7-9 minutes, while others suggest 10-20 minutes. Therefore, you should keep a close eye on your patties to ensure they don't overcook or burn.

If your chicken patties are frozen together, you may need to air fry them for a few minutes first to thaw them enough to separate them. Then, you can spread them out in a single layer and continue cooking, flipping halfway through.

Once your patties are cooked, it's a good idea to let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a juicier bite. You can then serve your chicken patties in a variety of ways, such as on a bun with lettuce and condiments, or sliced up in wraps, sandwiches, or salads.

Serving suggestions

Frozen chicken patties cooked in an air fryer are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions:

Burger or Sandwich

Add the cooked chicken patties to a burger bun or bread roll, along with your choice of toppings and condiments. You can also toast the bun in the air fryer for a minute or two to add a crispy texture. Some suggested toppings and condiments include:

• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Cheese (American, Cheddar, Mozzarella, Parmesan, or your favorite variety)
• Sauces (mayo, mustard, BBQ sauce, dijon mustard, or your favorite dipping sauce)
• Red onions
• Avocado
• Bell peppers
• Sauteed onions

Salad

Slice the cooked chicken patties into strips and place them on top of a bed of greens for a healthy and delicious lunch option. You can also add other salad ingredients such as tomatoes, cucumbers, and your favorite salad dressing.

Side Dishes

Serve the chicken patties with a variety of side dishes, such as:

• French fries or chips
• Mashed potatoes
• Green beans
• Cole slaw
• Baby carrots
• Fruit

Pasta

Add some tomato sauce and sprinkle mozzarella or parmesan cheese on top of the cooked chicken patties. Place them back in the air fryer for a minute to melt the cheese, and then serve over cooked pasta for a tasty chicken parmesan dish.

Appetizer or Snack

Cut the chicken patties into quarters and serve them as an appetizer or snack with your favorite chicken nugget dip.

Reheating and Storage

If you have any leftover chicken patties, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place them back in the air fryer at 350°F (180°C) for 2-6 minutes, or until heated through.

Reheating and storing

While chicken patties are best enjoyed fresh, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. It is not recommended to freeze and then re-freeze chicken patties.

To reheat chicken patties, preheat your air fryer to 350°F to 360°F (180°C) for 5 minutes. Brush the air fryer basket with a bit of oil, then place the patties in a single layer, ensuring there is enough room for the air to circulate. Reheat for 5 to 6 minutes, or until heated through.

If you are reheating breaded chicken patties, you can reheat them at 350°F for 2 to 3 minutes or until heated through.

Frequently asked questions