Air Fryer Chicken Patties: Perfect Timing For Crispy Treats

Chicken patties are a quick and easy meal to make in an air fryer. They can be made from scratch or store-bought frozen, and are a great option for a chicken burger. The cooking time varies depending on the thickness of the patties, the air fryer model, and whether they are frozen or not, but generally, they take between 7 to 12 minutes to cook at around 360°F to 400°F.

Cooking time and temperature

The cooking time and temperature for chicken patties in an air fryer depend on the brand of the air fryer, the thickness of the patties, and whether they are frozen or not.

For frozen chicken patties, the cooking time is generally between 7 to 12 minutes at a temperature setting of 360°F to 400°F. It is recommended to preheat the air fryer for about 3 to 5 minutes before placing the patties in a single layer inside the basket. Flipping the patties halfway through the cooking process ensures even cooking and browning.

For homemade chicken patties, the cooking time is longer, with a total cooking time of 20 minutes at 350°F. It is important to note that overcrowding the air fryer basket should be avoided, as it can lead to uneven cooking and less crispiness.

To achieve the desired level of crispiness, some recipes suggest adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time. Additionally, spraying the patties with extra virgin olive oil 2 to 3 minutes before the end of the cooking process can enhance crispness.

A meat thermometer can be used to ensure the chicken patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F, indicating that they are cooked through.

How to get the perfect crispy texture

To get the perfect crispy texture for your chicken patties, there are several steps you can follow. Firstly, it is important to preheat your air fryer to ensure even cooking. The ideal temperature for cooking chicken patties is around 360°F (180°C). Place the frozen chicken patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket, ensuring they are not overlapping. This will prevent overcrowding and allow for even cooking.

For extra crispiness, brush or spray the patties with olive oil or extra virgin olive oil. You can do this before cooking or in the last few minutes of the cooking process. The cooking time for chicken patties is typically between 7 to 12 minutes, depending on the thickness of the patties and your desired level of crispiness. For a more golden and crispy texture, cook the patties for a longer duration, such as 10 to 12 minutes, flipping them halfway through.

If you prefer your chicken patties with a breaded coating, you can prepare a breading mixture by combining breadcrumbs and grated Parmesan cheese. Coat each patty with the breading mixture before placing them in the air fryer. Breaded chicken patties may require a longer cooking time, around 12 to 14 minutes, to ensure the breading is crispy and golden.

Additionally, avoid over-mixing the chicken mixture when preparing the patties, and ensure they are formed into thin, flat shapes, about 1 inch thick, as they will plump up during cooking. Adding a small amount of olive oil to the meat mixture will also enhance the texture, making the patties juicier and more tender.

By following these steps, you can achieve the perfect crispy texture for your chicken patties, making them a delicious and quick meal option for any occasion.

Chicken patty ingredients and alternatives

Chicken patties are a great alternative to chicken nuggets. They are a quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights, and can be served in a variety of ways. Here are the ingredients and alternatives you can use to make delicious chicken patties.

Ingredients

The main ingredient in chicken patties is, of course, ground chicken. You can use chicken mince or ground chicken breast, but avoid using super lean mince as it may make the patties dry. You can also use ground turkey as an alternative.

Other ingredients include:

• Breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
• Egg
• Garlic
• Onion (fresh or dried)
• Olive oil
• Spices (salt, black pepper, dried oregano, dried basil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried chilli pepper flakes, etc.)
• Fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme)

Alternatives

Chicken patties can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and flour. You can also coat them in breadcrumbs before cooking for extra crunch, or skip the breadcrumbs altogether.

For a vegan alternative to chicken patties, you can try brands like BOCA, Morningstar, Gardein, Quorn, or Aldi, which offer vegan chicken patty options. You could also opt for a veggie patty, such as a black bean or quinoa patty.

Serving suggestions

Chicken Patty Burgers

Chicken patties can be served in a variety of buns, such as brioche, multigrain, pretzel, or ciabatta rolls. Toasting the bun adds an extra crunch. For toppings, a slice of cheese—American, Colby Jack, Pepper Jack, or Cheddar—along with lettuce, tomato, and sauces like spicy Sriracha mayo, mustard, or honey mustard, work well.

Chicken Patty Sandwiches

Chicken patties can be served in a sandwich with a variety of toppings and condiments such as mayo, mustard, BBQ sauce, dijon mustard, or your favourite dipping sauce. Top with red onions, avocado, bell peppers, or sautéed onions, and consider using potato buns, wheat buns, or brioche buns.

Chicken Patty Wraps

Chicken patties can be used in a wrap with toppings and sauces of your choice. For a spicy option, try a buffalo chicken wrap.

Chicken Patty with a Side

Chicken patties can be served with a side of rice or potatoes and steamed veggies.

Chicken Patty with a Dipping Sauce

Chicken patties can be served with a side of BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch. Sweet potato fries would make a great addition to this meal.

Chicken Patty Salad

Chicken patties can be cubed and served on a bed of lettuce with your favourite salad veggies and a dressing.

Reheating and storing tips

Chicken patties can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheated in the air fryer when needed. Reheating chicken patties in an air fryer is a much better option than using a microwave, as the breading stays crispy and the patties taste freshly cooked.

To reheat chicken patties in an air fryer, preheat the air fryer to 350 degrees. Place the patties in the air fryer and cook for 3-5 minutes until warmed thoroughly.

Chicken patties can also be frozen and stored in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. It is best to separate each patty with a piece of parchment paper or wax paper before freezing.

To reheat frozen chicken patties, place them in the air fryer and cook at 360°F for 16-18 minutes. Alternatively, they can be reheated in the microwave in 30-second increments until warmed through.

If you have made your own chicken patties, it is recommended to let the patties chill in the fridge for 30 minutes or more (up to 24 hours) before cooking. This helps the patties hold their shape and enhances their flavour.

Frequently asked questions