Air-Fryer Chicken Patty Perfection: Timing Is Everything

Chicken patties are a quick and easy meal to make in an air fryer, taking less than 20 minutes to cook. They can be made from scratch or store-bought, and are a healthier alternative to deep-fried chicken. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the patties, whether they are frozen or not, and the type of air fryer being used.

Preheat the air fryer

Preheating your air fryer is an important step in the cooking process. It ensures that your chicken patties will cook evenly, giving you that perfect juicy interior and golden brown crispy exterior.

To preheat your air fryer, simply turn it on and set the temperature to your desired level. Most recipes recommend preheating your air fryer to between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. You should then leave it to heat up for around 5 minutes. This is enough time for the air fryer to reach the desired temperature and for the heat to be distributed evenly throughout the cooking chamber.

It is important to note that different air fryer models may have different preheat settings and times, so be sure to refer to your air fryer's user manual for specific instructions. Additionally, if you are using an air fryer oven, you may need to preheat it for a longer period, similar to a conventional oven.

Once your air fryer has preheated, you can proceed with placing your frozen chicken patties inside and setting the timer for the desired cooking time. Remember to place the patties in a single layer and not overlapping, as this will ensure even cooking.

Temperature and timing

The temperature and timing for cooking chicken patties in an air fryer will depend on the brand of the air fryer, whether the patties are frozen or fresh, and the desired level of crispiness.

For frozen chicken patties, preheat your air fryer to between 350 and 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Place the frozen patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, leaving space between them. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the patties are golden brown and have an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you are using Tyson frozen chicken patties, the brand recommends heating at 360 degrees Fahrenheit for 10 minutes or until heated through.

For fresh, homemade chicken patties, preheat your air fryer to 390 degrees Fahrenheit. Brush the patties with olive oil and place them in the air fryer basket, ensuring they have space and are not touching. Air fry for 7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 4 to 5 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

If you prefer your patties extra crispy, coat them in breadcrumbs before cooking and air fry for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Flipping the patties

When flipping the patties, use a spatula or tongs to carefully lift and turn them over. It is important to ensure that the patties are not overcrowded in the air fryer basket, as this will make them difficult to flip and could lead to uneven cooking. Aim for a single layer of patties with a little space around each one.

After flipping, the patties will continue to cook for the remaining time. This second half of the cooking process will give the patties a nice golden brown colour and ensure that the inside is cooked through.

If you are adding cheese to your chicken patties, this is typically done after the patties have finished cooking. Place a slice of cheese on each patty and close the air fryer drawer. The residual heat will melt the cheese without overcooking the patties.

For best results, always preheat your air fryer before adding the patties. This will help ensure even cooking and browning. Additionally, try to avoid overcrowding the air fryer basket, as this can affect the circulation of hot air and impact the cooking time and evenness of the results.

By following these simple steps, you'll be able to flip your chicken patties with ease and confidence, ensuring a delicious and evenly cooked result every time.

Internal temperature

Achieving the correct internal temperature is crucial when cooking chicken patties in an air fryer to ensure they are cooked thoroughly and safely. The USDA recommends cooking poultry products to an internal temperature of 165°F.

When cooking chicken patties in an air fryer, it is important to use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. This will ensure that the patties are cooked thoroughly and prevent overcooking or drying out. Insert the thermometer into the centre of the thickest part of the patty to get an accurate reading.

For frozen chicken patties, preheat the air fryer to 360°F for 5 minutes. Then, cook the patties for 10-12 minutes, flipping them halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.

For homemade chicken patties, the cooking time and temperature may vary. One recipe suggests cooking at 390°F for 7 minutes on one side, then 4-5 minutes on the other side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. However, cooking times may vary depending on the size of the patties and the type of air fryer, so it is important to monitor the internal temperature closely.

It is worth noting that some sources suggest cooking chicken patties to a lower internal temperature since they are often pre-cooked. However, it is always best to follow food safety guidelines and cook poultry to an internal temperature of 165°F to reduce the risk of foodborne illness.

Serving suggestions

Chicken patties are a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some serving suggestions to make the most of your air-fried chicken patties:

Sandwiches and Burgers

Chicken patties are a great option for sandwiches and burgers. You can serve them on brioche buns, everything seasoned buns, or multigrain buns. For an extra touch of crispness, toast the buns in the air fryer for 1-2 minutes. Add your favourite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, sliced onions, pickles, and cheese. Don't forget the sauces! Spicy Sriracha mayo, mustard, honey mustard, BBQ sauce, spicy mayo, or hot honey sauce can all enhance the flavour of your chicken patty sandwich.

Sides

If you're looking for a heartier meal, serve your chicken patties with a side of rice or potatoes, and some steamed or air-fried vegetables. Sweet potato fries are a great option to pair with the patties.

Dipping Sauce

Chicken patties also go well with dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or ranch. You can also serve them with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.

Salads and Grain Bowls

For a lighter option, chop up the chicken patties and serve them on top of a green salad or grain bowl. This way, you can enjoy the juicy, tender patties without the bun.

Customise the Flavour

Feel free to customise the flavour of your chicken patties by adding different seasonings. You can try garlic herb, Italian, Cajun, or taco seasoning blends to switch up the taste. You can also add grated Parmesan, shredded mozzarella, or your favourite shredded cheese to the mixture for a gooey, cheesy surprise.

Frequently asked questions