Irresistible Chicken Patties with Mozzarella

These Irresistible Chicken Patties with Mozzarella are a family favorite that combines lean chicken breast, creamy mozzarella cheese, and fresh herbs for a flavorful, satisfying meal. The patties are quick to prepare, taking less than 30 minutes, and are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The gooey mozzarella in the center of each patty makes them even more delicious, and they can be customized to suit your taste. Whether served as a main dish with a side salad, rice, or vegetables, or as an appetizer, these chicken patties are sure to impress

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

30 grams (1/4 cup) green onions – Finely chopped to add a mild, oniony flavor.
500 grams (1 lb) chicken breast – Finely diced or ground, providing a lean protein base for the patties.

2 tablespoons sour cream – Adds moisture and creaminess to the patties.
2 large eggs – Helps bind the mixture together and gives the patties structure.
2 tablespoons fresh parsley – Chopped for a fresh, herbaceous flavor.

80 grams (3/4 cup) mozzarella cheese – Shredded, it melts into the patties for a delicious, gooey center.
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour – Used to help bind the ingredients and give the patties a crispy texture.
Salt and pepper to taste – For seasoning.

1/2 teaspoon dry garlic powder – Adds a subtle garlic flavor.
1/2 teaspoon paprika – For a mild smokiness and a hint of color.
Oil for frying – To crisp up the patties in the skillet.

Instructions

Prepare the Ingredients:

Start by finely chopping 30 grams of green onions and 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley. Set them aside for later use. Next, dice or grind 500 grams of chicken breast into small pieces. Place the chicken into a large mixing bowl. These small pieces ensure even cooking and a consistent texture for the patties.

Combine Ingredients:

To the bowl with the chicken, add 2 tablespoons of sour cream and 2 large eggs. Mix well until the ingredients are fully incorporated. The sour cream adds a creamy texture and helps bind the ingredients together, while the eggs provide structure.

Add Dry Ingredients and Seasonings:

Add chopped green onions, parsley, and 80 grams of shredded mozzarella cheese to the mixture. Stir everything together until evenly distributed. Sprinkle in 2 tablespoons of flour, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Add 1/2 teaspoon of dry garlic powder and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika to the mixture. Stir until everything is well combined, and the mixture is slightly sticky but holds together when shaped into patties.

Form the Patties:

Using your hands or a spoon, scoop out portions of the mixture and shape them into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. This size ensures that the patties cook evenly and are easy to serve.

Fry the Patties:

Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan. Fry them for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Be careful not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. This will ensure that each patty gets crispy on the outside and stays tender on the inside.

Serve and Enjoy:

Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the pan and place them on paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve the patties warm, garnished with extra parsley or green onions, if desired. These chicken patties are great as a main dish, paired with a fresh salad, rice, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips:

Ensure Even Cooking: Make sure the chicken pieces are finely diced or well-ground for even cooking. This will help the patties cook through without burning the outside.
Control the Heat: Fry the patties over medium heat to ensure they become crispy on the outside while staying fully cooked on the inside. High heat may cause them to brown too quickly on the outside while remaining raw on the inside.
Customize Your Flavors: Feel free to experiment with other herbs like dill, basil, or thyme. You can also substitute the mozzarella with cheddar or your favorite cheese to change the flavor profile.

Substitutions and Variations:

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute the all-purpose flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour for a gluten-free version of these patties.
Keto-Friendly: To make the recipe keto-friendly, use almond flour instead of regular flour. This will lower the carb content and make it suitable for a keto diet plan.
Cheese Variations: While mozzarella is the perfect cheese for melting, you can easily swap it for cheddar cheese, Monterey Jack, or Swiss cheese for a different taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breast?
Yes, you can substitute chicken thighs for chicken breast. Thighs are slightly fattier and will result in a juicier patty. Just make sure to finely dice or grind the chicken thighs to ensure an even texture.
How can I make the patties crispy without deep-frying?
If you prefer a lighter version, you can bake the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and cooked through. This method is great for reducing the amount of oil used.
Can I freeze the patties for later?
Yes, these patties can be frozen. Simply place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet in a single layer, freeze them for a few hours, and then transfer them to an airtight container or freezer bag. When ready to cook, fry them straight from the freezer, adding a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

Nutritional Benefits:

High in Protein: Chicken breast is a lean source of protein that helps with muscle building and repair, making this dish an excellent choice for a post-workout meal.
Calcium-Rich: Mozzarella adds a good amount of calcium, which is essential for bone health and helps keep your bones strong.
Low-Carb Option: This recipe is relatively low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.

Dietary Information:

Gluten-Free Option: To make the patties gluten-free, substitute regular flour with gluten-free flour or almond flour.
Keto-Friendly: By using almond flour instead of all-purpose flour, these patties can fit into a keto diet plan.
Nut-Free: This recipe contains no nuts, making it safe for those with nut allergies.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 200
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Sugars: 2g
Fat: 12g
Fiber: 1g

Conclusion

These Irresistible Chicken Patties with Mozzarella are the perfect combination of cheesy, savory, and crispy. They are a quick, easy, and customizable dish that can be made in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for busy weeknights. Whether you serve them as a main dish or as an appetizer, they are guaranteed to be a hit with the whole family. With the option to adjust flavors and ingredients, these patties can be made to suit any dietary preference. Enjoy them with your favorite sides or on their own, and savor the delightful flavors in every bite.