Delicious Chicken Zucchini Patties with Honey Mustard Glaze
If you’re looking for a healthy yet flavorful dish, chicken zucchini patties are a fantastic option. These patties offer a light and nutritious alternative to traditional meat patties, with shredded zucchini adding moisture and nutrients to ground chicken. The savory taste of these patties is elevated by a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze, making them perfect for a wholesome meal or a protein-packed snack. Plus, they’re easy to prepare and can be served in various ways to fit any occasion.
In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the steps to make these delectable chicken zucchini patties, complete with tips to ensure your patties turn out perfect every time. Whether you’re serving them for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, these patties are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients for Chicken Zucchini Patties
For the Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium zucchini, shredded
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
For the Honey Mustard Glaze:
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
How to Make Chicken Zucchini Patties
Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini
Start by shredding your zucchini. After shredding, it’s essential to squeeze out the excess moisture from the zucchini. Zucchini tends to release a lot of water, and if not properly drained, it can make your patties too wet and difficult to shape. To do this, place the shredded zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much liquid as possible.
Step 2: Mix the Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the following ingredients: ground chicken, shredded zucchini, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, egg, parsley, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Using a spoon or your hands, mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Form the Patties
Once the mixture is thoroughly combined, it’s time to form the patties. Use your hands to shape the mixture into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. You should get around 10-12 patties from this mixture, depending on the size.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the patties in batches. Avoid overcrowding the skillet as it will lower the oil temperature and prevent the patties from browning evenly. Cook each patty for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through.
After cooking, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.
How to Make the Honey Mustard Glaze
Step 1: Prepare the Glaze
In a small bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and salt until smooth. The glaze should have a balanced sweet and tangy flavor.
Step 2: Glaze the Patties
Once your patties are cooked and still warm, drizzle the honey mustard glaze over the top. You can also serve the glaze on the side as a dipping sauce if you prefer.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Zucchini Patties
These versatile chicken zucchini patties can be served in various ways, making them perfect for any meal or occasion:
As a Main Dish
Serve the patties with a side of steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or carrots. Pair them with a light, fresh salad for a complete, balanced meal. Quinoa or brown rice would also make a great accompaniment.
As a Snack
These patties are perfect for a quick and satisfying snack. Simply heat one or two and enjoy them on their own, or dip them in your honey mustard glaze for added flavor. They’re also great for meal prepping, as you can store them in the fridge and grab them whenever hunger strikes.
In a Sandwich
For a more indulgent option, serve the patties in a sandwich. Place one or two patties in a toasted bun, add lettuce, tomato, and onion slices, and spread some extra honey mustard glaze for a juicy, satisfying meal. You could even use them in sliders for a fun, bite-sized party treat.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Zucchini Patties
- Drain the zucchini thoroughly: As mentioned earlier, zucchini holds a lot of water, so make sure to squeeze out as much moisture as possible to prevent your patties from falling apart.
- Use cold ingredients: Cold ground chicken holds its shape better when forming patties. It also helps the patties stay firm during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: When frying the patties, avoid adding too many at once. Overcrowding the skillet can cause the patties to steam rather than fry, making them less crispy.
- Adjust the glaze to taste: If you prefer a sweeter glaze, add a bit more honey. For more tang, increase the Dijon mustard or apple cider vinegar.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. It offers a similar texture and flavor profile and works just as well with the zucchini and honey mustard glaze.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
Absolutely! If you want a lighter version, you can bake the patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They should be golden and cooked through when done.
How do I store leftover patties?
You can store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, these patties freeze well! After cooking, allow the patties to cool completely, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through.
Can I make the glaze ahead of time?
Yes, the honey mustard glaze can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just whisk it again before serving, as the ingredients may separate over time.
By following these steps and tips, you’ll have golden, delicious chicken zucchini patties that are sure to impress. Perfect for meal prepping or a quick, healthy dinner, these patties are packed with flavor and nutrition!