If you’re looking for a flavorful, satisfying meal that comes together quickly and feels like a loving hug on a plate, this Easy Chicken Patties with Lemon and Dill Recipe is exactly what you need. These patties boast a crispy golden crust with a tender, juicy center infused with fresh dill and bright lemon zest, creating a perfect balance of herbaceous aroma and citrusy zing. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just treating yourself, these chicken patties bring comfort and a touch of elegance to your table in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses wonderfully simple ingredients that each play a vital role in achieving that perfect texture, flavor, and color. From juicy shredded chicken to zesty lemon and fragrant fresh dill, every ingredient complements the others beautifully.
- 4 cups shredded chicken: Using cooked chicken breasts keeps the patties tender and protein-packed.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for binding the patties so they hold together nicely.
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise: Adds moisture and richness without overwhelming flavors.
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour: Helps create a light batter base for the patties.
- 3 Tbsp fresh dill: Brings a bright, herbal freshness that pairs perfectly with lemon.
- 3/4 tsp salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the mix.
- 1/8 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tsp lemon zest: Offers citrusy brightness that lifts every bite.
- 1 1/3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts into the patty for gooey, savory goodness.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: Used for sautéing to achieve that irresistible golden crust.
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs: Coats the patties to ensure a crisp, crunchy exterior.
How to Make Easy Chicken Patties with Lemon and Dill Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Batter
Start by whisking together the eggs, mayonnaise, flour, fresh dill, salt, black pepper, and lemon zest in a large bowl. This mixture creates the flavorful, binding base that will hold your patties together while infusing them with the bright, herby notes that make this recipe stand out.
Step 2: Combine Chicken and Cheese
Add the shredded chicken and shredded mozzarella cheese to the bowl with the batter. Stir everything thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated. The mozzarella will add a luscious meltiness on the inside, making each patty ooze with cheesy goodness once cooked.
Step 3: Chill and Shape the Patties
Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes. This resting step is crucial for helping the mixture firm up, which makes forming perfect patties easier and keeps them from falling apart during cooking. Use a trigger release ice cream scoop or tablespoon to portion out 12 to 15 patties, shaping each to about half an inch thick. Then, dip both sides into Panko bread crumbs to coat evenly—this will give you that beautifully crunchy crust everyone loves.
Step 4: Sauté to Golden Perfection
Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat, adding 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Cook half the patties for 3 to 4 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy, adding more oil as needed. Repeat with the remaining patties. The olive oil gently fries the patties, creating a crispy exterior while locking in juiciness.
Step 5: Final Touch and Serve
Once the patties are off the heat, sprinkle them with a little extra salt and squeeze fresh lemon juice over the top. This simple finishing step brightens the flavors and adds a zingy, fresh contrast to the savory, cheesy patties. Serve them warm and watch them disappear!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Patties with Lemon and Dill Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh lemon wedges are a perfect garnish to enhance the lemon zest within the patties and add additional brightness on the plate. A few sprigs of fresh dill or parsley can also add a pop of color and fresh herbal aroma, inviting everyone to dig in.
Side Dishes
These patties pair beautifully with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans make for colorful, nutritious sides. For a heartier meal, creamy mashed potatoes or fluffy rice pilaf complement the flavors wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these chicken patties on slider buns with a smear of garlic aioli and fresh lettuce for a delightful mini sandwich. Alternatively, pile them atop a bed of mixed greens with a tangy dressing for a lovely chicken salad platter. These presentation ideas make the Easy Chicken Patties with Lemon and Dill Recipe versatile enough for casual dinners or more formal gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep them crisp, place a paper towel inside the container to absorb extra moisture.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in the freezer until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable freezer bag and keep for up to 2 months. This is a fantastic way to have quick meals ready anytime you need.
Reheating
To reheat, place the patties on a baking sheet and warm them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes, or until heated through. This method helps maintain their crisp crust. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture just right.
FAQs
Can I use different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella offers a great melt and mild flavor, you can try cheddar for a sharper taste or a blend of cheeses to customize your patties. Just be sure to use a cheese that melts well.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend and replace Panko bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This way, you keep all the texture and flavor without gluten.
Is it possible to bake the patties instead of pan-frying?
You can bake them! Preheat your oven to 400°F, place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until golden and cooked throughout.
How do I ensure the patties do not fall apart during cooking?
Refrigerating the mixture before shaping is key. Also, using the right amount of binder ingredients like eggs, mayo, and flour will help hold everything together. Be gentle when flipping them in the pan to keep their shape intact.
Can leftover patties be served cold?
While they’re tastiest warm, leftover patties can be enjoyed cold as a quick snack or in sandwiches. Their flavor holds up well chilled, making them versatile for different meal times.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Patties with Lemon and Dill Recipe is one of those rare dishes that feels both special and incredibly approachable. Whether you’re whipping them up for a busy weeknight or impressing guests with minimal effort, these patties bring a burst of bright flavor and comforting texture that never disappoints. Give them a try – your taste buds will thank you!
Print
Easy Chicken Patties with Lemon and Dill Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 14 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These easy Chicken Patties (Chicken Cakes) are a delicious and quick meal made with shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, fresh herbs, and lemon zest, all coated in crispy Panko breadcrumbs and pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, they offer a flavorful twist on classic chicken cakes with a tender and cheesy interior and a crunchy exterior.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 4 cups shredded chicken (from 2 large chicken breasts, approximately 16 oz by weight)
- 2 large eggs
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
- 3 Tbsp fresh dill (finely chopped) or 1 Tbsp parsley
- 3/4 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/8 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 1/3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
Coating and Cooking
- 1 cup Panko bread crumbs
- 2 Tbsp olive oil (divided for sautéing)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the batter: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the 2 eggs, 1/3 cup mayonnaise, 1/3 cup all-purpose flour, 3 Tbsp finely chopped dill, 1/2 tsp salt, 1/8 tsp black pepper, and 1 tsp lemon zest until fully combined and smooth.
- Combine chicken and cheese: Add the shredded chicken and 1 1/3 cups shredded mozzarella cheese to the batter. Stir thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated in the mixture.
- Chill the mixture: Cover the bowl and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to help with binding and make it easier to form patties.
- Form patties and coat: Using a trigger release ice cream scoop, divide the chilled mixture into 12 to 15 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty approximately 1/2 inch thick. Dip both sides of each patty evenly into Panko bread crumbs to coat.
- Pan-fry the patties: Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add 1 Tbsp olive oil to the pan and place half the patties in it. Sauté for 3 to 4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through, adding more oil as needed to saute the remaining patties.
- Season and serve: Once cooked, transfer the patties off the heat. Immediately sprinkle with a pinch of salt and squeeze fresh lemon juice from wedges over them. Serve the patties warm.
Notes
- Refrigeration of the mixture is key for easier handling and to ensure patties hold their shape during cooking.
- Using fresh dill adds a bright and aromatic flavor, but parsley can be substituted if preferred.
- Panko crumbs provide a lighter, crispier coating compared to regular breadcrumbs.
- Adjust salt to taste, especially if the mozzarella or mayonnaise used is already salted.
- Serve with lemon wedges for an added fresh citrus bite.
