Introduction and Origin
These Cheesy Chicken Patties are soft, juicy, and full of flavor—perfectly crisp on the outside and tender on the inside. Passed down through home kitchens and Sunday dinners, they capture the essence of simple, nourishing food that pleases every generation. They’re a fusion of old-fashioned chicken croquettes and modern cheesy fritters, often made with pantry staples and leftovers, making them both resourceful and irresistible.
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Cultural Significance
These patties are more than just a dish—they’re a memory in the making. In many cultures, fried or pan-cooked patties represent comfort, community, and warmth. From American chicken croquettes to Eastern European kotlety to Middle Eastern chicken kebbeh, versions of this dish have brought families together for generations. Their universal appeal lies in the balance between crispiness and cheesy comfort.
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Ingredients Quantity
(Makes 10–12 patties)
2 cups cooked chicken breast, finely chopped or shredded
1 cup shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese
2 large eggs
1/4 cup mayonnaise or sour cream (for moisture)
1/3 cup all-purpose flour (or breadcrumbs)
1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives, finely chopped
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper to taste
1–2 tablespoons vegetable oil or butter (for frying)
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Optional Additions
1/4 cup grated Parmesan
1/2 cup corn kernels or grated zucchini (well-drained)
A dash of paprika or cayenne for heat
Chopped green onions or red bell peppers for color and crunch
Serve with: ranch, ketchup, honey mustard, or garlic dip
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Tips for Success
Don’t overmix—keep the mixture just combined for tender patties.
Use cooked chicken that’s not too moist or oily.
Let mixture chill for 15 minutes to help them hold shape.
Flatten the patties slightly so they cook evenly.
Drain on a paper towel after frying to retain crispiness.
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Instructions
1. In a large bowl, mix together chopped chicken, cheese, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, herbs, and seasonings.
2. Stir until just combined. Chill for 15–20 minutes if the mixture feels loose.
3. Heat a skillet over medium heat with oil or butter.
4. Scoop about 2 tablespoons of the mixture and form into patties. Flatten slightly.
5. Fry for 3–4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through.
6. Drain on paper towels. Serve hot with dipping sauce or a side salad.
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Description
Golden-brown on the outside and irresistibly gooey on the inside, these chicken patties are the very definition of “moreish.” The cheese melts into the chicken, creating a juicy, savory center with a crispy crust. With each bite, the nostalgic flavor and family-table joy shine through.
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Nutritional Information (per patty, approx.)
Calories: ~130–150
Protein: ~11g
Fat: ~9g
Carbs: ~4g
Sugar: <1g Sodium: ~200mg Values vary with additions and cooking method. --- Conclusion and Recommendation This dish is guaranteed to win hearts at the table. Whether served as an after-school snack, at a picnic, or during Sunday supper, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser. The fact that "all the grandkids wanted seconds and grandpa ate three" says it all—it’s simple food made with love that brings people together. --- Embracing Healthful Indulgence Want to make this recipe even more wholesome? Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo Swap flour for oat flour or almond flour Add finely grated carrots or spinach for extra nutrients Bake or air-fry instead of pan-frying Use low-fat cheese or part-skim mozzarella