Irresistible Chicken Patties with Mozzarella

Prep Time: 20 minutes | Cook Time: 20 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Skill Level: Easy | Intensity: Low Effort, High Reward
Servings: 4 (2 patties per serving) | Yield: 8 patties

Crispy on the outside, juicy and bursting with melted mozzarella on the inside—these chicken patties are the ultimate weeknight hero and crowd-pleasing appetizer. They deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal fuss, making them perfect for a quick family dinner, meal prep, or game day snacks. The secret lies in the simple blend of spices and the gooey cheese center that makes every bite irresistible.

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Ingredients

For the Patties:

• 1 lb (450g) ground chicken (preferably a mix of breast and thigh for moisture)

• 1 cup (115g) shredded low-moisture mozzarella cheese, plus 8 small cubes for filling

• ⅓ cup (35g) finely grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup (25g) Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg, lightly beaten

• 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh parsley

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika

• ½ teaspoon dried oregano

• ½ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

• 2 tablespoons olive oil, for frying

For Serving (Optional):

• Marinara sauce, warmed

• Lemon wedges

• Fresh basil or parsley

• Burger buns or slider rolls

• Mixed green salad

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Equipment

• Large mixing bowl

• Plate or small baking sheet

• Large non-stick or cast-iron skillet

• Internal-read thermometer (recommended)

• Paper towel-lined plate

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Instructions

Step 1: Mix the Patty Base

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded mozzarella, Parmesan, breadcrumbs, egg, parsley, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a fork to mix just until all ingredients are incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the patties dense.

Step 2: Form and Fill the Patties

Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Take one portion and flatten it slightly in your palm. Place one cube of mozzarella in the center. Gently fold the meat mixture around the cheese, sealing it completely to form a puck-shaped patty about ¾-inch thick. Ensure the cheese is fully enclosed to prevent leakage during cooking. Repeat with the remaining portions. Place the formed patties on a plate.

Step 3: Pan-Fry to Perfection

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.

2. Carefully add the patties, leaving about an inch of space between them (cook in batches if necessary to avoid crowding).

3. Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until deeply golden brown and crispy.

4. Crucial Step: Check for doneness. The internal temperature should register 165°F (74°C) on an instant-read thermometer, and the juices should run clear. The cheese inside will be gloriously melted.

Step 4: Rest and Serve

Transfer the cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil for a minute. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving—this allows the juices to redistribute and prevents scalding from the molten cheese.

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Serving Suggestions

• Classic Italian: Serve over a bed of spaghetti or zucchini noodles with a generous ladle of warm marinara sauce and a sprinkle of fresh basil.

• As a Sandwich: Pile them onto toasted brioche buns with lettuce, tomato, and a swipe of garlic aioli.

• Appetizer Style: Skewer mini slider-sized patties with a toothpick and serve with marinara for dipping.

• With Greens: Pair with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a lighter meal.

Chef’s Notes & Tips

• Make-Ahead: Form the patties and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can enhance flavor.

• Baking Option: For a lighter version, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly spray with oil, and bake for 18-22 minutes, flipping halfway.

• Cheese Swap: Try using a blend of mozzarella and provolone, or use a small piece of string cheese for a fun pull-apart effect.

• Avoiding Leaks: Ensure your mozzarella cubes are cold and your seal is tight. A small breach is okay—it creates deliciously crispy cheese “feet”!

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Nutrition Information

(Per serving of 2 patties, calculated without optional sides)