If you’re searching for a quick, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful snack or meal idea, this Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe is about to become your new best friend. Using simple pantry staples like canned chicken, cheese, and a few seasonings, you can whip up crispy and golden patties in under 20 minutes. The air fryer lends the perfect texture—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—making these patties a fantastic convenience food that still feels homemade and special. Whether you’re short on time or just craving something tasty and protein-packed, this recipe invites you to get creative and enjoy something deliciously effortless.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these ingredients is a breeze, yet each plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and aroma. From the savory canned chicken to the melty cheese, it’s the harmonious mix of these simple elements that makes this dish stand out.
- Canned chicken: This is the star protein, bringing convenience and shredded tenderness perfect for patties.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to hold everything together, giving the patties their shape and structure.
- Shredded cheese: Adds moisture, richness, and a delightful melty bite inside each patty.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors, making each bite more satisfying.
- Pepper: Brings a subtle heat and depth to the seasoning.
- Garlic powder: Infuses a mild, aromatic punch that complements the chicken wonderfully.
- Onion powder: Adds a sweet, mellow note to balance the savory ingredients.
How to Make Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by draining your canned chicken thoroughly, then shred it if needed. In a mixing bowl, toss together the chicken, egg, shredded cheese, and all your seasonings—salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix them well until everything is evenly incorporated, creating a sticky yet manageable mixture perfect for shaping.
Step 2: Shape Into Patties
Using your hands or a spoon, form the mixture into evenly sized patties. You’ll want them thick enough to hold together but not so large that they won’t cook evenly. Aim for about 3 inches in diameter and roughly half an inch thick, which gives you that ideal golden crust and melty inside.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Preheating your air fryer to 400°F ensures that your patties start cooking immediately, which helps lock in moisture and achieve a crispy exterior. This step is simple but crucial for the perfect texture.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Place the patties carefully into the air fryer basket, avoiding overcrowding so the hot air can circulate freely around each one. Cook the patties for 7 minutes, then flip them carefully and continue cooking for another 5 minutes. Look for a golden brown color and a slightly crispy texture on each side to know they’re done.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Once cooked, let the patties cool for a minute or two—they’re hot and delicious straight away. This Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe is ready to brighten up any meal or snack time with its crispy edges and tender, flavorful center.
How to Serve Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle your patties with fresh chopped herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a burst of color and a fresh flavor lift. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of spicy sriracha mayo also pairs perfectly, bringing creaminess and a kick that elevates every bite.
Side Dishes
These patties shine next to crisp salads, roasted vegetables, or fluffy mashed potatoes. For a lighter touch, serve them alongside a zesty coleslaw or steamed green beans. The versatility means you can create a whole plate that suits your mood, from light and bright to warm and comforting.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your patties into sliders by popping them into mini buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce. Alternatively, crumble them over a bed of greens for a protein boost in salads or serve them on top of a grain bowl for a complete and satisfying meal. The simplicity of this Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe invites endless presentation ideas!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover patties in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This way, you have a ready-to-eat protein-packed snack or meal component waiting for you.
Freezing
If you want to keep these patties on hand longer, freeze them on a baking sheet first to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will maintain best quality for up to 2 months, making them an excellent freezer-friendly option.
Reheating
Reheat your patties in the air fryer or oven to restore their crispiness. Simply warm at 350°F for 5-7 minutes until heated through and crispy again, avoiding the microwave when possible to maintain texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of canned chicken?
Absolutely! If you have cooked, shredded chicken on hand, it makes a great substitute. Just adjust seasonings as fresh chicken might be less salty than canned.
What cheese works best for these patties?
Cheddar or mozzarella are great choices—they melt beautifully and add flavor without overpowering the chicken’s taste. Feel free to experiment with your favorite shredded cheese.
Can I add other seasonings or herbs?
Yes! Feel free to personalize the recipes with paprika, cayenne, fresh herbs, or even a touch of lemon zest for extra brightness. The recipe is very forgiving and flexible.
Do I have to use an air fryer?
While the air fryer gives a perfectly crisp texture quickly, you can also pan-fry or bake the patties. Baking at 400°F on a greased sheet for 15-20 minutes will work well, flipping halfway through.
How do I know when the patties are cooked through?
They should be golden brown and firm on the outside, with no raw egg smell. The internal temperature should reach 165°F for safety if you’re concerned, especially when using fresh chicken.
Final Thoughts
This Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe is a total game changer for busy days and simple meals that still feel full of love and flavor. It’s quick, customizable, and downright delicious. Once you try it, you’ll wonder why it wasn’t always part of your kitchen routine. Grab your ingredients and air fryer and get ready to enjoy golden, crispy patties that the whole family will adore!
Print
Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 17 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Air Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties that are crispy on the outside and tender inside. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner using simple pantry ingredients and cooked to perfection in an air fryer.
Ingredients
Chicken Patty Ingredients
- 1 can of chicken (drained and shredded)
- 1 egg
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese
- Salt, to taste
- Pepper, to taste
- Garlic powder, to taste
- Onion powder, to taste
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the canned chicken, egg, shredded cheese, and seasonings including salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Mix Well: Thoroughly mix all the ingredients until they are evenly combined into a cohesive mixture suitable for shaping.
- Shape Patties: Form the mixture into evenly sized patties, ensuring they hold together well for cooking.
- Preheat Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (204°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for cooking the patties evenly and crispy.
- Cook First Side: Place the patties carefully in the air fryer basket and cook for 7 minutes, allowing the bottom side to get golden brown and set.
- Flip and Cook Second Side: Flip the patties over and cook for an additional 5 minutes until the patties are crispy and fully cooked through.
- Serve: Remove from the air fryer, serve hot, and enjoy these tasty and protein-packed chicken patties.
Notes
- You can add herbs like parsley or cilantro for extra flavor.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, especially the salt and pepper.
- Use shredded cheese of your choice such as cheddar or mozzarella.
- Make sure patties are not too thick to ensure even cooking.
- Leftover patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
