If you’re craving a dish that combines juicy chicken, gooey mozzarella, and a bright hint of citrus, the Crispy Chicken Patties with Mozzarella and Lemon Zest Recipe is an absolute winner. These golden patties deliver a perfect crunch on the outside with a tender, flavorful center that comes from the fresh lemon zest and creamy mozzarella. Whether it’s for a cozy weeknight dinner or an impressive appetizer for friends, this recipe feels like a warm hug on a plate and is surprisingly simple to prepare.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Crispy Chicken Patties with Mozzarella and Lemon Zest Recipe calls for straightforward ingredients that each play a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Every item from the shredded chicken to the zingy lemon zest helps create patties that are both moist and crispy, while the parsley adds a fresh color pop and herbaceous note.
- 16 ounces shredded chicken: The hearty base providing tender, juicy protein for the patties.
- 2 large eggs: Essential for binding all ingredients together into perfect patties.
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise: Adds richness and moisture, keeping the patties succulent.
- 1/4 cup flour: Helps stabilize the mixture and aids in crisping during frying.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped: Offers a burst of fresh flavor and vibrant green flecks.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Brings out all the savory notes and balances the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick of warmth without overpowering the dish.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: The star ingredient that provides a lively, citrusy brightness.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts beautifully inside, giving each bite a creamy surprise.
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs: Creates that irresistible golden crispiness on the outside.
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: For frying, delivering that perfectly crunchy exterior.
How to Make Crispy Chicken Patties with Mozzarella and Lemon Zest Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by combining the shredded chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, parsley, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and mozzarella cheese in a large bowl. Mixing these together thoroughly ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and has a nice, cohesive texture. The lemon zest really wakes up this mixture, giving a fresh aroma that teases the taste buds.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Grab about 2 ounces of the mixture and form it into a round patty roughly 3 inches across and about 1 inch thick. This size helps the patties cook evenly and stay juicy inside. Repeat until all the mix is formed into beautiful, uniform cakes that are ready for the next step.
Step 3: Coat with Panko Breadcrumbs
Pour the panko breadcrumbs into a shallow dish and gently press each patty into the crumbs on both sides. This coating is going to give you that signature crisp and crunch that makes these patties so irresistible. Be sure not to press too hard—you want a nice, light crust that stays intact during cooking.
Step 4: Fry Until Golden and Crispy
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side. This slow but steady frying is key to developing a golden brown exterior that crackles when you bite into it, while the inside stays moist and packed with gooey mozzarella and fresh lemon zest.
Step 5: Drain and Serve
After frying, transfer the patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Serve the crispy chicken patties warm, ideally with a wedge of lemon to squeeze on top. That final squeeze adds a fresh brightness that complements the cheese perfectly.
How to Serve Crispy Chicken Patties with Mozzarella and Lemon Zest Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkling of fresh parsley or a few extra twists of lemon zest give this dish an inviting look and enhance its lively flavors. A dollop of garlic aioli or a light drizzle of ranch dressing can also add a creamy contrast that pairs beautifully with the crispy texture.
Side Dishes
For sides, think fresh and light to balance the richness of the patties. A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables, or even some creamy mashed potatoes work wonders. If you want to keep things casual, try serving with sweet potato fries or a tangy coleslaw for that satisfying crunch.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to get playful, serve these patties as sliders tucked into toasted buns with fresh lettuce, tomato, and a swipe of pesto mayo. They also make fantastic filling for wraps or pita pockets alongside crunchy pickles and cooling tzatziki. The versatility of this Crispy Chicken Patties with Mozzarella and Lemon Zest Recipe lets you tailor it perfectly to your mood and guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover patties, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. They retain their flavor well but are best enjoyed fresh for maximum crispiness.
Freezing
You can freeze these chicken patties by placing them on a baking sheet, freezing until firm, then transferring to a zip-top bag or container. Frozen patties keep well for up to 2 months, making them a convenient meal option to pull out on busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, avoid microwaving if you want to keep that satisfying crunch. Instead, bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 10 minutes or until heated through and crispy again. A quick pan-fry in a little oil also works beautifully to refresh the crisp exterior.
FAQs
Can I use different cheese instead of mozzarella?
Absolutely! While mozzarella gives a mild, stretchy melt, you can swap in cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix of cheeses for more intense flavor. Just keep in mind some cheeses melt differently and might affect texture slightly.
Is it necessary to use panko breadcrumbs?
Panko breadcrumbs are preferred for their light and airy crunch, but you can use regular breadcrumbs if needed. Just expect a slightly denser crust compared to panko.
Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
You can bake the patties in the oven for a healthier twist. Place them on a greased baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
What herbs work well in this recipe?
Fresh parsley is a lovely choice, but you can also experiment with basil, chives, or cilantro for different flavor profiles. Each brings its own unique freshness that complements the lemon zest beautifully.
How do I make sure the patties don’t fall apart while cooking?
Make sure your mixture is well combined and not too wet. Using eggs and mayo provides excellent binding, and coating the patties in panko helps hold them together. Handle them gently while frying to keep the shape intact.
Final Thoughts
This Crispy Chicken Patties with Mozzarella and Lemon Zest Recipe is truly a keeper. It captures all the joyful elements of comfort food with a fresh, zesty twist that keeps things exciting. Whether you’re cooking just for yourself or sharing with friends and family, these patties offer a simple but wonderful way to bring a bit of sunshine to your table. Give it a try—you’ll love how easy it comes together and the amazing flavors that unfold with each bite!
Print
Crispy Chicken Patties with Mozzarella and Lemon Zest Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4.4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These crispy chicken patties combine shredded chicken, cheese, fresh parsley, and zesty lemon for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Coated with crunchy panko breadcrumbs and pan-fried to golden perfection, they make a perfect appetizer or main dish served warm with a lemon wedge.
Ingredients
Chicken Patty Mixture
- 16 ounces shredded chicken
- 2 large eggs
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Coating and Cooking
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (for frying)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix shredded chicken, eggs, mayonnaise, flour, parsley, salt, pepper, lemon zest, and mozzarella cheese until fully incorporated into a cohesive mixture.
- Shape Patties: Take approximately 2 ounces of the mixture and form each into a patty roughly 3 inches in diameter and 1 inch thick. Repeat until all mixture is shaped.
- Coat with Breadcrumbs: Spread panko breadcrumbs on a shallow dish. Dredge each chicken patty in the panko, pressing gently to ensure the crumbs stick well for a crunchy exterior.
- Pan Fry Patties: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
- Drain and Serve: Remove the cooked chicken patties from the skillet and place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm, optionally with a wedge of lemon for added zest.
Notes
- Make sure the oil is hot enough before frying to get a crispy crust without absorbing too much oil.
- Use fresh parsley and lemon zest to brighten the flavor profile.
- These patties can be served with a side salad or dipped in your favorite sauce, such as aioli or spicy mayo.
- For a gluten-free version, substitute flour and panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated for 2 days and reheated in a skillet or oven.
