Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe
If there’s a recipe that feels like a well-kept kitchen secret, it’s Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties. These crispy, golden treats are outrageously easy to make and completely satisfying, with a savory center that’s juicy and packed with flavor in every bite. Using pantry staples, they turn humble canned chicken into a weeknight hero or an anytime protein snack with a guaranteed crowd-pleasing crunch. Whether you’re craving a fuss-free main or searching for a new go-to party appetizer, Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties are about to land a permanent spot in your recipe rotation—they’re simply that delightful!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the beauty of simple, dependable ingredients coming together for a wildly delicious result! Each one plays a crucial role in creating chicken patties that hold together, get beautifully crispy in the air fryer, and deliver on flavor and texture.
- Canned chicken breast: Drained and flaked, this is the star protein and serves as a juicy, sturdy base for perfect patties.
- Breadcrumbs (regular or panko): Add essential crunch and help hold everything together; panko gives a touch more crispiness!
- Grated Parmesan cheese: Lends a hit of umami, saltiness, and a golden crust as the patties cook.
- Large egg: Acts as a binding agent, ensuring your patties don’t fall apart when picked up or bitten into.
- Mayonnaise: Keeps the patties moist and adds a subtle richness that balances all the savory notes.
- Dijon mustard: Offers a gentle tang and a little flavor spark that takes the patties from good to fantastic.
- Garlic powder: Infuses every bite with mellow, aromatic flavor—no need for fresh chopping!
- Onion powder: Layered flavor without the bite or extra prep, helping round out the savoriness.
- Chopped parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh herby brightness—totally optional but always welcome.
- Salt and black pepper: For perfectly seasoned patties—taste and adjust to your liking.
- Nonstick spray for air fryer: Crucial for preventing sticking and ensuring that irresistible crispy surface.
How to Make Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties
Step 1: Prepare Your Patty Mixture
Start by grabbing a spacious mixing bowl and toss in your drained, flaked canned chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley if you’re using it, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Use a big spoon or clean hands to mix everything together just until combined—don’t overdo it! You’re aiming for a mixture that holds together but isn’t mushy.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
With the mixture ready, start forming your patties. Scoop up a small handful and gently shape it into a patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. You should end up with 6 to 8 patties, depending on how generous you’re feeling. Make sure they’re evenly shaped so they cook at the same rate and get that perfect golden color.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare Your Air Fryer
Turn your air fryer to 375°F and give it a quick three-minute preheat; this step sets you up for maximum crispness right out the gate. Before adding the patties, spray the air fryer basket lightly with nonstick spray so nothing sticks and the patties release easily once crisped.
Step 4: Air Fry the Patties
Arrange the patties in a single layer inside the basket—they need a little breathing room so that hot air can work its crispy magic on all sides. If your air fryer is on the smaller side, cook them in batches. Air fry for 8 to 10 minutes, carefully flipping halfway through, until each patty turns delightfully golden and crunchy on the outside while staying tender inside.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Once the Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties are perfectly golden, remove them carefully (they’ll be hot!), and serve right away. Enjoy them on their own, dunked in your favorite dip, or even tucked into a fluffy bun for an impromptu chicken burger moment.
How to Serve Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of a fresh flourish! A scatter of chopped parsley or chives over your just-cooked Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties adds both color and a hint of garden-fresh flavor. For a touch of zest, a squeeze of lemon juice or a spoonful of creamy sauce on the side makes every bite pop.
Side Dishes
Pair your chicken patties with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or a light slaw for a balanced meal. Classic sides like sweet potato fries or simple steamed rice are also wonderful, making these patties versatile enough for casual meals or dinner parties alike.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to mix things up, try serving Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties slider-style on mini buns, sliced over a big salad bowl, or even tucked into a pita with crunchy lettuce and tomato. They also work beautifully as a protein-packed filling for wraps—just add your favorite veggies and a creamy sauce!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover patties will keep well for up to three days in an airtight container in the fridge. Let them cool completely before storing, and layer with parchment or wax paper if you’re stacking, so they retain their crispy edges and don’t stick together.
Freezing
Yes, Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties are freezer-friendly! Once they’ve cooled, flash-freeze them on a baking sheet for about an hour, then transfer to a zip-top bag or sealed container. They’ll keep their flavor and texture for up to two months—simply air fry straight from frozen for an easy snack or dinner anytime.
Reheating
To revive that just-cooked crispiness, pop your patties back in the air fryer at 350°F for a few minutes until heated through. This way, they stay crunchy outside and don’t get soggy like they might in the microwave. Quick, hot, and as good as new!
FAQs
Can I make Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties gluten-free?
Absolutely! Substitute the breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free variety, or use almond flour for a grain-free, low-carb twist. The patties will still be deliciously crispy.
What dipping sauces pair best with these patties?
These patties are endlessly dippable—try classic ranch, honey mustard, chipotle mayo, or even just a bright squeeze of lemon. The flavors are versatile, so let your cravings guide you!
Can I use leftover cooked chicken instead of canned?
Yes, shredded leftover chicken works just as well in place of canned chicken. Just be sure to shred or chop it finely so the patties hold together nicely and cook evenly in the air fryer.
How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
If your patties seem crumbly, double-check the ratio of wet to dry ingredients. Making sure the mixture is well combined (without over-mixing) and gently pressed together when formed helps them stay intact during cooking.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Certainly! You can mix and form the patties a few hours in advance and store them covered in the fridge until ready to air fry. This actually makes them firmer and easier to shape.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been searching for that magic recipe that’s quick, satisfies everyone, and makes the most of pantry staples, Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties are it! Trust me, one bite of these crispy, golden wonders, and you’ll be hooked. Give this recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so downright irresistible.
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Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 patties 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Air Fryer Canned Chicken Patties are a quick and delicious way to enjoy protein-packed snacks or a main course. Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, these patties are perfect for a simple meal. Using canned chicken makes this recipe convenient and budget-friendly.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 2 (12.5 oz) cans canned chicken breast (drained and flaked)
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (regular or panko)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Nonstick spray for air fryer
Instructions
- Prepare the Patty Mixture: In a large bowl, mix together the flaked canned chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, parsley (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 6–8 small patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F for 3 minutes. Lightly spray the basket with nonstick spray.
- Air Fry the Patties: Place the patties in a single layer in the basket (work in batches if needed). Air fry for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and crispy.
- Serve: Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or on a bun.
Notes
- You can substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a low-carb version.
- These patties freeze well—just reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Snack
- Method: Air Fryer
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (based on 8)
- Calories: 140
- Sugar: 0 g
- Sodium: 360 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 3 g
- Fiber: 0 g
- Protein: 14 g
- Cholesterol: 55 mg
