Looking for a delicious, quick meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual lunches? Say hello to air fryer frozen chicken patties! These crispy delights are a healthier alternative to deep-frying and couldn’t be easier to prepare. Whether you’re a pro in the kitchen or new to air frying, we’ll guide you every step of the way to making the ultimate crispy chicken sandwich.
This post covers everything you need to know, from cooking tips to serving suggestions, so you can enjoy chicken patties that are perfectly golden brown and delicious every time.
Why Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Patties Are a Family Favorite
Air fryer frozen chicken patties are more than just a last-minute dinner option. Here’s why they’ve become a family favorite:
- Quick and Easy: No thawing or marinating required. Simply grab the patties and pop them into your air fryer.
- Crispy and Delicious: The air fryer gives you that golden brown, crispy exterior without using lots of oil.
- Versatile: From crispy chicken sandwiches to wraps or salads, frozen chicken patties can be transformed into countless meals.
- Healthy Option: Air frying uses less oil than traditional frying, making it a lighter option that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Essential Ingredients for Cooking Chicken Patties
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Frozen Chicken Patties – Any brand of store-bought frozen chicken patties will work, such as Foster Farms or Tyson.
- Cooking Spray – Helps ensure even crisping and prevents sticking in the air fryer basket.
- Optional Toppings and Buns – Think burger buns, cheddar cheese, lettuce, tomato, mayo, BBQ sauce, or your favorite sauce.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking in the Air Fryer
Preheating the Air Fryer
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3-5 minutes. Preheating helps ensure even cooking and speeds up the process.
Cooking Times for Different Brands of Frozen Patties
Lay the frozen chicken patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid stacking to prevent uneven cooking. Depending on the brand, the cooking time usually ranges from 10-12 minutes.
Cooking time guideline by brand:
- Foster Farms patties: 10-12 minutes
- Tyson patties: 12-14 minutes
- Other brands or sizes may vary by a minute or two.
Flip chicken patties halfway through cooking for even browning.
Checking for Doneness
Using a meat thermometer, ensure the internal temperature of the patties reaches 165°F (74°C). This guarantees they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.
Tips for Achieving Crispy and Delicious Patties
- Use Cooking Spray: A light spray of neutral cooking oil enhances crispiness.
- Flip Carefully: Always flip the patties halfway through cooking to avoid uneven results.
- Check the Time: Begin checking around the 10-minute mark to avoid overcooking.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Patties
Transform your chicken patties into a meal with these ideas:
Ideas for Toppings
- Classic combo: Lettuce, tomato, and mayo on a toasted bun.
- Tangy twist: Add a slice of pepper jack cheese and tangy BBQ sauce.
- Gourmet touch: Top with honey mustard, green leaf lettuce, and a slice of Colby jack cheese.
Sides to Complement Your Meal
Pair your air fryer chicken patties with these tasty options:
- Sweet potato fries
- Fresh garden salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Potato wedges or coleslaw
- A side of dipping sauce like ranch or honey mustard
Common Questions About Cooking Frozen Patties
How to Reheat Leftover Chicken Patties
To reheat leftover chicken patties, place them in the air fryer at 375°F for 4-5 minutes. This restores their crispy texture without drying them out.
Can You Cook Fresh Chicken Patties in the Air Fryer?
Yes! Fresh chicken patties work beautifully in the air fryer. Just be sure to check their internal temperature to reach 165°F, and adjust the cooking time (usually about 12-15 minutes for fresh patties).
Storing Leftovers Properly
Keep leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To freeze them, wrap each patty with wax paper or parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Information and Health Benefits
Frozen chicken patties are an excellent source of lean protein, typically made with chicken breast or breaded chicken cutlets. Cooking them in your air fryer reduces excess oils, making them a healthier alternative to traditional deep frying.
Whether you enjoy your patty as part of a crispy chicken sandwich or as a protein-packed addition to salads, they’re a versatile and nourishing choice that fits well into many diets.
Enjoy the Crispiest Chicken Patties Today
Air fryer frozen chicken patties are a delicious, quick meal that’s ideal for busy weeknights or casual family lunches. With just a few minutes of cooking time, you can whip up crispy, golden brown patties that everyone will love. Experiment with toppings, try fun serving ideas, and elevate this humble frozen food into a restaurant-worthy dish.
If you’re ready for more air fryer recipes and tips, check out our collection of easy air fryer ideas or download our free printable recipe card for Air Fryer Frozen Chicken Patties!
Happy air frying!
FAQs
What is the best brand of frozen chicken patties?
Brands like Foster Farms, Tyson, and Perdue are popular choices for frozen chicken patties. They offer consistent quality and great flavor.
Can you air fry chicken patties from frozen?
Absolutely! Air frying is one of the easiest and most efficient ways to cook frozen chicken patties. No thawing needed—just pop them in the air fryer and enjoy crispy, delicious patties in minutes.