When it comes to quick, easy, and delicious meals, air fryer frozen chicken patties rise to the occasion every time. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or whipping up a crispy chicken sandwich for lunch, using an air fryer is a game-changer.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about cooking frozen chicken patties in an air fryer—from the benefits of air frying to step-by-step instructions, tips for extra crispiness, and even serving suggestions to create the perfect chicken patty dish.
How the Air Fryer Works

An air fryer uses rapid hot air circulation to cook food, working as a countertop convection oven. Its powerful fan distributes heat evenly, ensuring your frozen chicken patties are perfectly crispy on the outside while staying moist and juicy inside.
Air fryers also require little to no cooking oil, making them a much healthier alternative to traditional deep frying. Not only are they quick and convenient, but they’re also perfect for preparing a variety of frozen foods.
Benefits of Cooking Frozen Chicken Patties in an Air Fryer
Air frying frozen chicken patties has several advantages, including these standout benefits:
- Time-Saving
The air fryer heats up quickly and cooks frozen patties in just 10–12 minutes—no need to thaw or pre-cook.
- Healthier Alternative
Skip the extra oil! Air fryers deliver all the crispiness of deep frying with significantly less fat and calories.
- Retains Flavor and Moisture
The air fryer ensures your chicken patties stay flavorful and juicy while creating that crave-worthy golden-brown crust.
Essential Ingredients for Air Frying Chicken Patties
Before you begin, gather these simple ingredients and tools for delicious chicken patties every time:
- Frozen Chicken Patties (store-bought or homemade)
- Cooking Spray (optional for added crispiness)
- Seasonings or Spices (e.g., garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper – optional)
- Air fryer basket or tray
You’ll also need hamburger buns and your favorite toppings if you’re making chicken burgers!
Air Fryer Chicken Patties Recipe (Step-by-Step)

Follow these easy steps to cook crispy, golden-brown chicken patties in an air fryer.
1. Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3–5 minutes. Preheating ensures even cooking and optimal crispiness.
2. Arrange the Frozen Patties
Place the frozen chicken patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Avoid overcrowding, as this can affect airflow and the cooking process.
3. Set the Temperature and Timer
Air fry the patties at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, flipping them halfway through.
4. Check for Doneness
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the chicken patties has reached 165°F (74°C). This step ensures they’re fully cooked and safe to eat.
5. Rest and Serve
Once done, allow the patties to rest for 2–3 minutes to lock in the juices. Then, assemble your sandwiches or serve them as is!
Tips for Achieving Crispy and Flavorful Patties
For even more delicious results, try these expert tips:
- Add Seasoning
Sprinkle some garlic powder, onion powder, or paprika on your patties before cooking for a flavor boost.
- Use Cooking Spray
Lightly spray the patties with neutral cooking oil to achieve extra crispiness.
- Avoid Overcrowding
Leave enough space around each patty in the basket so the air can circulate properly.
Variations for Chicken Patty Sandwiches
Take your air fryer chicken patties to the next level with these creative sandwich combinations:
- Toppings: Add green leaf lettuce, fresh tomatoes, crispy bacon, or a slice of creamy cheese (like cheddar or pepper jack).
- Bread Options: Use brioche buns, whole wheat buns, or even wrap your patties in butter lettuce for a low-carb option.
- Sauces: Try your favorite dipping sauces like BBQ sauce, honey mustard, or peanut sauce for added flavor.
Serving Suggestions for Chicken Patties
Air fryer chicken patties pair well with a variety of sides, including crispy french fries, a fresh garden salad, or roasted vegetables. Use them as a protein-packed topping in salads or cut them into strips for wraps and tacos.
Storing and Reheating Leftover Patties
Have extras? Store leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze them for longer storage. To reheat, air fry at 350°F for 4–5 minutes to restore their crispiness.
FAQs
Can I air fry homemade chicken patties?
Absolutely! Just be sure to freeze them beforehand to maintain their shape during cooking.
Do I need to thaw frozen chicken patties before air frying?
Nope! Air fryers are perfect for cooking frozen food directly—saving both time and effort.
My patties came out soggy. What went wrong?
Ensure you’re not overcrowding the air fryer basket and preheat the air fryer to get a crispy exterior. Adding a light spray of cooking oil can also help.
Additional Air Fryer Recipes with Frozen Ingredients
Love your air fryer? Here are more recipes to try with frozen foods:
- Air Fryer Chicken Nuggets
- Air Fryer Chicken Wings
- Air Fryer Parmesan Crusted Chicken
Enjoy Every Bite of Your Air Fryer Chicken Patties
Cooking frozen chicken patties in an air fryer is a quick, easy way to enjoy a delicious meal without any hassle. With just a few minutes of cooking time and some simple ingredients, you can create the ultimate crispy chicken sandwich or a light, flavorful main dish.
Try experimenting with different toppings and seasonings to make the recipe your own—and don’t forget to share your creations with family and friends.
Happy air frying!