Chicken burgers have become a popular alternative to traditional beef burgers. The patty in a chicken burger is typically made from ground chicken meat, rather than beef. Chicken burgers can be a healthier option, as chicken tends to be lower in fat and calories than beef. But what exactly goes into making a chicken burger patty? There are a few key ingredients:
Ground Chicken
The main ingredient in a chicken burger patty is ground chicken meat. This is chicken that has been mechanically minced or chopped into small pieces. Both white and dark chicken meat is often used. Ground chicken provides the bulk of the protein and nutrients.
Binding Agents
To help hold the ground chicken together and give it a burger-like texture, binding agents are added. Typical binders used include:
- Breadcrumbs
- Eggs
- Milk or cream
- Flour
These help moisten the chicken mixture and bind the proteins together, so the patty holds its shape when cooked. Breadcrumbs are a very common binder used in chicken patties.
Seasonings
For flavor, various herbs and spices are used when making chicken burger patties:
- Salt
- Pepper
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Chili powder
- Parsley
- Oregano
- Basil
- Thyme
The combination of seasonings can vary widely depending on the recipe and flavors desired. Some chicken patties feature bold seasoning blends, while others may have just simple salt and pepper.
Fillers
Some chicken burger patties also contain filler ingredients to add bulk and stretch the chicken meat. Potential fillers include:
- Breadcrumbs
- Rice
- Vegetable protein
- Potato starch
- Wheat flour
Fillers allow the manufacturer to use less chicken meat in the patty. However, high-quality chicken burgers will contain minimal fillers.
Vegetables
For extra moisture and texture, finely chopped vegetables are sometimes mixed into chicken patties:
- Onions
- Bell peppers
- Mushrooms
- Carrots
- Celery
Vegetables add nutrients and fiber. Patties labeled as “garden veggie” may contain a blend of vegetables.
Oils
A small amount of oil, such as vegetable, olive or canola oil, helps keep the patty moist and adds fat for flavor. Chicken is fairly lean on its own, so the oil helps mimic the mouthfeel of higher fat beef burgers.
Pre-Formed vs Handmade Patties
Chicken burger patties fall into two categories:
- Pre-formed patties: These are shaped and formed by machines during manufacturing. They have a very uniform size and shape. Pre-formed patties are common among frozen chicken burger products.
- Handmade patties: These are manually shaped and pressed by hand, often fresh in a restaurant kitchen. Handmade patties tend to be less uniform but are perceived as more natural and homemade.
Both pre-formed and handmade patties use very similar chicken burger patty ingredients. The main difference is in the shaping process.
Nutrition Info
The nutrition content of chicken burger patties can vary based on the specific ingredients used. But in general, a 3.5 oz (100g) chicken burger patty contains:
- Calories: 165
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 4g
Compared to a similar sized beef burger patty, a chicken patty typically has fewer calories, less fat, and more protein. But sodium levels can still be quite high in store-bought frozen patties due to added salt and spices. Always check the nutrition label when comparing products.
Here is a nutrition comparison between a typical 100g chicken patty and 100g beef patty:
| Nutrient | Chicken Patty | Beef Patty |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 165 | 230 |
| Fat | 8g | 15g |
| Protein | 18g | 17g |
| Carbs | 4g | 0g |
As you can see, the chicken provides 30% fewer calories and almost half the fat content. It’s a leaner protein source compared to beef.
Chicken Patty Ingredients to Avoid
When purchasing store-bought chicken patties, you’ll want to read the ingredient list closely. Watch out for these red flags:
- Added sugars – Things like dextrose, corn syrup or sucrose.
- Artificial flavors and colors – These provide no nutritional value.
- Excess fillers – Avoid products listing fillers like soy protein or wheat gluten high up on the ingredients list.
- MSG – Monosodium glutamate, a flavor enhancer that some people are sensitive to.
- High sodium – Look for under 300mg per patty, if possible.
Your best bet is to choose products with a short, straightforward list of ingredients including just chicken, spices, and minimal binders.
Making Your Own Chicken Patties
For the healthiest and tastiest option, making chicken patties from scratch at home is ideal. Here is a simple recipe to try:
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken (mix of white and dark meat)
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine all ingredients until well mixed.
- Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties, about 1/2 inch thick.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until browned and cooked through.
- Serve patties on buns with your favorite toppings.
Making your own patties allows you to control the quality of ingredients and flavorings used. Be sure to use fresh, high-quality ground chicken. The patties can be frozen after cooking for quick reheating later on.
Common Ways Chicken Patties Are Served
Chicken burger patties are versatile and can be served in multiple ways:
- Chicken burgers – The patty is served on a bun or roll, along with various toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, pickle, cheese, barbecue sauce, etc.
- Chicken sandwiches – Served between slices of bread, again with various vegetable toppings.
- Substitute in dishes – Try using chicken patties instead of beef patties in dishes like sliders, sandwiches, salads, wraps, and more.
- Appetizers – Breaded chicken patties or nuggets served with dipping sauces.
- Main entrees – Larger chicken patties can be entrees, served with sides like mashed potatoes, rice, veggies, etc.
The mild flavor and texture of chicken patties works well in a wide variety of dishes.
Tips for Cooking Chicken Patties
To achieve the best results when cooking homemade or store-bought chicken patties:
- Use a non-stick pan or brush the pan with a small amount of oil or cooking spray.
- Cook over medium heat. Too high will burn the outside before the inside cooks.
- Don’t press down on patties while cooking. This can make them dry.
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Chicken should not be pink inside.
- Let patties rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking before serving.
- To retain moisture, try baking in a 350°F oven instead of pan-frying.
With the proper technique, chicken burger patties can come out perfectly juicy and delicious every time.
Pre-Cooked vs Raw Patties
Store-bought chicken patties will typically be either pre-cooked or sold raw:
- Pre-cooked patties – These are fully cooked and just need reheating. They will usually be found in the freezer section.
- Raw patties – Sold fresh in the refrigerated section, these require full cooking before eating.
Pre-cooked frozen patties just need a quick pan fry or bake in the oven to heat through. Raw fresh patties take longer to cook at higher heats to ensure food safety.
Check the product packaging to determine if a patty is pre-cooked or raw before use. Undercooking raw chicken poses a food poisoning risk.
Common FAQs
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about chicken burger patties:
Are chicken patties healthier than beef?
Overall, yes. Chicken is lower in saturated fat and calories compared to beef. It provides lean protein without as much fat content. However, sodium levels in processed patties may still be high.
Do chicken patties have fillers?
They may contain some binders like breadcrumbs or egg to help hold the patty together. High-quality patties minimize filler ingredients. Check the nutrition label and look for short ingredient lists.
Can you freeze homemade chicken patties?
Absolutely. Cook chicken patties first, let cool, and freeze in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months. Reheat frozen patties in the oven or skillet until hot.
What’s the white stuff in raw chicken patties?
This is called purge or protein purge. The cloudy white liquid is composed of proteins and water that are released from the chicken during processing and storage. It is normal and the patties are still safe to eat when cooked fully.
What’s the best way to cook chicken patties?
For maximum juiciness, either pan fry over medium-high heat or bake in a 375°F oven. Cook to an internal temperature of 165°F. Be careful not to overcook or patties can dry out.
Conclusion
Chicken burger patties make a quick, easy, and healthier alternative to beef burgers. When choosing pre-made patties, look for minimal ingredients and keep an eye on sodium content. For the best quality, make patties at home from fresh ground chicken seasoned to taste. Cook chicken patties thoroughly until no longer pink inside. Then serve on a bun or in your favorite recipes for a leaner, lighter take on the traditional burger.