How to Cook Frozen Chicken Patties in Air Fryer
Frozen chicken patties are a quick and tasty meal option.
I prefer using an air fryer because it crisps the outside nicely without drying the inside. Cooking frozen patties straight from the freezer saves time and avoids mess.
I suggest not overcrowding the basket so each patty cooks evenly.
Starter Tip: For best results, cook patties in a single layer and flip halfway through for even crisping.
Cooking Time & Quick Facts
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Course | Cuisine | Servings |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 minute | 12–15 minutes | 15–16 minutes | Main Dish / Snack | American | 2–4 |
Ingredients & Alternatives
| Item | 2 Servings | 4 Servings | Alternatives |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frozen chicken patties | 2 pieces | 4 pieces | Beef or veggie patties |
| Light oil spray (optional) | Spray before cooking | Spray before cooking | Enhances crispiness |
| Burger buns (optional) | 2 buns | 4 buns | Lettuce wraps |
Cooking Tools You’ll Need
| Tool | Purpose | Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Air fryer (basket or oven style) | Even, fast cooking | Convection oven |
| Tongs | Flip patties safely | Spatula |
How Long to Cook Frozen Chicken Patties in Air Fryer
| Air Fryer Type | Temperature | Time | Tips |
|---|---|---|---|
| Basket Style | 360°F (182°C) | 12–15 minutes | Flip halfway through |
| Oven Style | 375°F (190°C) | 13–16 minutes | Use middle rack |
How to Make Frozen Chicken Patties in Air Fryer
Here’s the detailed process I follow to get perfectly cooked frozen chicken patties with a crispy outside and juicy inside.
Starter Tip: No need to thaw the patties; cooking from frozen keeps them juicy and crispy.
Step 1 – Prepare the Basket
Preheat your air fryer to 360°F. Lightly spray the basket to prevent sticking. Arrange frozen patties in a single layer with space between each.
Step 2 – Start Cooking
Set the timer for 7 minutes and cook. No flipping needed yet.
Step 3 – Flip Patties
After 7 minutes, use tongs to flip the patties carefully. Spray a light mist of oil if you want extra crispiness.
Step 4 – Finish Cooking
Cook for another 5–8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is golden brown.
Step 5 – Rest Before Serving
Let patties rest for 2 minutes after cooking to allow juices to settle.
Serving & Presentation Tips
- Serve patties in toasted buns with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauces.
- Add cheese slices during the last 2 minutes of cooking for a melty finish.
- Pair with air-fried fries or a fresh salad.
Variations to Try
Spicy Chicken Patties
Sprinkle cayenne or smoked paprika on frozen patties before cooking for a spicy kick.
BBQ Glazed Patties
Brush cooked patties with BBQ sauce and air fry for an extra 2 minutes to caramelize the glaze.
Herb-Infused Patties
Add dried Italian herbs or garlic powder to patties before cooking to enhance flavor.
Storing Tips
- Keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to maintain crispiness.
- Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
Extra Tips I Suggest
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature.
- Avoid overcrowding to get an even crisp.
- Spray oil lightly for better browning but it’s optional.
Common Mistakes & Solutions
| Mistake | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Dry patties | Overcooking or thawing first | Cook from frozen and check temperature |
| Uneven cooking | Overcrowding basket | Cook in batches with space |
FAQs
Can I cook frozen chicken patties without oil spray?
Yes, oil spray is optional but helps crispiness.
Do I need to flip the patties?
Flipping halfway helps even browning but some air fryers cook well without flipping.
How do I know patties are cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature.
Can I add cheese to patties?
Yes, add cheese slices in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
Can I freeze cooked chicken patties?
Yes, store in airtight containers and reheat in air fryer.
Try This Recipe and Share Your Experience
Try cooking frozen chicken patties in your air fryer using these steps and tips. Feel free to customize and share how it went in the comments below!
