Homemade Oven-Baked Chicken Cakes: A Step-by-Step Guide for Perfect Results181

Chicken cakes, or chicken patties, are a versatile and delicious comfort food. While many opt for pan-frying, baking them in the oven offers a healthier, less messy alternative, resulting in crispy edges and juicy interiors. This comprehensive guide will walk you through making incredibly flavorful and tender oven-baked chicken cakes, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend meal.

Ingredients:

This recipe yields approximately 6-8 chicken cakes, depending on size.
1.5 lbs ground chicken (preferably dark meat for extra moisture)
1/2 cup bread crumbs (panko recommended for extra crispiness)
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/4 cup milk or buttermilk (buttermilk adds a tangy flavor)
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons olive oil (for greasing the baking sheet)
Optional: 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor and richness

Equipment:
Large mixing bowl
Baking sheet
Parchment paper (recommended)
Measuring cups and spoons
Spatula

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, bread crumbs, onion, celery, egg, milk, Dijon mustard, thyme, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. If using, add the Parmesan cheese at this stage. Avoid overmixing, as this can result in tough chicken cakes. Gently mix until just combined.

Step 2: Shape the Chicken Cakes

Using your hands, form the chicken mixture into patties, about 1/2 inch thick and 3-4 inches in diameter. You can adjust the size depending on your preference. Try to make them relatively uniform in thickness for even cooking.

Step 3: Prepare the Baking Sheet

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. This prevents sticking and makes cleanup a breeze. Drizzle the parchment paper with olive oil to further prevent sticking and add a touch of flavor.

Step 4: Bake the Chicken Cakes

Place the chicken cakes onto the prepared baking sheet, leaving a little space between each patty for even air circulation. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken cakes are cooked through and golden brown. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. If you prefer crispier edges, broil for the last 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, remove the chicken cakes from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. They are delicious on their own, served with a side of your favorite vegetables, or nestled in a bun with your favorite toppings for a hearty chicken burger.

Tips and Variations:
For extra flavor: Marinate the ground chicken in a mixture of your favorite herbs and spices for at least 30 minutes before shaping the patties.
Add some heat: Incorporate a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce into the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings such as shredded cheese, avocado, salsa, or aioli for a customized experience.
Make it healthier: Use whole wheat bread crumbs or add finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or carrots to the mixture.
Freeze for later: You can freeze uncooked chicken cakes for future use. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Then transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage. Bake from frozen, adding 5-7 minutes to the cooking time.

Oven-baked chicken cakes are a fantastically versatile dish that's easy to customize to your liking. Follow these steps, and you'll be enjoying perfectly cooked, juicy, and flavorful chicken cakes in no time! Enjoy!

2025-06-07

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