Chicken Rissoles

Juicy, Golden, and Totally Irresistible—The Comfort Food You Didn’t Know You Needed

If you’re craving something hearty, satisfying, and just downright delicious, let me introduce you to Chicken Rissoles—your new favorite weeknight go-to. Think of them as juicy, pan-fried chicken patties packed with flavor, crisp on the outside, and tender on the inside. They’re kind of like meatballs’ bigger, more comforting cousin. And trust me, once you try them, they’ll be making regular appearances on your dinner table.

They’re quick, budget-friendly, and super versatile—serve them with mash, in a sandwich, or even with a fresh salad. However you plate them up, they’re guaranteed to be a hit!

Why You’ll Love Chicken Rissoles

Juicy & Flavorful: Ground chicken gets a flavor upgrade with herbs, spices, and little extras like grated onion or cheese.

Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and reheat them all week—great for busy nights or packed lunches.

Kid-Approved: Mild enough for picky eaters, but flavorful enough for the adults.

Crispy Outside, Tender Inside: That golden crust is seriously addictive—and it’s all done on the stovetop or in the oven.

Versatile Serving Options: Eat them as a main with sides, tuck them in a burger bun, or crumble them over pasta or salad.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients in Chicken Rissoles

Simple pantry and fridge staples come together to make something truly delicious:

Ground Chicken

Lean, protein-packed, and super adaptable to different flavors. Choose thigh meat for extra juiciness if available.

Onion

Grated onion adds moisture and flavor. It melts into the mix and keeps the rissoles from drying out.

Garlic

Fresh minced garlic brings bold, savory flavor—don’t skip it!

Breadcrumbs

Bind everything together and give the rissoles that satisfying, tender texture. Use panko for extra lightness.

Egg

Helps hold the mixture together so your patties stay intact while cooking.

Fresh Herbs

Parsley, thyme, chives, or coriander—pick your favorite or mix a few. Herbs give the rissoles their signature fresh taste.

Spices

A touch of paprika, cumin, or even a pinch of chili flakes can add great depth and warmth.

Salt & Pepper

Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors to life. Be generous!

Olive Oil or Butter

Used for pan-frying—adds golden color and delicious flavor.

Instructions

Time to turn that bowl of ingredients into golden, savory deliciousness:

Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, herbs, and spices. Mix until everything is just combined—don’t overwork it or the rissoles can turn tough.

Shape into Patties

With damp hands, form the mixture into palm-sized patties. Aim for even thickness so they cook uniformly.

Chill (Optional but Helpful)

Pop the rissoles into the fridge for 15–30 minutes. This helps them firm up and hold their shape better when cooking.

Cook Until Golden

Heat oil or butter in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook rissoles for 4–5 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through. You can also bake them in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

Serve & Enjoy

Serve hot with mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, a crisp salad, or tucked into a sandwich. However you dish them up, you’ll be glad you did.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4–5
Calories per serving: ~250–300 calories (without sides)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

How to Serve Chicken Rissoles

Rissoles are super adaptable—here are some tasty ideas:

Classic Comfort: Serve with creamy mashed potatoes, steamed greens, and gravy.

Healthy Option: Pair with a fresh garden salad or roasted veggies for a lighter meal.

Burger-Style: Pop a rissole into a brioche bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce.

Meal Prep Bowls: Slice and serve over rice or quinoa with veggies and a drizzle of tahini or yogurt sauce.

Kid-Friendly Dinner: Serve with fries and ketchup for a no-fuss, guaranteed win.

Additional Tips

Keep Hands Wet: When shaping rissoles, wet hands help prevent sticking and make smoother patties.

Chill for Better Shape: A quick chill helps firm them up before cooking and makes them easier to handle.

Use a Thermometer: Cook until internal temp hits 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re safe and juicy.

Make Ahead: Form the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.

Double the Batch: They freeze well, so make extra! Cook first, then freeze and reheat in the oven.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A1: Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and has a similar flavor and texture.

Q2: Can I bake the rissoles instead of frying?
A2: Yes—bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.

Q3: Can I make them gluten-free?
A3: Totally! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.

Q4: How do I store leftover rissoles?
A4: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan or oven to maintain crispiness.

Q5: Can I freeze chicken rissoles?
A5: Yes—cook, cool, and freeze in a single layer. Reheat from frozen in the oven or microwave.

Q6: What’s the best way to keep them moist?
A6: Don’t overmix the meat, and use grated onion in the mix—it adds moisture naturally.

Q7: Can I add cheese to the mix?
A7: Yes! Grated cheddar, mozzarella, or parmesan work great for extra flavor and richness.

Q8: How do I prevent them from falling apart?
A8: Make sure the mixture is well combined and chill the patties before cooking for better structure.

Q9: What herbs work best in rissoles?
A9: Parsley, thyme, basil, or even dill. Fresh herbs give great flavor and color.

Q10: Are rissoles the same as patties or meatballs?
A10: Similar, but not quite! Rissoles are usually larger than meatballs, pan-fried or baked, and often include more flavor add-ins like herbs or onions.

Conclusion

Chicken Rissoles are the kind of recipe you turn to when you want something cozy, simple, and full of flavor—without spending hours in the kitchen. With their golden crust and juicy interior, they’re a surefire hit whether you’re feeding picky eaters or just treating yourself to some comfort food. Make a batch, get creative with sides, and enjoy every bite—you’ve got yourself a new weeknight favorite.

Print