Cheesy Baked Chicken Zucchini Patties with Creamy Herb Dip

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 20–25 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 4–6

• Yield: 10–12 patties

• Cooking Method: Baking or pan-frying

Ingredients

For the Chicken Patties

• 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken

• 1 medium zucchini, grated

• ½ cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ½ cup breadcrumbs

• 1 large egg

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

• ½ teaspoon onion powder

• ½ teaspoon paprika

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

• ½ teaspoon salt, or to taste

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

For the Creamy Herb Dipping Sauce

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped

• 1 small garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• ¼ teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Zucchini

1. Wash the zucchini thoroughly.

2. Trim off both ends.

3. Grate using a box grater.

4. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel.

5. Squeeze firmly to remove as much excess moisture as possible.

Important: Removing excess water helps the patties hold their shape and become beautifully golden.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

1. Place ground chicken in a large mixing bowl.

2. Add the squeezed grated zucchini.

3. Add mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.

4. Add breadcrumbs and one beaten egg.

5. Mix in minced garlic and chopped parsley.

6. Add onion powder, paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper.

7. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly combined.

Avoid overmixing, as this can make the patties dense.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

1. Lightly grease your hands with olive oil.

2. Scoop approximately 2 tablespoons of mixture.

3. Shape into small round patties.

4. Flatten each one slightly.

5. Place them on a parchment-lined baking tray.

6. Leave a little space between each patty.

Step 4: Bake Until Golden

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Lightly brush the patties with olive oil.

3. Bake for 20–25 minutes, turning halfway through.

4. Cook until golden brown and fully cooked.

5. Check that the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

For extra golden tops, broil for 1–2 minutes at the end, watching carefully.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Herb Sauce

1. Add mayonnaise and sour cream to a small bowl.

2. Add lemon juice and olive oil.

3. Stir in minced garlic.

4. Add chopped parsley and dill.

5. Season with salt and black pepper.

6. Whisk until smooth and creamy.

7. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.

Step 6: Serve

1. Arrange the hot chicken patties on a serving plate.

2. Place a small bowl of creamy herb sauce in the center.

3. Sprinkle fresh parsley over the patties.

4. Serve immediately while warm.

Enjoy the cheesy, tender centers with the refreshing garlic-herb dip!

Alternative Cooking Method: Pan-Frying

1. Heat 2–3 tablespoons olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

2. Carefully place patties into the skillet.

3. Cook for approximately 4–5 minutes per side.

4. Reduce heat if the outside browns too quickly.

5. Ensure the center reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate before serving.

Nutrition Information

Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings with dipping sauce.

Nut Information (Q/S)

Q/S = Quantity per Serving

Allergen information: Contains dairy, egg, and wheat/gluten if using regular breadcrumbs. Check mayonnaise, cheese, and other packaged ingredients for allergen cross-contact.

Helpful Tips for Perfect Patties

• Always squeeze excess moisture from zucchini.

• Use freshly grated cheese for the best texture.

• Refrigerate the mixture for 15 minutes if it feels too soft.

• Do not make the patties too thick.

• Use a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking.

• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy version.

• Fresh dill gives the dipping sauce a wonderful flavor.

Storage Instructions

• Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.

• Freezer: Freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months.

• Reheating: Reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

• Sauce: Refrigerate separately for up to 3–4 days.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these delicious patties with:

• Fresh garden salad

• Roasted potatoes

• Steamed vegetables

• Garlic rice

• Coleslaw

• Cucumber and tomato salad

• Creamy ranch or garlic yogurt dip

Final Result: Beautifully golden, cheesy, juicy chicken zucchini patties with a creamy, refreshing herb sauce. Perfect for family meals, parties, appetizers, or meal preparation!