These juicy chicken patties hide a molten mozzarella center and finish simmering in a rich tomato sauce — comfort food that still feels fresh and weeknight-friendly. Golden on the outside, tender inside, and saucy enough for rice, pasta, or crusty bread, they are a dinner the whole table will love. For more cheesy chicken inspiration, try our Caprese Chicken with Mozzarella and Tomatoes and Chicken Parmigiana with Mozzarella.
Ingredients
- 500 g (1.1 lb) ground chicken
- 1 large egg
- 3 tbsp breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt, black pepper, and chicken seasoning to taste
- 300 ml (1 1/4 cups) tomato sauce
- 200 ml (3/4 cup + 1 tbsp) water
- Mini mozzarella balls, 1 per patty
Instructions
- Mix the ground chicken with the egg, breadcrumbs, flour, and seasonings. Let the mixture rest for 20 to 30 minutes.
- Shape into patties, tucking a mini mozzarella ball into the center of each. Pan-fry on both sides until golden.
- In the same pan, saute the onion, stir in the flour, and cook for a few more minutes.
- Pour in the tomato sauce and stir until it thickens, then add the water and return the patties to the pan.
- Simmer covered for about 15 minutes. Adjust the salt, add spices and fresh herbs to taste.
Tips
- Seal the mozzarella completely inside each patty so it melts rather than leaks out.
- Rest the mixture before shaping for patties that hold together in the pan.
- For safe chicken cooking guidance, see USDA, and for more weeknight dinners browse Serious Eats.
Nutrition: per 100 g: 133 kcal, protein 9.7 g, fat 5.4 g, carbs 10.8 g.