Ingredients:

For the Chicken Patties:

• Chicken breasts – 2 (750 grams), finely minced or ground
• Onion – 1, finely chopped
• Parsley – A handful, finely chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Egg – 1
• Flour – 3 tablespoons (60 grams)
• Breadcrumbs – ½ cup (70 grams)
• Salt – 1 teaspoon (8 grams)
• Ground red pepper – 1 teaspoon
• Cumin – ½ teaspoon
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon

For the Sauce:

• Vegetable oil – 3-4 tablespoons (20 ml)
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Green peppers – 2, chopped
• Red peppers – 2, chopped
• Tomatoes – 2, finely chopped
• Salt – ½ teaspoon (4 grams)
• Black pepper flakes – 1 teaspoon
• Red pepper flakes – 1 teaspoon
• Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
• Cheddar cheese – 30 grams, grated

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely minced chicken breasts, chopped onion, minced garlic, finely chopped parsley, and egg. Add 3 tablespoons of flour and ½ cup of breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of ground red pepper, ½ teaspoon of cumin, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Mix all the ingredients together until well combined.
2. Shape the Patties: Once the mixture is thoroughly mixed, shape it into small patties using your hands. You should be able to form around 6-8 medium-sized patties.
3. Cook the Patties: Heat 2-3 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the chicken patties in batches (don’t overcrowd the pan). Cook each side for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Set the cooked patties aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.

Step 2: Prepare the Spicy Vegetable Sauce

1. Sauté the Garlic and Peppers: In the same skillet used to cook the chicken patties (add a little more oil if necessary), sauté the minced garlic over medium heat for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the chopped green and red peppers and continue to cook for 4-5 minutes until softened.
2. Add the Tomatoes: Stir in the finely chopped tomatoes, and season the mixture with ½ teaspoon of salt, 1 teaspoon of black pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, and ½ teaspoon of black pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the sauce thickens slightly.
3. Add Cheddar Cheese: Once the sauce has thickened, stir in 30 grams of grated cheddar cheese. Allow the cheese to melt into the sauce, stirring gently to create a rich, creamy consistency. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Step 3: Combine the Patties and Sauce

1. Add Patties to the Sauce: Gently place the cooked chicken patties back into the skillet with the spicy vegetable sauce. Spoon the sauce over the patties, ensuring they are well-coated.
2. Simmer Together: Cover the skillet with a lid and let the patties simmer in the sauce for another 5 minutes on low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together.
3. Serve: Once the patties are fully heated through and the sauce has thickened to your liking, turn off the heat. Serve the chicken patties hot, garnished with additional parsley if desired.

Cooking Tips:

• For Extra Juiciness: You can add 1-2 tablespoons of plain yogurt or a splash of milk to the chicken patty mixture to keep them extra juicy and tender.
• Spice Adjustments: Adjust the spice level to your preference by increasing or decreasing the amount of red pepper flakes. For a milder version, omit the red pepper flakes and replace them with paprika for color without the heat.
• Make-Ahead: You can prepare the chicken patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator. Simply reheat them in the sauce when ready to serve.
• Serving Suggestions: These chicken patties pair perfectly with rice, mashed potatoes, pasta, or a fresh green salad. You can also serve them in a sandwich or pita bread for a more casual meal.

Storage:

• Refrigeration: Store any leftover chicken patties and sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.
• Freezing: You can freeze the cooked patties (without the sauce) for up to 2 months. Allow the patties to cool completely, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet or oven.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Based on 4 Servings):

• Calories: 380-420 kcal
• Protein: 28g
• Fat: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 980mg

This dish is high in protein thanks to the chicken and cheese, while also offering a good balance of healthy fats and fiber from the vegetables. The spices provide flavor without adding too many extra calories, making this a nutritious and satisfying meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken? Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for the chicken to make turkey patties. Ground turkey is leaner but will still work well with the same ingredients and spices.

2. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart? The breadcrumbs and egg act as binding agents, but if your mixture feels too loose, you can add an extra tablespoon of flour or breadcrumbs to help firm up the patties.

3. Can I make this recipe dairy-free? To make this dish dairy-free, simply omit the cheddar cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. The rest of the ingredients are naturally dairy-free.

4. What can I use instead of cheddar cheese? If you prefer, you can substitute the cheddar with mozzarella, parmesan, or any other melting cheese of your choice for a different flavor profile.

5. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them? Yes, you can bake the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and cooked through.

Conclusion:

These Chicken Patties with Spicy Vegetable Sauce and Cheddar are the perfect combination of rich flavors and wholesome ingredients. The juicy chicken patties are packed with herbs and spices, while the vegetable sauce provides a punch of flavor and a creamy texture, thanks to the melted cheddar cheese. Whether you’re preparing a comforting weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is both versatile and satisfying. The best part? You can easily adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences, making it a dish that will become a regular in your meal rotation. Enjoy this flavorful and hearty dish with your favorite sides, and share the recipe with friends and family!