Juicy Chicken Patties with Bell Pepper and Semolina

These Juicy Chicken Patties with Bell Pepper and Semolina are the ultimate quick and healthy protein-packed meal. Made with finely chopped chicken breast, crunchy bell peppers, green onions, and a touch of semolina to bind everything together, these patties are incredibly tender and flavorful. A spoonful of mayonnaise or sour cream adds just the right amount of creaminess, while semolina ensures the texture stays soft and juicy inside with a lightly crisp exterior when pan-fried.

Perfect for a weeknight dinner, a protein-rich lunch, or even a party platter, this recipe is versatile and easy enough for cooks of any skill level. Whether you serve them with a creamy garlic dip, on a bed of greens, or in a bun as a healthier take on burgers, these chicken patties are sure to become a family favorite.

Cooking Time

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes

• Resting Time (optional): 15–20 minutes

• Cooking Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 25–35 minutes

Ingredients

• Chicken breast: 350 g (about 12 oz), finely chopped

• Paprika (bell pepper): ½ medium-sized, finely diced

• Green onion: 2–3 stalks, chopped

• Salt: To taste

• Black pepper: To taste

• Egg: 1 large

• Mayonnaise (or sour cream): 1 tablespoon

• Semolina: 1½ to 2 tablespoons

• Oil: For pan-frying

Step-by-step Cooking Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Finely chop the chicken breast into very small cubes or pulse in a food processor for a quicker option. Transfer the chopped chicken to a large mixing bowl. Add the diced red bell pepper and chopped green onions. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste.

Step 2: Add the Binders
Crack in the egg and add a tablespoon of mayonnaise or sour cream. Sprinkle 1½ tablespoons of semolina over the mixture. Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands until everything is well combined. If the mixture feels too wet, you may add up to 2 tablespoons of semolina.

Step 3: Let the Mixture Rest (Optional)
To enhance the texture, cover the bowl and refrigerate for 15–20 minutes. This allows the semolina to absorb moisture and makes shaping easier.

Step 4: Shape the Patties
With clean hands, form the mixture into small, flattened patties. If the mixture sticks to your hands, slightly wet them or use a spoon for easier shaping.

Step 5: Cook the Patties
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some oil. Place the patties into the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 74°C or 165°F).

Nutritional Information

(Approximate per 1 patty, assuming 6 patties total)

• Calories: 120

• Protein: 15 g

• Fat: 5 g

• Carbohydrates: 3 g

• Fiber: 0.5 g

• Sodium: 180 mg

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Chicken patties like these are popular in many cultures due to their simplicity, versatility, and the ease of making them ahead of time. This particular version, which combines tender chicken with veggies and semolina, draws inspiration from Eastern European home kitchens, where semolina is often used as a binder in meat-based dishes. With the rise of healthy eating trends, these patties have become a beloved option for high-protein, low-carb diets and are now common in meal preps, lunch boxes, and family dinners.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with simple ingredients

• Protein-rich and naturally low in carbs

• Great for meal prep and reheats well

• Kid-friendly and customizable

• Freezer-friendly for future meals

Health Benefits

• Lean chicken breast provides high-quality protein with minimal fat

• Bell peppers are loaded with vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber

• Green onions add flavor and essential vitamins A and K

• Semolina is a slow-digesting carb that supports sustained energy

• Egg adds protein and helps bind the ingredients

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a garlic yogurt dip or tzatziki

• Add to a lunch bowl with quinoa and roasted veggies

• Make sliders with whole grain buns and avocado slices

• Serve with mashed potatoes and green beans for a classic dinner

• Wrap in lettuce leaves with hummus for a low-carb option

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overprocessing the chicken—can make the texture too mushy

• Using too much semolina—results in dry patties

• Skipping resting time—makes the mixture harder to shape

• Overcrowding the pan—can cause steaming instead of browning

• Undercooking—always check for doneness at the center

Pairing Recommendations

• Drink: A light, citrusy white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon

• Side Dish: Cucumber salad, roasted sweet potatoes, or grilled vegetables

• Dip: Creamy garlic aioli, avocado lime sauce, or classic ketchup

Cooking Tips

• Chill the mixture to firm it up for easier handling

• Wet your hands or spoon when forming patties to prevent sticking

• Make a double batch and freeze half for later use

• Try baking or air frying for a healthier alternative

• Don’t press down on the patties while cooking—they’ll stay juicier if left alone

Similar Recipes to Try

• Chicken zucchini fritters

• Turkey and sweet potato patties

• Tuna cakes with dill yogurt sauce

• Ground chicken burgers with spinach

• Salmon patties with lemon-dill mayo

Variations to Try

• Add grated zucchini (squeezed dry) for extra veggies

• Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeño or a dash of chili flakes

• Cheesy version: Mix in grated mozzarella or Parmesan

• Herby twist: Add fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill

• Low-fat version: Skip the mayo and add a spoonful of plain Greek yogurt

Ingredient Spotlight

Chicken Breast
Lean and rich in protein, chicken breast is a popular choice for health-conscious cooks. It’s also low in saturated fat and highly versatile.

Semolina
Semolina helps bind the mixture without the heaviness of breadcrumbs or flour. It also adds a pleasant texture and mild nutty flavor.

Bell Pepper
Not only do bell peppers add a touch of sweetness and crunch, but they are also a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants.

Green Onion
Green onions add freshness and a mild onion flavor without overpowering the dish. They’re also rich in vitamin K and beneficial plant compounds.

Mayonnaise/Sour Cream
These add fat and creaminess, which help keep the patties juicy and tender through cooking.

Conclusion Paragraph

These Juicy Chicken Patties with Bell Pepper and Semolina are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be bland or boring. With minimal prep, wholesome ingredients, and versatile serving options, this recipe is a fantastic addition to your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping lunch for the week, these patties are flavorful, filling, and incredibly adaptable. Once you try them, they’re sure to become a go-to favorite for busy weeknights and special occasions alike.

10 Comprehensive Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground chicken instead of finely chopped chicken?
Yes, ground chicken works well and saves time. However, chopping the chicken gives a more rustic texture and holds moisture better.

2. What can I substitute for semolina?
You can use breadcrumbs, oat flour, or cooked quinoa. Just adjust the quantity to get the right consistency.

3. Can I bake the patties instead of frying them?
Absolutely. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway for even browning.

4. How do I store leftover patties?
Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

5. Are these patties freezer-friendly?
Yes, shape the patties and freeze them raw with parchment paper between layers. Thaw before cooking, or cook straight from frozen by extending the cook time.

6. Can I make them dairy-free?
Use dairy-free mayonnaise or simply omit it and add a teaspoon of olive oil or mashed avocado for moisture.

7. What sauces go well with these patties?
Try tzatziki, garlic aioli, mustard-yogurt dip, or sweet chili sauce for dipping.

8. Can I serve these as sliders or in wraps?
Definitely! They’re great in slider buns, pita wraps, or lettuce wraps with fresh veggies.

9. Can I meal prep these in advance?
Yes, you can prep the mixture or shape the patties a day ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.

10. How do I know the patties are cooked through?
Ensure the internal temperature reaches 74°C (165°F), or cut into one to check for no pink inside and clear juices.