This Chicken Rissoles Recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, delicious meal. Packed with juicy chicken mince, grated vegetables, and pockets of melty cheese, these rissoles are a flavorful twist on a classic dish. Perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers incredible results every time.
Key Takeaways
- Cheesy Goodness: Melted cheese creates delightful pockets of oozy flavor in every bite.
- Nutritious and Balanced: Grated carrot and zucchini add moisture, flavor, and hidden veggies.
- Quick and Easy: Simple ingredients and minimal prep make these perfect for busy evenings.
- Customizable: Swap out cheeses or add your favorite seasonings to make them your own.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Rissoles
The Chicken Rissoles Recipe is a perfect blend of nutrition and flavor. With tender chicken mince, hidden veggies, and gooey cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages. This recipe is versatile, customizable, and works wonderfully for casual meals or special occasions.
Ingredients for Chicken Rissoles
For the Rissoles
- Chicken Mince: 500g (1 lb), ensure excess liquid is drained to keep the mixture firm.
- Carrot: 1 medium, grated finely for even texture.
- Zucchini: 1 medium, also finely grated.
- Egg: 1, helps bind the mixture.
- Cheese: 150g shredded Colby, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a similar melting cheese.
- Panko Breadcrumbs: 45g, adds structure and keeps the rissoles tender.
- Parsley: 1 tbsp finely chopped (optional, for added freshness).
- Salt: 1 tsp, for seasoning.
- Black Pepper: 0.5 tsp, for a subtle spice.
For Cooking & Serving
- Canola Oil: 2 tbsp, for pan-frying.
- Ketchup: For dipping and serving.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 100°C/210°F (all oven types). Place a rack over a baking tray to keep the cooked rissoles warm while you finish the batches.
Step 2: Prepare the Rissole Mixture
In a large bowl, combine all the rissole ingredients—chicken mince, grated carrot and zucchini, egg, cheese, breadcrumbs, parsley, salt, and pepper. Use a wooden spoon to mix until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the rissoles tender.
Step 3: Form the Rissoles
Wet your hands to prevent sticking. Scoop just shy of 1/4 cup of the mixture and shape it into patties about 6 cm wide and 1.5 cm thick. If the mixture feels too loose, add a small amount of extra breadcrumbs.
Step 4: Cook the Rissoles
Heat 1 tablespoon of canola oil in a large non-stick frying pan over medium-high heat. Cook 5–6 rissoles at a time for about 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown. Repeat with the remaining rissoles, adding more oil as needed.
Step 5: Keep Warm
Place the cooked rissoles on the prepared rack in the oven to stay warm while you finish frying the rest.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the rissoles hot with ketchup for dipping, or pair them with a fresh salad, mashed potatoes, or a side of steamed vegetables.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Rissoles
- Drain the Chicken Mince: Chicken mince can be watery, so discard any excess liquid before mixing. This keeps the mixture firm and prevents it from falling apart.
- Grate Vegetables Properly: Grating on a shallow angle ensures shorter strands that blend seamlessly into the mixture. Longer strands can make the rissoles harder to shape.
- Cheese Choices: Use cheeses that melt beautifully without overwhelming the dish, such as Colby, cheddar, or Monterey Jack.
- Cooking Method: Pan-frying creates the best golden crust, but baking is a decent alternative if you prefer less oil.
Customizing Your Chicken Rissoles
Add Your Own Twist
- Spices and Herbs: Add garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, or fresh dill for extra flavor.
- Cheese Variations: Experiment with mozzarella, gouda, or provolone for unique cheesy notes.
- Vegetables: Replace zucchini or carrot with grated sweet potato, parsnip, or even finely chopped spinach.
Nutritional Benefits of Chicken Rissoles
Here’s the nutritional breakdown per rissole:
| Nutrient | Per Rissole | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 132 | 7% |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g | 1% |
| Protein | 9 g | 18% |
| Fat | 9 g | 14% |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g | 19% |
| Fiber | 1 g | 4% |
| Sodium | 274 mg | 12% |
These rissoles offer a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and fats, making them both filling and nutritious.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these rissoles instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them. Spray the patties generously with olive oil spray and bake at 220°C/430°F for 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through. Note that baking may result in a lighter color.
Can I freeze chicken rissoles?
Freezing is possible but not ideal, as the juiciness may be reduced. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheat in a pan or oven.
Can I substitute the vegetables?
Absolutely! You can double up on zucchini or carrot or use other grated vegetables like sweet potato or parsnip.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Colby, cheddar, Monterey Jack, or gouda are all excellent choices for their meltability and mild flavor.
Serve Chicken Rissoles Your Way
These Chicken Rissoles are a versatile dish that pairs well with many sides. Serve them with a crisp green salad, fluffy mashed potatoes, or rice pilaf for a hearty meal. Alternatively, enjoy them as sliders with buns, lettuce, and your favorite condiments for a fun twist.
Transform simple ingredients into a cheesy, juicy delight with this Chicken Rissoles Recipe. Perfect for family meals or gatherings, these patties are easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your household. Try them tonight!