If you want a meal that’s tasty and easy to make, you’re in the right place! In this guide, I’ll walk you through my favorite classic chicken rissoles recipe. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up these delicious bites in no time. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, your taste buds will thank you! Let’s dive into this fun cooking adventure together!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile Flavor: The combination of Parmesan, garlic, and herbs delivers a savory punch that pairs well with various sides.
- Healthy Option: Ground chicken is a lean protein, making these rissoles a healthier alternative to traditional meat patties.
- Great for Meal Prep: These rissoles can be made in advance and stored for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
To make tasty chicken rissoles, you will need:
- 500g ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Nutritional Information
Each serving of chicken rissoles offers a balance of protein, carbs, and fats. Here’s a quick look at the nutrition per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 300
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 1g
This dish is a great source of protein from the chicken and cheese.
Possible Substitutions
If you don’t have some ingredients, here are a few easy swaps:
- Use ground turkey or beef instead of chicken.
- Swap breadcrumbs with oats or crushed crackers.
- For cheese, any hard cheese can work.
- Fresh herbs can be replaced with dried ones.
- Use other spices like cumin or Italian seasoning for a twist.
These substitutions keep the flavor while making the recipe more flexible!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation of Ingredients
To start, gather your ingredients. You will need:
- 500g ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg, beaten
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
Make sure everything is fresh. Measure each ingredient and set them aside. This will make mixing easier.
Mixing the Rissoles Mixture
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, and grated cheese. Next, toss in the chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, dried thyme, and paprika. These flavors blend well together.
Now, crack the egg into the bowl. This helps bind the mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Use your hands to mix everything thoroughly. The mixture should be moist but not sticky.
Once mixed, shape the mixture into small patties. Each patty should be about 2 inches wide. This size helps them cook evenly.
Cooking the Rissoles
Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat. Make sure the oil is hot before adding the rissoles. This helps them brown nicely.
Carefully place the patties into the pan. Don’t overcrowd them. Fry each side for about 4-5 minutes. You want them golden brown and cooked through.
After cooking, remove the rissoles and place them on paper towels. This step helps drain excess oil. Serve them warm for the best taste!
Tips & Tricks
Best Cooking Methods
You have a few options for cooking chicken rissoles. The best method is frying. Use a non-stick pan with olive oil. This method gives them a nice, crispy outside. You can also bake them for a healthier choice. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) and place them on a baking tray. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden.
How to Achieve Perfect Texture
The texture of your rissoles matters. To get it just right, don’t overmix. Combine the ingredients until they are just mixed. This keeps them tender. Use fresh breadcrumbs as they hold moisture better than dried ones. If the mixture feels too wet, add more breadcrumbs little by little. You want them to hold together but not be too dry.
Serving Suggestions
Serving your chicken rissoles is a fun part. Place them on a platter with fresh greens. They look great that way. For dips, mix yogurt with lemon juice and herbs. This adds a nice zing. You can also serve them with a simple salad or roasted veggies. This makes a perfect meal or snack for any time.
Pro Tips
- Ingredient Freshness: Use fresh herbs and ingredients for the best flavor. Fresh parsley and garlic can significantly enhance the taste of your rissoles.
- Consistent Sizing: Try to make your patties uniform in size for even cooking. This ensures that all rissoles cook through at the same rate.
- Preventing Stickiness: Lightly oil your hands while shaping the patties to prevent the mixture from sticking to your fingers.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your rissoles with a tangy yogurt dip or a fresh salad to complement the savory flavors.

Variations
Adding Different Herbs and Spices
You can change the flavor of your rissoles by adding herbs and spices. Try using fresh basil or cilantro for a bright taste. For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes. You can also mix in dried oregano or rosemary for a warm flavor. Experimenting with these can make each batch unique.
Cheese and Filling Variations
Cheese adds creaminess and flavor to your rissoles. Swap out Parmesan for feta or cheddar. You can also mix in chopped spinach or sun-dried tomatoes for added texture. If you like a little sweetness, try adding finely chopped apples. These fillings can create new taste experiences.
Serving with Sauces
Sauces can elevate your rissoles. A yogurt sauce with lemon and herbs adds freshness. You can also serve them with ketchup or barbecue sauce for a classic touch. For a gourmet twist, try a spicy aioli. These sauces can make your meal even more enjoyable.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After cooking your chicken rissoles, let them cool. Place them in an airtight container. You can keep them in the fridge for up to three days. This way, they stay fresh and tasty for your next meal. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing.
Reheating Instructions
To reheat your rissoles, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the rissoles on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until warm. You can also use a microwave. Just place them on a plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat for 1-2 minutes. Check to ensure they are hot all the way through.
Freezing Rissoles
To freeze your rissoles, first let them cool completely. Lay them flat on a baking sheet. Freeze for about an hour until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. They can last up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, you can bake or pan-fry them directly from frozen.
FAQs
What are chicken rissoles?
Chicken rissoles are small, savory patties made from ground chicken. They mix chicken with breadcrumbs, cheese, and herbs. You can fry them until they are golden brown. They are tasty and great for any meal.
Can I make chicken rissoles ahead of time?
Yes, you can make chicken rissoles ahead of time. Prepare the mixture and shape the patties. Store them in the fridge for up to one day. You can also freeze them for later. Just make sure to wrap them well. When ready, thaw and cook them as usual.
How do I know when rissoles are cooked through?
To check if rissoles are cooked, cut one in half. The inside should be white and no longer pink. You can also use a meat thermometer. The center should reach 75°C (165°F). Proper cooking keeps them safe to eat and tasty.
We explored how to make delicious chicken rissoles in this guide. You learned about the key ingredients, how to prepare and cook them, and tips for perfect texture. I also provided fun variations to try and simple storage tips for leftovers.
In conclusion, chicken rissoles are easy to make and vary with your taste. You can enjoy these bites any time you wan

Savory Chicken Rissoles
Ingredients
- 500 g ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh breadcrumbs
- 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 0.25 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg beaten
- to taste salt and pepper
- as needed olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, paprika, and beaten egg.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, then mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter.
- Heat a generous amount of olive oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat.
- Carefully place the rissoles into the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Fry for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Once cooked, remove the rissoles from the pan and drain on paper towels to remove excess oil.
- Serve immediately while warm, or let them cool and store them in an airtight container for later use.


