Perfect Don Lee Farms Chicken Patties in the Air Fryer: Quick, Crispy & Delicious!

Are you staring at that box of Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patties from Costco and wondering how to make them taste amazing? Well I’ve got good news for you! These frozen chicken patties are absolutely PERFECT for the air fryer, and I’m gonna show you exactly how to cook them to crispy juicy perfection.

I’ve been experimenting with these patties for months now, and let me tell ya – the air fryer method is a total game-changer. Not only does it create that perfect texture contrast (crispy outside, juicy inside), but it’s also super quick and way healthier than traditional frying methods.

What Are Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patties?

Before we dive into cooking methods, let’s take a quick look at what makes these chicken patties special:

• Fully cooked, frozen chicken patties sold at Costco
• Made with 100% chicken (no fillers)
• Pre-grilled with distinctive “grill marks” on one side
• Come in a 12-pack box
• High in protein (about 20-22g per patty)
• Low in calories (around 120 calories per patty)
• Low in fat (only 2-7g per patty)
• Affordable option (typically $14.99 regular price, sometimes on sale for $9.99)

These patties are incredibly versatile and make for a quick protein option when you need a meal in a hurry. As David from Shopping With Dave notes, they’re “high in protein but low in calories and fat” making them a solid choice for health-conscious eaters.

Why Use an Air Fryer for Don Lee Farms Chicken Patties?

So why exactly should you use your air fryer for these chicken patties? Here are the main benefits:

1. Healthier Cooking Method

The air fryer uses significantly less oil than traditional frying methods. Since these patties are already low in fat air frying helps keep them that way!

2. Quick and Convenient

Air frying is FAST. You can have perfectly cooked chicken patties in about 10-12 minutes, which is faster than oven baking.

3. Superior Texture

The rapid hot air circulation creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy and tender – the perfect texture contrast!

4. Even Cooking

Air fryers provide consistent, even heat, ensuring your patties are perfectly cooked throughout.

5. Easy Cleanup

Most air fryer baskets are non-stick and dishwasher safe, making cleanup a breeze compared to stovetop cooking.

How to Air Fry Don Lee Farms Chicken Patties: Step-by-Step Guide

Alright, let’s get down to business! Here’s my foolproof method for air frying these chicken patties to perfection:

Step 1: Preheat Your Air Fryer

Set your air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and preheat for 3-5 minutes. This step is super important for achieving that crispy exterior!

Step 2: Arrange the Patties

Place the frozen Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patties in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Don’t overcrowd the basket! If you’re cooking multiple patties, make sure they’re not touching each other. This allows the hot air to circulate properly around each patty.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Air fry the patties for 10-12 minutes total, flipping them halfway through the cooking time (around the 5-6 minute mark).

Note: Cooking times may vary slightly depending on your air fryer model. The first time you make these, check them a minute or two early to prevent overcooking.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Since these patties are pre-cooked, you’re really just heating them through, but it’s always good practice to check the temperature.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the patties rest for about 1-2 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more flavorful and moist chicken patty.

Tips and Tricks for Perfect Air Fryer Chicken Patties

Want to take your Don Lee Farms chicken patties to the next level? Here are some pro tips:

• Cook from frozen: Don’t thaw the patties before air frying. Cooking directly from frozen helps maintain moisture and texture.

• Light oil spray (optional): While not strictly necessary, a very light spray of oil on the patties can enhance crispiness. I use olive oil in a spray bottle to minimize the amount.

• Avoid parchment paper: Unless you’re using perforated parchment paper specifically designed for air fryers, skip the parchment. It can block proper air circulation.

• Season to taste: Although these patties are already seasoned, feel free to add your own favorite spices before air frying. Garlic powder, paprika, or a bit of cayenne pepper can add an extra flavor kick!

• Check frequently: Every air fryer is different, so keep an eye on the patties during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent them from drying out.

Serving Suggestions for Don Lee Farms Chicken Patties

These versatile chicken patties can be enjoyed in so many different ways! Here are some of my favorite serving ideas:

Classic Chicken Sandwich

Place the air-fried patty on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce. I’ve tried both Kinder’s Chicken Sauce and Primal Kitchen’s Korean BBQ Sauce with these patties, and both are delicious options!

Protein-Packed Salad

Slice the air-fried patty and add it to a fresh salad for an extra protein boost. Add some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a light vinaigrette for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Chicken Wrap

Wrap the patty in a tortilla with some lettuce, tomato, avocado, and a spread of your choice for a quick and tasty lunch option.

Protein Bowl

Serve your air-fried chicken patty with quinoa or brown rice, roasted vegetables, and a drizzle of sauce for a nutritious and filling bowl meal.

Nutritional Information

For those tracking their nutrition, here’s what you can expect from each Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patty:

As you can see, these patties are relatively low in calories and fat while being high in protein, making them a great option for various dietary needs.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftover cooked chicken patties (though honestly, we rarely do in my house!), here’s how to store and reheat them:

• Refrigerator storage: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

• Freezer storage: If you need to store them longer, freeze in a freezer-safe container with parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the patties back in the air fryer at 350°F for 3-4 minutes until heated through. This will help restore some of the crispiness lost during storage.

FAQs About Don Lee Farms Chicken Patties in the Air Fryer

Q: Are Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patties pre-cooked?
A: Yes! They’re fully cooked and just need to be heated thoroughly.

Q: Do I need to add oil when air frying these patties?
A: Nope! The patties already contain some fat, and the air fryer will create a crispy exterior without added oil. However, a light spray is optional if you want extra crispiness.

Q: How long do Don Lee Farms chicken patties last in the freezer?
A: Follow the “best by” date on the package, but typically they’ll maintain quality for 2-3 months in the freezer.

Q: Can I cook these patties from thawed instead of frozen?
A: While possible, I don’t recommend it. Cooking from frozen yields better texture and helps prevent the patties from drying out.

Q: Where can I buy Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patties?
A: These patties are commonly sold at Costco warehouses in the freezer section. They’re item number 988973.

Final Thoughts

I gotta say, Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patties have become a staple in my freezer. They’re convenient, versatile, and when cooked in the air fryer, they’re absolutely delicious! The combination of crispy exterior and juicy interior is hard to beat, especially when you consider how quick and easy they are to prepare.

Whether you’re a busy parent looking for a quick dinner solution, a fitness enthusiast seeking a protein-rich meal, or just someone who appreciates good food without a lot of fuss, these chicken patties are definitely worth trying. And trust me – once you try them in the air fryer, you’ll never want to prepare them any other way!

So next time you’re at Costco, grab a box of these Don Lee Farms Grilled Chicken Patties and give the air fryer method a try. Your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!

Have you tried these chicken patties in your air fryer? I’d love to hear your experiences and any special ways you serve them! Drop a comment below and let’s chat!