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Thai Chicken Cakes!

Posted by Zoe on 31-10-2026

Food Recipes

Looking for a quick meal with plenty of fresh flavor? Thai-inspired chicken cakes are a simple option that combines minced chicken with aromatic ginger, garlic, coriander, and green chilli.

Pan-fried until golden and served with sweet chilli sauce, they offer a pleasant balance of savory, fresh, and mildly spicy notes.

Ingredients You Will Need

For approximately 2–3 servings:

2 large boneless, skinless chicken, about 175 g each

1 garlic clove, roughly chopped

1 small piece of fresh ginger, peeled and roughly chopped

1 small onion, roughly chopped

4 tablespoons fresh coriander, plus extra sprigs for serving

1 green chilli, seeds removed and roughly chopped

2 tablespoons olive oil

Sweet chilli sauce, for serving

Lime wedges, to serve

Shredded spring onion, for garnish

Thinly sliced red chilli, for garnish

Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to taste.

Preparing the Chicken Mixture

The key to getting an even texture is combining the chicken and aromatics thoroughly. A food processor makes this task easier, breaking the ingredients into a fine mixture that can be shaped without needing a separate coating. Use fresh ginger and coriander for the best flavor. Removing the green chilli seeds before blending also helps keep the heat more manageable. The mixture should hold together when pressed, making it easier to form neat portions.

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients. Cut the chicken into small cubes and place them in a food processor. Add the chopped garlic, ginger, onion, fresh coriander, and prepared green chilli. Season with salt and black pepper. Process until the chicken is finely ground and all the ingredients are evenly combined. Avoid blending for longer than necessary, as the mixture should remain manageable rather than becoming overly smooth.

2. Shape the cakes. Transfer the mixture to a clean bowl. Divide it into six portions and use slightly damp hands to form each one into a small, even cake. Press gently so the portions hold their shape, keeping their thickness reasonably consistent to encourage even cooking.

3. Heat the oil. Place a large frying pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm before adding the chicken portions. Arrange them in the pan with enough room between each one so they can cook evenly. Work in batches when necessary rather than overcrowding the pan.

4. Cook until golden. Fry the chicken cakes for approximately 6–8 minutes in total, turning them once during cooking. Adjust the heat when needed so the outside develops a golden surface without browning too quickly. Make sure the centers are fully cooked; chicken should reach an internal temperature of 74°C.

5. Prepare the serving plate. Transfer the cooked portions to a serving dish. Add sweet chilli sauce in a small bowl or spoon a little alongside the chicken. Arrange lime wedges around the plate, then finish with fresh coriander, shredded spring onion, and red chilli.

6. Serve while warm. Bring the chicken cakes to the table soon after cooking, while their centers are still tender. Offer additional sauce and lime so everyone can adjust the flavor to their preference.

Serving Ideas and Simple Variations

A fresh green salad is a natural accompaniment. Crisp leafy vegetables, watercress, and rocket provide a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken cakes. A squeeze of lime just before eating can also brighten the overall flavor. For a more filling meal, serve the cakes with steamed rice or alongside lightly cooked vegetables. Those who prefer a milder taste can use less chilli in the mixture, while anyone who enjoys extra heat can add more fresh chilli at the table.

Preparation Tips

Keep the portions similar in size so they cook at roughly the same rate. Damp hands can make shaping easier and prevent the mixture from sticking too much. Also, allow the pan to heat before adding the chicken, as this helps create a golden exterior. The cakes can be prepared ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator until cooking time. Keep uncooked chicken separate from ready-to-eat ingredients, and cook it thoroughly before serving.

Thai chicken cakes are a practical way to turn a few everyday ingredients into a flavorful meal. Fresh ginger, garlic, coriander, and chilli give the chicken plenty of character, while sweet chilli sauce provides a tasty finishing touch. Pair them with a crisp salad or rice for a simple lunch or dinner that comes together without a complicated preparation routine.