Chicken of the Sea Salmon Patty Recipe: Crispy Outside, Flaky Inside

I’ve perfected a crispy Chicken of the Sea salmon patty recipe that’s ready in just 15 minutes. This recipe transforms canned salmon into a flaky, restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

The secret to achieving that perfect crispy exterior lies in the simple technique of coating the patties with panko breadcrumbs and pan-frying them at the right temperature. Serve with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients for Chicken of the Sea Salmon Patty

Simple ingredients come together to create these crispy salmon patties.

For the best results, use high-quality canned salmon from Chicken of the Sea. Look for wild-caught salmon for better flavor and texture. Fresh parsley adds a bright note—don’t skip it. If you’re using a different brand of canned salmon, check that it’s well-drained before flaking.

No panko? Regular breadcrumbs work, but panko gives a lighter coating. Want more flavor? Add some diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For an extra crispy coating, try chilling the patties for 30 minutes before frying. If you’re out of Old Bay, paprika with a pinch of garlic powder is a good substitute.

These patties keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain crispiness. You can also freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken of the Sea Salmon Patties

Here’s the method to achieve perfectly crispy salmon patties with a flaky interior every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture

Start by draining the 1 can Canned Salmon and flaking it into a large mixing bowl. Add the 0.5 whole Red Bell Pepper and 0.25 whole Yellow Onion that have been finely chopped. Mix in the 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley, 1 tbsp Lemon Juice, 1 tsp Dijon Mustard, 0.5 tsp Old Bay Seasoning, 0.25 tsp Salt, and 0.25 tsp Black Pepper until well combined.

The mixture should be moist but not wet. If it feels too dry, you can add a little more lemon juice. The key is to have everything evenly distributed so that each patty has a good balance of flavors.

Step 2: Form the Salmon Patties

Add the 1 whole Large Egg to the salmon mixture and gently mix until the egg is fully incorporated. The egg will help bind the mixture together. Then, add the 1 cup Panko Breadcrumbs and gently fold them into the mixture until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties dense.

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Make sure the edges are smooth and the patties are evenly sized so that they cook uniformly.

Step 3: Pan-Fry the Salmon Patties

Heat the 2 tbsp Olive Oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until the oil is hot but not smoking. Carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy on the outside.

The patties are done when they reach an internal temperature of 145°F and flake easily with a fork. Be gentle when flipping them to avoid breaking. If the patties start to brown too quickly, reduce the heat to medium.

Step 4: Serve the Salmon Patties

Once the salmon patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and place them on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess oil. Serve them hot with your choice of sides, such as a fresh salad or roasted vegetables. The patties should be crispy on the outside and flaky on the inside, with a delicious seafood flavor enhanced by the Old Bay Seasoning.

For the best experience, serve immediately while the patties are still warm and crispy. You can also serve them on a bun as a sandwich with your favorite toppings.

Perfect Pairings for This Recipe

Classic Side Dishes

These salmon patties pair beautifully with simple sides that complement their crispy exterior and flaky interior. I love serving them with a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light meal. The citrus notes enhance the salmon’s flavor without overpowering it. For a heartier option, roasted asparagus or steamed broccoli work wonderfully, adding a nice contrast in texture. 🌿

Comfort Food Pairings

For a more comforting meal, try pairing the salmon patties with mashed potatoes or creamy coleslaw. The richness of the potatoes or the coolness of the slaw balances the crispy, savory patties perfectly. If you’re in the mood for something different, a side of garlic bread can add a satisfying crunch to your meal. 🍞

Sandwich Style

Serving these salmon patties on a soft brioche bun transforms them into a delicious sandwich. Add some lettuce, tomato slices, and a dollop of tartar sauce or aioli for a restaurant-quality experience. You can also top them with pickles or pickled red onions for an extra burst of flavor. 🥗

Refreshing Accompaniments

A side of cucumber salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the salmon patties. For a bit of zest, add some thinly sliced red onions or a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill to your salad. These additions not only add flavor but also a pop of color to your plate. 🌸

Wine and Beverage Pairings

If you’re looking to elevate your meal, consider pairing the salmon patties with a glass of dry white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, a fresh lemonade or iced tea with lemon can cleanse your palate between bites. The citrus notes in these drinks complement the seafood flavors beautifully. 🍹

Frequently Asked Questions