Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti

Name: Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 28 min
Total time: 38 min
Cuisine: Ukrainian
Ingredients: 2 lbs ground chicken; 1 medium onion; 4 oz crackers; 3/4 cup whole milk; 5 cloves garlic; 1/2 tbsp salt; 1/2 tbsp black pepper; 7 tbsp avocado oil for frying

By:

Alejandro

Published:

May 16, 2026

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Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti, or chicken cutlets, is not just a dish; it’s a warm embrace on a plate. With golden, crispy edges and flavorful, juicy centers, each bite transports you to a cozy kitchen where the air is filled with the delightful aroma of garlic and fried goodness. This recipe showcases a hearty combination of ground chicken and simple ingredients that come together in harmony to create a wonderfully satisfying meal.

It reminds me of family gatherings where my grandmother would whip up a large batch, and everyone would gather around the table, diving into crispy kotleti with fresh bread and creamy garlic sauce. The blend of simple, accessible ingredients makes these Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti not just delicious but also a budget-friendly dish ideal for any weeknight. I can hardly wait for you to experience the joy of making—and devouring—these irresistible cutlets.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: You can prepare and cook these kotleti in about 40 minutes, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic, onion, and perfectly seasoned ground chicken creates a mouthwatering taste that leaves you wanting more.
Eye-Catching Appeal: These oval patties have a crispy exterior and a tender interior, making them not only delicious but visually appealing on the dinner table.
Flexible Serving: Whether served alongside a fresh salad, on a bun as a sandwich, or as part of a larger meal, they’re perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a snack.
Diet-Friendly Options: Enjoy preparing gluten-free versions by swapping out crackers for gluten-free breadcrumbs. Your dietary preferences can easily shine through!

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 lbs ground chicken: Use either chicken breasts or thighs for a juicy patty. Ground chicken is lighter yet retains enough moisture to keep the kotleti tender.
1 medium onion: Finely grated or blended to add a subtle sweetness and moisture to the mixture. Don’t skip this; it’s essential for flavor!
4 oz crackers: About 22 original crisp crackers will work well; they add texture and crunch. You can also use bread crumbs or panko if you prefer.
3/4 cup whole milk: This not only helps bind the mixture together but also adds richness. Substituting with a dairy alternative works great as well.
5 cloves garlic: Crush them for an aromatic boost—garlic enhances the flavor profile significantly.
1/2 tbsp salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the kotleti.
1/2 tbsp black pepper: A dash of pepper gives it just the right amount of kick.
7 tbsp avocado oil: Great for frying due to its high smoke point, ensuring those cutlets achieve that golden-brown crust without burning.

How to Make Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti

Prepare the Cracker Mixture: In a small bowl, crush the crackers with your hands until finely crumbled. Stir in 3/4 cup of milk until it forms a wet paste. Set aside; this will help keep the kotleti moist.
Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine 2 lbs of ground chicken, 5 cloves of crushed garlic, 1/2 tbsp of salt, and 1/2 tbsp of black pepper. Add the cracker and milk mixture, then use your hands to mix until everything is thoroughly combined and sticky.
Heat the Skillet: In a 12-inch skillet, heat 7 tbsp of avocado oil over medium heat (around 350°F). This helps create that beautiful, crispy exterior while cooking the chicken through.
Shape the Patties: Using a 1/4 measuring cup, scoop out the meat mixture and form it into oval patties. Make sure they are evenly sized for uniform cooking. Place 8 to 9 patties in the skillet, ensuring space between them.
Cook the Kotleti: Fry each side for about 3-5 minutes until they are browned and cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, which should reach 165°F. Once cooked, transfer the patties to a dish lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
Serve and Enjoy: These kotleti are best served warm. Pair them with a fresh salad, a dollop of sour cream, or a tangy dipping sauce for added flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store any extras at room temperature for a few hours or refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. You can freeze Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag or container after they’re frozen solid. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until heated through, or pop them in the oven at 350°F for around 10-15 minutes. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly when reheating, but a quick crisping up in a skillet can refresh their golden allure.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid Overmixing: When combining your ingredients, mix until well combined but be careful not to overwork the meat. This helps maintain a tender texture.
Even Sizes for Cooking: Try to make all patties uniform in size for even cooking. If they’re uneven, some will be overcooked while others are undercooked.
Temperature Matters: Let your ground chicken sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before mixing. This helps it bind better with the batter.
Adjust for Flavor: If you prefer a bit of heat, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne or paprika to the meat mixture for an exciting twist.
Make Ahead: You can prepare the mixture a day in advance and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook.

Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti offers the delightful blend of simplicity and flavor that makes kitchen time rewarding. The combination of a crispy exterior and juicy interior is simply irresistible. Feel free to play around with the ingredients or serving styles—these cutlets truly shine in versatile formats, whether you’re enjoying them as leftovers or serving them fresh. It’s all about finding what speaks to you and turning it into a delicious meal to share.

Recipe FAQs

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is an excellent substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. It will impart a slightly different flavor but will still yield a delicious kotleti. Just ensure to monitor cooking time as turkey may cook a bit differently.

What can I serve with Ukrainian Chicken Kotleti?

These cutlets pair wonderfully with a range of sides. Serve them with creamy mashed potatoes, a crisp green salad, or even tucked into a warm bun for a tasty sandwich.

Can these cutlets be baked instead of fried?

Yes! For a healthier option, baking is a great alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place the shaped kotleti on the sheet and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through until they’re golden and cooked through.

How long do leftovers last?

When stored properly in the refrigerator, your leftover kotleti will last for up to 3 days. Reheating them in a skillet will help restore their crispy texture while keeping the flavor intact.