Lazy Microwave Chicken Patty With Instant Freekeh

Craving a hearty meal but short on time? We’ve got your back—this microwave hack delivers a protein-packed plate in under 10 minutes without sacrificing flavor. Bonus: zero pots to scrub afterward.

Think frozen chicken patties are just for burgers? Think again. Paired with nutty freekeh (an ancient grain superstar), this combo transforms into a balanced meal that’s shockingly satisfying. No culinary skills required—just a microwave and a craving.

Below, we’ll break down microwaving tricks, flavor-boosting tips, and storage hacks to keep your lazy dinners deliciously reliable.

What is a Microwave Chicken Patty and Freekeh?

Picture this: my mom Linda once rescued her holiday party spread by microwaving frozen chicken patties for last-minute sliders. Paired with instant freekeh (cracked green wheat roasted for smoky depth), it’s a lazy cook’s dream duo. The patty brings salty crunch, while freekeh adds chewy texture and a fiber boost—like brown rice’s cooler cousin.

Freekeh cooks faster than quinoa and packs 8g protein per ½ cup. Combined with a pre-cooked chicken patty (think Tyson or Gardein), this meal balances convenience and nutrition. John, my perpetually late husband, calls it “emergency fuel” for nights when takeout isn’t fast enough.

Can You Microwave Frozen Chicken Patties?

Absolutely—we do it weekly! The key is avoiding the hockey puck effect. Microwaving frozen patties at 50% power for 2 minutes, flipping halfway, keeps them juicy. This method works perfectly for microwave frozen hamburger patties, allowing them to retain their flavor and moisture. USDA confirms it’s safe if the internal temp hits 165°F (use a $12 Taylor thermometer).

Safety and Efficiency Of Microwaving Frozen Patties

Unlike oven baking (20+ minutes), microwaving zaps patties in 3-4 minutes. Cover with a damp paper towel to lock in moisture—dryness defeated! Brands vary, so check packaging. Our rule: 90 seconds per side in an 1100W microwave.

Fun fact: John once nuked a patty straight from the freezer onto a paper plate during the Super Bowl. Zero dishes, maximum victory. Just ensure no metal clings to the packaging. Pro tip: your microwave’s defrost setting isn’t just a mysterious button—it’s your patty’s BFF, especially when you’re dealing with plant-based ones like Beyond Burgers, or just your average lazy microwave chicken patty with instant freekeh.

Now that we’ve nailed the basics, let’s talk about why this combo deserves a permanent spot in your freezer.

Benefits Of Microwaving Chicken Patties and Freekeh

We’ve all had those days when even boiling water feels like a marathon. That’s where this duo shines—zero prep, zero stress. My neighbor Dave (a dad of twin toddlers) swears by this combo for “surviving the 5 p.m. chaos” while still feeling vaguely adult.

Quick Meal Solutions for Busy Days

Microwaving frozen patties cuts cooking time to under 4 minutes versus 20+ minutes in the oven. Pair it with instant freekeh (ready in 90 seconds), and you’ve got a meal faster than DoorDash. Bonus: fewer dishes than assembling a salad.

Freekeh’s fiber keeps you full, while the patty’s protein avoids post-meal snack raids. It’s the culinary equivalent of a seatbelt—simple, reliable, and oddly comforting when life’s moving too fast.

Also See: Microwave Peanut Butter Banana Mug Cake in 5 Minutes!

Ingredients for Microwave Chicken Patty and Freekeh

Grab these staples next time your freezer feels like a culinary ghost town. Pro tip: keep backup patties behind the pizza rolls—they’ll actually get eaten. And when you’re in a pinch for a quick snack, consider creating lazy microwave frozen pizza rolls nachos—they’re a fun twist that combines crispy, cheesy goodness in minutes.

Frozen Chicken Patty and Substitutes

We use Tyson’s crispy patties (no thawing needed!), but Gardein’s plant-based ones work too. Out of chicken patties? Swap in a pre-cooked turkey burger or even a veggie nugget stash. Texture matters here—aim for something that crisps without becoming a cardboard tribute.

Instant Freekeh and Alternative Grains

Instant freekeh (like Bob’s Red Mill) steams in minutes, but quinoa or bulgur work in a pinch. Avoid steel-cut oats—they’ll outlast your patience. Freekeh’s smoky, nutty flavor pairs perfectly with the patty’s savory crunch, like they met at a microwave speed-dating event. Adding a freekeh salad to your summer bowl can be a refreshing twist. Utilizing microwave grains like freekeh makes it easy to whip up a nutritious dish in no time.

Also See: Healthy 2-minute Microwave Veggie Chips (No Oil!)

How to Microwave Chicken Patty and Freekeh

John once tried microwaving both at the same time. Spoiler: the freekeh exploded. Follow these steps to avoid his “grain grenade” phase. Proper microwaving can also help ensure that leftovers are safe to eat, as it kills harmful germs that may develop over time. When reheating food, it’s important to evenly heat all portions to effectively eliminate any bacteria present.

Step-by-step Chicken Patty Instructions

1. Place patty on a microwave-safe plate lined with a damp paper towel (prevents Sahara-level dryness).
2. Microwave at 50% power for 2 minutes. Flip, then zap 1-2 minutes more until internal temp hits 165°F.
3. Let rest 1 minute—steam will redistribute juices. No one likes a weepy patty.

Microwaving Instant Freekeh Perfectly

1. Combine ½ cup freekeh and 1 cup water in a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a vented lid or plate.
2. Microwave on high 3 minutes. Stir, then cook 2 more minutes. Fluff with a fork—it should taste pilaf-level fluffy, not gummy.

Combining the Dish for Best Flavor

Slice the patty into strips and lay them over the freekeh. Drizzle with hot sauce or tzatziki (Linda’s move) for zing. Add frozen peas to the grain before microwaving—they’ll thaw by mealtime. Mix textures: crunchy patty, chewy grain, maybe a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning. For a quick and easy meal, pairing the chicken patty with instant amaranth offers a nutritious and satisfying option. This combination is perfect for those lazy days when a hearty meal is still desired without much fuss.

Now that your plate’s ready, let’s talk about why this tastes better than “microwave meal” implies… Microwaves can elevate the flavor of certain dishes in ways that baking simply cannot. Many foods can actually taste better when microwaved due to how heat is distributed, which is especially true for some of your favorites.

What Does This Microwave Meal Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a fast-food chicken sandwich… but better. The patty’s crispy edges give way to tender meat (or plant-based protein), while the freekeh offers a toasted, slightly smoky chew—like brown rice decided to vacation in a wood-fired oven. Together, they’re savory comfort with zero guilt. For an even easier meal option, consider whipping up a lazy microwave frozen chicken patty sandwich. It’s a quick way to enjoy delicious flavors without the fuss of cooking from scratch.

Texture and Flavor Profile

That first forkful? Crunchy meets chewy, saltiness dances with earthy depth. Microwaving preserves the patty’s crispy coating if you follow our damp towel trick—no sad, soggy breading here. Freekeh’s natural nuttiness (from roasting young wheat) balances the patty’s richness, creating a meal that’s hearty without feeling heavy, unlike some lazy microwave chicken tenders and instant freekeh meals.

John once dubbed this “adult Lunchables,” and honestly? We’re not mad. Drizzle with lemon tahini or Sriracha mayo to amp up the flavor symphony. It’s the kind of meal that makes you forget it took 8 minutes flat.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Yes, leftovers exist—barely. But when they do, we’ve got hacks to revive them without the dreaded microwave mush. Pro tip: store components separately. Patty goes in an airtight container; freekeh chills in its own bowl. They’ll stay fresh for 3 days max—any longer, and the grain gets suspiciously sticky.

Preserving Moisture in Chicken Patties

Reheating patties requires finesse. Place them on a plate with a damp paper towel tent (not smothered—they need to breathe!). Microwave at 50% power for 45 seconds, flip, then 30 seconds more. Check temp: 165°F or bust. Linda swears by brushing a smidge of broth on the patty pre-reheat for extra juiciness.

Refreshing Freekeh for Later Use

Freekeh tends to clump when cold. Loosen it with a fork, then sprinkle 1 tsp water per cup before microwaving. Cover and heat 1 minute, stir, then 30 seconds more. Add a pat of butter or olive oil to restore its lush texture. John adds frozen corn before reheating—”stealth veggies” he’ll actually eat. For a quick meal, pairing freekeh with lazy microwave frozen chicken nuggets creates an easy yet satisfying dish. The instant freekeh serves as a healthy base that complements the crispy nuggets perfectly.

Even the best meals can go sideways if we cut corners. Let’s tackle common microwave mishaps before they strike. It’s important to note that certain foods are often microwaved incorrectly, leading to less than desirable results. Understanding how to microwave food properly is key to avoiding these common pitfalls.

Now It’s Your Turn to Try!

We’ve walked you through every step—from safely microwaving frozen chicken patties to perfectly cooking instant freekeh in minutes. This lazy meal delivers protein-packed crunch and nutty whole grain goodness without the fuss.

Give it a shot next time hunger strikes but time’s tight. Drop us a comment about your favorite quick-cook combos—we’re always hunting for new microwave hacks!