This Chicken and Pork Katleti recipe features juicy ground chicken and pork blended with breadcrumbs, onions, and seasonings, then pan-fried to golden perfection. A classic Russian dish, these flavorful meat patties are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfect for family dinners, meal prepping, or a quick weeknight meal, these katleti are simple to make and versatile. Serve with mashed potatoes, rice, or fresh vegetables for a complete, satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

1 lb ground pork
1 lb ground chicken
1 egg
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 medium onion, grated or finely diced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1 tablespoon water (if needed)
1/2 cup Italian breadcrumbs for meat mixture
1 1/2 cups Italian breadcrumbs to coat katleti

Instructions:

Cut the chicken and pork into strips and pass them through a meat grinder using a medium or large disk.
In a large bowl, mix together the ground pork and chicken, egg, mayonnaise, grated onion, salt, pepper, and 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs. Combine well. If the mixture feels too dry, add 1 tablespoon of water.
Form the mixture into 1-inch patties (katleti), slightly flattening them rather than forming perfect balls. Roll each patty in the remaining 1 1/2 cups of breadcrumbs to coat.
Heat 1/4 cup of oil (canola, grapeseed, or sunflower oil) in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the katleti in batches, turning them a couple of times to ensure even browning. Add more oil as needed for subsequent batches. Cook the katleti until golden brown and fully cooked through.
Serve warm with your favorite sides.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chicken and Pork Katleti are flavorful and versatile, offering a perfect balance of tender meat, crispy breading, and savory seasoning. They’re quick to prepare, making them an excellent choice for busy weeknights or weekend meals. The combination of chicken and pork ensures a juicy texture while the breadcrumbs create a satisfying crunch. Plus, they can be served with various sides or even used in sandwiches for a delicious on-the-go meal.

Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

Seasoning: Adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also add garlic powder, paprika, or herbs like parsley or dill for extra flavor.
Breadcrumbs: If you prefer, use plain breadcrumbs or panko for a different texture.
Egg substitute: If you need an egg-free version, try using a flax egg or a small amount of mashed potatoes as a binder.
Grilling option: For a healthier twist, you can grill the katleti instead of pan-frying them.

FAQs

Can I freeze katleti? Yes, you can freeze uncooked katleti by placing them on a baking sheet in a single layer. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. You can cook them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Can I make these without a meat grinder? If you don’t have a meat grinder, you can buy pre-ground chicken and pork or use a food processor to grind the meat.

Serving

These delicious chicken and pork katleti are perfect when served with mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh salad. They also pair wonderfully with a side of sour cream or a tangy dipping sauce like tzatziki. For a light meal, serve them alongside sautéed vegetables or roasted potatoes.

Suggestions

Serve these katleti with a side of Russian-style potato salad or pickles for an authentic experience.
You can also serve them with a simple tomato sauce or a creamy mustard sauce for extra flavor.