Barbecue Chicken Rissoles with Smoky Tomato Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Australian-style chicken rissoles seasoned with barbecue spices, pan-fried and served with a rich smoky tomato sauce. This australian-inspired chicken ready in about 40 minutes blends ground chicken, breadcrumbs, large egg into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 20 min Serves 4 Australian cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

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Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, combine 1 lb ground chicken, 1/2 cup breadcrumbs, 1 large beaten egg, 1 small finely chopped yellow onion, 1 minced garlic clove, 2 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp ground cumin, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Mix until just combined.
  2. Step 2: Shape the mixture into 8 equal oval-shaped rissoles (about 3 inches each). Place on a plate and chill for 15 minutes to firm up.
  3. Step 3: Heat 3 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rissoles and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through. Remove and keep warm.
  4. Step 4: In the same skillet, add 1 1/2 cups canned crushed tomatoes, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce, 1 tsp brown sugar, and 1/4 tsp chili flakes if using. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 8-10 minutes until thickened and smoky.
  5. Step 5: Return the rissoles to the skillet, spoon the smoky tomato sauce over them, and heat for 2 more minutes before serving.

Frequently asked questions

How long does Barbecue Chicken Rissoles with Smoky Tomato Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 40 minutes (20 min prep + 20 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Barbecue Chicken Rissoles with Smoky Tomato Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Barbecue Chicken Rissoles with Smoky Tomato Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Barbecue Chicken Rissoles with Smoky Tomato Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Barbecue Chicken Rissoles with Smoky Tomato Sauce?

Australian chicken like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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