Why You’ll Love Broodje Kipfrikandel Recipe

Combines two homemade elements: the bun and the chicken frikandel
Healthier and more customizable than store-bought versions
Great for meal prep or family lunches
Dutch street food made easy and accessible
Simple ingredients with big flavor
Perfect with your favorite sauces like curry ketchup or garlic mayo
Freezer-friendly
Fun project for a weekend cook
Kid-friendly and lunchbox-approved
Ideal for gatherings or quick dinners

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Dough:
water (lukewarm)
milk (lukewarm)
honey
instant yeast
egg
all-purpose or patent flour
salt

For the Chicken Frikandel:
chicken thigh mince
salt
onion powder
garlic powder
paprika powder
cayenne pepper
black pepper
sweet soy sauce (ketjap manis)

To Cook and Assemble:
sunflower oil (for greasing hands and pan-frying)
egg (beaten, for brushing the buns)

Directions

In a bowl, mix lukewarm water, lukewarm milk, honey, and yeast. Let sit for 5 minutes until foamy.
Add in the egg, flour, and salt. Knead into a soft, elastic dough (about 10–12 minutes).
Cover and let the dough rise for about an hour or until doubled in size.
Meanwhile, prepare the chicken mixture. Combine minced chicken with spices and ketjap manis. Mix until sticky and smooth.
Grease your hands and shape the mixture into long sausage forms (like hot dogs). Wrap tightly in cling film and chill for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
Boil water in a large pot. Gently place the wrapped frikandellen into the water and poach for 15–20 minutes. Remove, unwrap, and let cool.
Punch down the dough and divide it into equal portions. Shape into smooth rolls and place on a lined baking tray.
Cover and let rise again for about 30 minutes.
Brush each roll with beaten egg and bake at 180°C (356°F) for 20–25 minutes until golden.
Just before serving, fry or brown the frikandellen in a little oil for extra flavor.
Slice the rolls, insert the frikandel, and serve warm with sauces of your choice.

Servings and timing

Servings: Makes about 10 sandwiches
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Rising Time: 90 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: ~2 hours 35 minutes

Variations

Spicy Version: Add chili flakes or sambal to the chicken mixture
Cheesy Frikandel: Insert a stick of cheese into the center of the sausage before cooking
Vegetarian Option: Use plant-based mince with similar seasonings
Mini Buns: Create bite-sized versions for parties or kids
Loaded Toppings: Add sautéed onions, lettuce, or pickles for more texture

Storage/Reheating

Frikandellen: Store cooked frikandellen in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze up to 3 months
Rolls: Once baked and cooled, freeze rolls in an airtight bag for up to 1 month
Reheating: Warm frikandellen in a pan or oven until heated through. Reheat buns in the oven at 180°C for 5–8 minutes to refresh

FAQs

What is a frikandel?

A frikandel is a Dutch skinless sausage, typically made from minced meat and spices, often served fried and inside a bun.

Can I make the frikandellen without boiling them first?

Boiling helps set the shape and cook them evenly. Skipping this step may lead to uneven cooking or breaking during frying.

Is this recipe spicy?

The base recipe is mildly spiced. You can easily adjust the cayenne or paprika to suit your spice level.

Can I use ground chicken breast instead of thigh?

Yes, but thigh meat offers a juicier result. Breast may be drier, so consider adding a bit of oil to the mix.

Can I prep the chicken mixture in advance?

Absolutely. The chicken mix can be prepared and refrigerated up to 24 hours in advance.

How do I get smooth, professional-looking frikandellen?

Shape them with oiled hands and wrap tightly in plastic wrap before boiling for even results.

Can I bake the frikandellen instead of frying?

Yes. Bake them at 200°C for about 15–20 minutes, turning halfway, though frying gives a crispier finish.

What sauces go best with broodje kipfrikandel?

Curry ketchup, mayonnaise, garlic sauce, or sriracha mayo are all excellent choices.

How long does the dough need to rise?

Typically, the dough rises for 1 hour first, then 30 minutes after shaping.

Can I freeze assembled broodjes?

It’s best to freeze rolls and frikandellen separately and assemble fresh for best texture.

Conclusion

Broodje kipfrikandel is the ultimate homemade version of a Dutch snack bar classic. Soft rolls cradle juicy, seasoned chicken sausages for a sandwich that’s both comforting and full of flavor. With simple ingredients and step-by-step preparation, this recipe transforms a street food favorite into a family-friendly homemade meal you’ll want to make again and again.