Mediterranean Chicken Patties

If you’re looking for a dish that brings a burst of flavor and warmth to your table, these Mediterranean Chicken Patties are just what you need! They combine the zest of fresh herbs with the heartiness of lean chicken, making them a delightful treat for any meal. I love whipping these up for busy weeknights or when friends come over for a casual gathering. Everyone from kids to adults can’t get enough of them!

The beauty of these patties is their versatility. You can serve them in pita bread, on top of a crisp salad, or even as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauces. No matter how you enjoy them, they’re sure to become a family favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it perfect for those busy nights.
• Family-Friendly: With their mild flavors and fun shape, these patties appeal to both kids and adults alike.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Made with lean chicken and packed with veggies, they offer a nutritious option without sacrificing taste.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep the patties ahead of time, and store them in the fridge or freezer for meals later in the week.
• Flavorful Customization: Feel free to mix in different herbs or spices, so you can tailor them to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we need to create this delicious meal!

• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
• 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
• 1 lb. ground chicken
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients for a unique twist each time.

• Swap the protein: If ground chicken isn’t available, try using ground turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra greens: Toss in some chopped kale or arugula alongside the spinach for added nutrients.
• Change up the spices: Try different herbs like parsley or mint to give your patties a new flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs for a safe option.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Start by sautéing the diced onion in 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it becomes translucent—this usually takes about 5 minutes. Adding garlic after ensures that it doesn’t burn; cook it just long enough (about 30 seconds) to release its fragrant aroma. This step builds a flavorful base for your patties!

Step 2: Mix Everything Together

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything until well combined; this is where all those vibrant flavors come together! It’s essential that everything is mixed evenly so each patty is packed with goodness.

Step 3: Shape into Patties

Now it’s time to shape our mixture into approximately eight patties that are about half an inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly while keeping them tender inside.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties into the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Cooking them at medium heat prevents burning while allowing their flavor to develop beautifully.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked through, drain the patties on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve them warm with your choice of garnishes! These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect as a main dish or as part of an appetizer spread—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Creating the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Patties is a breeze with these helpful tips!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill and other herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a pop of color and nutrition to your patties.

• Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients to keep the patties tender. Overmixing can lead to a dense texture, which we want to avoid.

• Chill before cooking: Allowing the shaped patties to chill in the refrigerator for about 20 minutes helps them maintain their shape while cooking, preventing them from falling apart.

• Monitor heat: Cooking on medium heat ensures that the patties cook through without burning. Adjust as needed based on your stove’s heat output.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to customize the spice mix by adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or swapping out oregano for your favorite herb; this adds a unique twist to each batch!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways that truly showcase their flavor.

Garnishes

• Chopped cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds a crunchy texture and refreshing taste that complements the savory patties beautifully.

• Cherry tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes provide a sweet burst of flavor, making them an attractive and tasty garnish.

• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon brightens up the dish, enhancing all the flavors with its zesty touch.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A classic combination of cucumbers, tomatoes, bell peppers, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil makes for a colorful and refreshing side that complements the richness of the patties.

• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This light and zesty salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice pairs perfectly with the Mediterranean flavors while providing extra protein.

• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted until tender bring an earthy sweetness that balances out the savory chicken patties.

• Hummus and Pita Chips: Creamy hummus served with crispy pita chips offers an excellent dipping option alongside your chicken patties for an added layer of flavor.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips in hand, you’re ready to impress family and friends with your delicious Mediterranean Chicken Patties! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a batch in advance, making them a convenient option for busy weeknights or gatherings. Here’s how to store and preserve their freshness.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the patties to cool completely before storing.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Let the patties cool completely.
• Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• Label and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• From the refrigerator: Heat in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through.
• From the freezer: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then reheat as above. Alternatively, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions that might arise regarding these delightful Mediterranean Chicken Patties.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still result in delicious patties. Just ensure it’s lean to keep them healthy.

How do I enhance the flavor of Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

You can enhance the flavor by adding more herbs like parsley or mint, or even spices such as coriander or cumin. Get creative with your seasoning!

Can I make these Mediterranean Chicken Patties gluten-free?

Yes, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. The patties will still hold together beautifully!

How do I know when the Mediterranean Chicken Patties are cooked through?

The patties should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). They should be golden brown on the outside and no longer pink inside.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try these Mediterranean Chicken Patties as I am! They truly bring a burst of flavor to any meal, whether you’re enjoying them as part of a family dinner or prepping for a busy week ahead. Remember, cooking should be fun and rewarding, so don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors that you love. Enjoy every bite!