These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional meat patties. Infused with vibrant herbs and spices like garlic, oregano, and parsley, these patties offer a light, yet satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Paired with a creamy tzatziki sauce, they bring the tastes of the Mediterranean straight to your plate. Whether served as a main course or in a pita, these chicken patties are sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are packed with fresh, vibrant flavors, making them the perfect balance of light yet satisfying. Ground chicken provides a lean protein base, while ingredients like fresh parsley, garlic, and feta cheese bring a Mediterranean twist. The patties are juicy on the inside with a slightly crisp exterior. Paired with tangy tzatziki sauce or a light salad, they are both refreshing and flavorful. These patties are versatile, easy to make, and great for meal prep, making them a perfect weeknight dinner or lunch option!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be firm but slightly sticky.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter, pressing gently to flatten.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the pan, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Serve the patties with a drizzle of lemon juice and a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. You can also serve them with a Greek salad or in pita bread for a Mediterranean wrap.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4-6
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Variations
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate grated zucchini, finely chopped spinach, or bell peppers into the patty mixture for extra veggies and moisture.
- Make it Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour to keep these patties gluten-free.
- Spicy Chicken Patties: Add some chopped fresh chili peppers or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Baked Version: For a healthier option, bake the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to swap out the parsley for other fresh herbs like mint or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked patties on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or heat them in a skillet until warmed through.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works perfectly in this recipe as a substitute for chicken. The flavor will be slightly different, but still delicious.
2. Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Yes, baking is a great alternative for a lighter option. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
3. Can I make these patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the patties ahead of time, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, and cook them when ready. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to 3 months and cook from frozen.
4. Can I add more spices to the patties?
Yes! Feel free to add more spices such as coriander, cinnamon, or cumin for a more intense flavor. Adjust the seasoning to your taste.
5. Is there a vegetarian option for these patties?
For a vegetarian version, you can use chickpeas or lentils as a base and add some crumbled feta and spices. You can also use tofu or a plant-based meat substitute to create a similar texture.
6. Can I make these patties spicier?
Yes, you can add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or fresh diced chili peppers to the mixture for some heat.
7. Can I serve these patties in a pita?
Yes, these chicken patties are great in pita bread, along with some fresh vegetables and tzatziki sauce for a Mediterranean-inspired wrap.
8. Can I use a different cheese instead of feta?
Yes, you can substitute feta with ricotta, goat cheese, or mozzarella. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary depending on the cheese used.
9. Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
You can substitute the breadcrumbs with oats or ground almonds for a gluten-free alternative. The texture may vary slightly, but it will still hold together well.
10. Can I freeze the uncooked patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Arrange them on a baking sheet, freeze them until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe container. Cook them directly from the freezer when you’re ready.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are an easy and delicious way to bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen. The combination of lean chicken, aromatic herbs, and tangy feta cheese makes these patties a wholesome meal that’s perfect for a quick dinner or meal prep. Whether you serve them with tzatziki, on a salad, or in a pita, they are sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Give them a try and enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean in every bite!
Mediterranean Chicken Patties
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a healthy, flavorful alternative to traditional meat patties. Infused with fresh herbs, spices, and tangy feta cheese, they provide a light yet satisfying meal. Paired with a creamy tzatziki sauce, they bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean straight to your plate. Perfect for dinner, lunch, or meal prep, these chicken patties will impress everyone!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for frying)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Tzatziki sauce (for serving)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, cumin, paprika, egg, salt, and pepper.
- Mix everything together until well combined. The mixture should be firm but slightly sticky.
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small patties, about 3 inches in diameter, pressing gently to flatten.
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the pan, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
- Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest on a plate lined with paper towels.
- Serve the patties with a drizzle of lemon juice and a side of tzatziki sauce for dipping. You can also serve them with a Greek salad or in pita bread for a Mediterranean wrap.
Notes
- Storage: Store leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: To freeze, place the cooked patties on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag and store for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or heat them in a skillet until warmed through.
- Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes until heated through.
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