Mediterranean Chicken Patties

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal that brings the flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen, then these Mediterranean Chicken Patties are just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a family favorite in my home. The combination of fresh herbs, savory spices, and lean ground chicken makes for tender patties that are bursting with flavor. They’re perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or whenever you’re craving something satisfying yet wholesome.

These patties are not only easy to make but also versatile enough to serve in various ways. Whether you enjoy them stuffed into pita bread with your favorite toppings or on a bed of crisp greens, they promise to be a hit with everyone—kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip these up in no time!
• Family-friendly: These tasty patties are sure to please even the pickiest eaters at your table.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.
• Flavorful & healthy: Packed with fresh ingredients and spices, they’re a guilt-free indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The best part about these Mediterranean Chicken Patties is that they use simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather everything we’ll need to create this delicious dish!

• 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 great things about these Mediterranean Chicken Patties is how flexible they are! You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or lean beef instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more greens: Toss in some grated zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers for extra veggies.
• Change up the spices: Experiment with different herbs like parsley or mint for a unique flavor profile.
• Make it gluten-free: Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones to cater to dietary restrictions.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent—this should take about 5 minutes. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen! Then add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds before removing from heat. Sautéing brings out the sweetness of the onions and enhances the flavor profile of our patties.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic mixture with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands in there; it’s an enjoyable part of making these patties! This step is crucial because it ensures each patty is packed with flavor.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Now it’s time to form your mixture into patties! Shape them into approximately eight patties that are about ½ inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly while maintaining their juiciness inside.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

In that same skillet (don’t wash it yet!), heat up the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Carefully place your patties in the skillet and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. This step gives them a lovely crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, transfer them onto paper towels to drain any excess oil. Serve warm alongside your favorite garnishes like tzatziki sauce or fresh salad greens. Enjoy every bite of these delicious Mediterranean Chicken Patties!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Creating the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Patties is all about attention to detail and a few insider tricks. Here are some pro tips to ensure your patties turn out delicious every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried ones. Freshness brings that vibrant Mediterranean taste to life, making your patties more aromatic and enjoyable.

• Don’t overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just enough to incorporate everything. Overmixing can lead to tough patties, so be gentle to maintain a tender texture.

• Chill before cooking: If you have the time, refrigerate the formed patties for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better during cooking and enhances their flavor as they rest.

• Adjust spices to taste: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or substituting herbs like parsley for dill can customize the flavor profile to suit your personal preference.

• Cook in batches: If your skillet is crowded, it can lower the temperature and cause uneven cooking. Cooking in batches ensures each patty gets that perfect golden-brown crust!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are not just delicious but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving. Here are some delightful ideas for presentation that will impress your family and friends!

Garnishes

• Fresh lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving adds brightness and enhances the flavors of the herbs in the patties.
• Chopped fresh herbs: Sprinkling some extra dill or parsley on top adds an appealing color contrast and a burst of freshness.
• Sliced cucumbers: Crisp cucumber slices can add crunch and make for a refreshing complement, especially if you’re serving them in pita.

Side Dishes

• Quinoa Tabouli Salad: This refreshing salad made with bulgur, tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley, mint, and a lemon-olive oil dressing pairs beautifully with chicken patties for a healthy meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant roasted with olive oil brings a smoky flavor that complements the patties wonderfully.
• Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt-based dip filled with cucumber and garlic provides a cooling contrast that works perfectly alongside warm chicken patties.
• Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous tossed with olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese (or a vegan alternative) makes for a hearty side dish full of flavor.

Enjoy your culinary journey through the Mediterranean with these enticing chicken patties! Each bite promises warmth and zest that will surely leave everyone wanting more. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep! You can easily make them ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They will last for up to 3 days.
• For best results, let them cool completely before sealing.

Freezing

• Place uncooked or cooked patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• To reheat refrigerated patties, warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through (about 4-5 minutes per side).
• For frozen patties, cook directly from frozen on medium-low heat for about 8-10 minutes per side until fully cooked. Alternatively, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Mediterranean Chicken Patties:

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well with this recipe without compromising flavor.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

These patties pair wonderfully with fresh salads, pita bread, or even alongside dips like tzatziki or hummus for added flavor!

How do I know when my Mediterranean Chicken Patties are done cooking?

The patties should be golden brown on both sides and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.

Can I make Mediterranean Chicken Patties gluten-free?

Yes! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this dish suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making these Mediterranean Chicken Patties! They’re not only packed with flavor but also versatile enough to fit into your meal planning. Enjoy sharing these delightful bites with family and friends—I can’t wait for you to experience their deliciousness firsthand!