Sometimes the best meals are the ones that are simple to make but bursting with fresh, vibrant flavors. These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are exactly that. Taking inspiration from the sunny shores of the Mediterranean, these patties are tender, juicy, and packed with classic ingredients like fresh herbs, and savory spices. They are the perfect solution for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing addition to any barbecue.
Why This Recipe is a Favorite
This recipe is a favorite because it delivers on so many fronts. The combination of moist ground chicken with finely chopped red onion and fresh herbs makes for an incredibly flavorful patty that’s anything but boring. They cook up quickly, whether on a skillet, grill, or in an air fryer, making them a fantastic option for a busy evening. Plus, they are incredibly versatile and can be served in a bun, on a salad, or alongside your favorite sides. It’s a meal that feels both wholesome and deeply satisfying.
Ingredients
Here is a complete list of ingredients for these delicious Mediterranean Chicken Patties, expanding on your provided partial list:
- 450g ground chicken (a mix of lean and fatty parts is recommended for moisture)
- 1 small red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 large egg
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon dried oregano
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, for cooking
- For Serving (Optional):
- Plain Greek yogurt or tzatziki sauce
- Pita bread or buns
- Sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion
- Feta cheese, crumbled
Swaps and Notes
- Ground Chicken: A mix of lean and fatty ground chicken will give you the juiciest patties. You can also use ground turkey for a similar result.
- Onion: Finely dicing the red onion is key so that it doesn’t overpower the other flavors and cooks evenly within the patty.
- Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill are essential for the Mediterranean flavor profile. If you don’t have fresh, you can use dried, but the fresh herbs will provide a much more vibrant taste.
- Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs act as a binder and help keep the patties from falling apart. Panko breadcrumbs will give you a slightly lighter texture. You can also use a gluten-free breadcrumb alternative if needed.
- Cheese: Adding a handful of crumbled feta cheese to the patty mixture is a fantastic way to add a salty, briny flavor.
- Serving: These patties are incredibly versatile. They can be served as a burger, in a pita, or even crumbled on top of a salad.
Steps for the Recipe
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley, chopped fresh dill, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, black pepper, and dried oregano.
- Mix Gently: Using your hands, mix the ingredients until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough patties.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 or 6 equal portions and form them into patties, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Press a small indentation into the center of each patty with your thumb to help it cook evenly and prevent it from puffing up.
- Cook the Patties: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully place the patties in the hot skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the patties are golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C). The time will vary based on the thickness of your patties.
- Rest and Serve: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overmix: Overmixing the ground meat mixture can make the patties tough and dense. Mix just until the ingredients are incorporated.
- Mind the Indentation: The small thumbprint in the center helps the patties maintain their shape and ensures they cook evenly.
- Medium-High Heat: Cooking the patties over medium-high heat gives them a beautiful, golden-brown crust without drying out the inside.
- Let Them Rest: As with any cooked meat, letting the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a tender and juicy result.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are incredibly versatile. Serve them on toasted pita bread with a smear of [tzatziki sauce], sliced cucumber, and tomato for a delicious gyro-like experience. They are also fantastic on a salad with a lemon-herb vinaigrette or as a main dish alongside roasted potatoes and a side of steamed green beans.
For other crowd-pleasing chicken dishes, consider:
- Easy Cheesy Chicken Sliders with Marinara Garlic Butter
- A Light, Tangy Chicken Salad I Actually Crave (and There’s No Mayo in Sight)
Storage and Leftover Tips
Leftover Mediterranean Chicken Patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat, in the microwave, or even in a toaster oven or air fryer to regain some of that crispy exterior. They are also great crumbled and served cold over a salad.
More Recipes You Will Love
If you appreciate easy, flavorful, and satisfying meals, you’ll find more to love on ChefManiac.com:
- This Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is My Favorite One-Pan Dinner That’s Always a Hit
- These Chicken Enchiladas are My Go-To for Cozy Crowd-Pleasing Dinners
- This Cajun Chicken Sausage Gumbo is My Favorite Bowl of Southern Comfort
Final Thoughts
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a fantastic way to bring a taste of fresh, vibrant flavor to your dinner table. They’re quick, healthy, and incredibly delicious, proving that simple cooking can still be a truly special experience.
What are your favorite ways to use ground chicken? Share your ideas and feedback in the comments below! And don’t forget to follow ChefManiac.com for more delicious and easy-to-make recipes!
Mediterranean Chicken Patties: Your New Go-To for Flavorful Dinner
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 large egg
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, parsley, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and egg.
- Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form the mixture into patties, about 3 inches in diameter.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with your choice of dipping sauce or in a pita with fresh vegetables.
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