Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

Sink your teeth into the bold, fresh flavors of the Mediterranean Chicken Patties—a dish bursting with juicy ground chicken, fragrant herbs, and a playful balance of tangy Greek yogurt and zesty lemon. Every bite delivers a satisfying crunch and a burst of color, making this recipe a go-to for family dinners, lunch prep, or festive gatherings. Versatile, quick to whip up, and loved by both adults and kids, Mediterranean Chicken Patties are an irresistible way to bring a bit of Mediterranean sunshine to your table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the beauties of Mediterranean Chicken Patties is how straightforward the ingredients are—each one packs a punch and plays a vital role. Think fresh herbs and bright lemon for zing, Greek yogurt for creaminess, and plenty of spices for depth of flavor. Here’s what you’ll want to grab for irresistibly tasty patties:

• Olive Oil: Adds richness and that signature Mediterranean flavor to both the sauté and frying step.
• Onion: Provides a subtle sweetness and juicy texture as the aromatic base.
• Garlic: A little garlic goes a long way in lifting the overall savoriness of your patties.
• Baby Spinach: Chopped for a pop of color and extra nutrients—plus, it keeps the patties moist.
• Ground Chicken: The key protein; lean, mild, and perfect for soaking up all those delicious seasonings.
• Breadcrumbs: Essential for binding everything together and creating the perfect patty consistency.
• Greek Yogurt: Brings gentle tang and an ultra-juicy texture into every bite.
• Fresh Dill: Finely chopped for an unmistakable herbaceous pop—don’t skip it!
• Lemon Juice: Balances the flavors with brightness and a slight citrusy zing.
• Dried Oregano: A classic Mediterranean herb that infuses the patties with earthy, aromatic notes.
• Paprika: Adds warmth and hints of smokiness to round out the palate.
• Ground Cumin: Quietly deepens the flavor profile with a savory, slightly nutty undertone.
• Salt: Ties all the flavors together, as every good Mediterranean dish requires.
• Ground Black Pepper: Lends a gentle kick, amplifying all the other spices.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by warming up your kitchen with cozy, savory aromas—heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, which takes about 5 minutes. Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant, around 30 seconds, then pull the pan off the heat. This short step builds a flavorful foundation for your Mediterranean Chicken Patties.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

Grab a large mixing bowl—it’s time for everything to come together! Combine the sautéed onion and garlic with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly with clean hands or a sturdy spoon so you end up with an even, cohesive mixture where every patty gets its fair share of herbs and spices.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

With your seasoned chicken mixture ready, shape it into approximately eight patties, each about half an inch thick. Keep your hands slightly damp to prevent sticking while you form them. This not only helps create uniform patties but also ensures even cooking later on.

Step 4: Pan-Fry to Perfection

Heat the remaining olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Carefully place the patties in a single layer—don’t overcrowd the pan. Cook each one for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, letting them develop a golden, slightly crispy exterior while staying juicy within. Flip only once to lock in flavor and prevent breakage.

Step 5: Drain and Serve

Once the Mediterranean Chicken Patties are golden and cooked through, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to drain off any excess oil. Serve them warm straight from the pan, and get ready to delight your tastebuds!

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Garnishes

Brighten up your dish with a handful of fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint—these bring a pleasant aroma and a splash of color. A dollop of creamy Greek yogurt, a squeeze of fresh lemon, or a sprinkle of sumac over the patties elevates them beautifully and makes every bite a mini celebration.

Side Dishes

Mediterranean Chicken Patties partner beautifully with a crisp Greek salad full of cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta. Or try them with a simple tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or even a platter of warm pita and hummus. The options are so varied, these patties will quickly become your weeknight staple.

Creative Ways to Present

Think outside the bun! Tuck your patties into pita pockets topped with greens and tzatziki, serve them over fluffy couscous, or chop and fold them into grain bowls. They also shine as bite-sized sliders or in lettuce wraps—perfect for parties or meal prepping lunches for the week.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled, leftovers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Layer parchment between patties if you’re stacking them, so they don’t stick together and lose their crust.

Freezing

Mediterranean Chicken Patties freeze like a dream! Place cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until firm, then transfer to ziptop bags or airtight containers. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to 3 months, ready to save you on a busy night.

Reheating

For that still-crisp exterior, reheat patties in a skillet over medium heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through—just a few minutes per side will do. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the texture a bit rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. The results are equally moist and flavorful—just keep an eye on the patties to avoid overcooking, as turkey can dry out a bit faster than chicken.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh dill?

No fresh dill? Simply use half the amount of dried dill, or try substituting fresh parsley, mint, or basil for a different twist. The flavor will shift, but your Mediterranean Chicken Patties will still be deliciously herby.

How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Breadcrumbs and Greek yogurt act as great binders, but make sure the mixture isn’t too wet or too dry—add a touch more breadcrumbs if needed. Also, shape and compact the patties gently but firmly before frying, and flip them only once while cooking.

Can I bake these instead of frying?

Yes, for a lighter version, bake the patties on a parchment-lined sheet at 400°F for about 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be quite as crisp as the skillet version, but are less hands-on and just as satisfying.

Are Mediterranean Chicken Patties gluten-free?

Traditional breadcrumbs contain gluten, but you can easily swap in your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal to make the patties entirely gluten-free. Everything else in the recipe is naturally free from gluten!

Final Thoughts

There’s something magical about sharing Mediterranean Chicken Patties with friends and family—the fragrance, the flavors, the ease! Whether you’re welcoming summer or just looking for a nourishing, colorful meal to brighten your week, these patties definitely belong in your regular rotation. I can’t wait for you to give them a try!

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