Name: Mediterranean Chicken Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 27 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 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

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If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal that the whole family will love, then you’ve found it! These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a wonderful way to bring the sunny flavors of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. They are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. I love how versatile they are—whether served as a main dish in pita bread, on top of a crisp salad, or even as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce, these patties always hit the spot!

What makes this recipe truly special is not just the delightful combination of fresh herbs and spices but also its ability to appeal to both kids and adults alike. You can whip them up in no time, making them a go-to choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy: With just 15 minutes of prep time, dinner can be on the table in no time!
Family-friendly: Kids adore these flavorful patties, making mealtime enjoyable for everyone.
Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep—cook them ahead of time and reheat throughout the week.
Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh veggies, these patties are good for you without sacrificing taste.
Versatile serving options: Enjoy them in various ways—inside pita pockets, over salads, or simply dipped in your favorite sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties come together with simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have at home. Let’s gather what you’ll need:

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 these Mediterranean Chicken Patties is how flexible they are! Feel free to get creative based on what you have at home or your personal preferences.

Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Add some heat: Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a little spice.
Change up the herbs: Fresh parsley or mint can add an exciting twist to the flavor profile.
Make it gluten-free: Simply opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs to enjoy this dish without worry.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by sautéing the onion in one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it becomes translucent (about 5 minutes). Then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. This step is crucial because sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of your patties.

Step 2: Prepare the Mixture

In a large bowl, mix together your sautéed onion and garlic with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper until everything is well combined. This is where all those delicious flavors come together!

Step 3: Form the Patties

Now it’s time to shape your mixture into approximately eight patties that are about half an inch thick. Don’t worry about making them perfect; just aim for consistency so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for about five to six minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. The sizzling sound means you’re on your way to something tasty!

Step 5: Serve

Once cooked, drain your patties on paper towels to remove excess oil. Serve them warm with garnishes as desired—these Mediterranean Chicken Patties are sure to be a hit! Enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Creating the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Patties is a breeze with a few insider tips that can elevate your dish.

Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill and other herbs enhance the flavor significantly compared to dried versions, bringing out the vibrant Mediterranean essence in every bite.
Don’t overmix: Gently combine the ingredients until just mixed. Overmixing can lead to tougher patties rather than tender bites.
Chill before cooking: Allowing the shaped patties to chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes helps them hold their shape better during cooking and enhances the flavors.
Adjust spice levels: Feel free to tweak the spices according to your preference. Adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some crushed red pepper flakes can give these patties an extra kick if you like heat!
Cook in batches: If your skillet is small, cook the patties in batches. This ensures they cook evenly and get that lovely golden crust without overcrowding the pan.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in various delightful ways that will impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

Fresh lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon adds brightness and complements the flavors beautifully.
Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also enhances freshness with its herbal notes.
Tzatziki sauce: A cool, creamy dip made from yogurt, cucumber, and garlic pairs perfectly with these patties for an authentic touch.

Side Dishes

Quinoa tabbouleh: This refreshing salad made with quinoa, parsley, tomatoes, and lemon dressing offers a light, nutritious addition that balances well with the rich flavors of the patties.
Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant bring a hearty element to your meal while adding vibrant colors and nutrients.
Greek salad: Crisp cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese tossed in olive oil create a classic side that complements Mediterranean dishes wonderfully.
Hummus and pita bread: Creamy hummus paired with warm pita bread makes for a satisfying side that’s perfect for scooping up those delectable chicken patties.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips at your disposal, you’re ready to impress everyone at the dinner table! Enjoy your culinary journey through the Mediterranean!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week. Here’s how to store and reheat them for maximum freshness.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties.
Layer parchment paper between patties before placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating

To reheat from thawed: Warm patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through (about 3-4 minutes per side).
To reheat from frozen: Cook in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions about Mediterranean Chicken Patties that might help you as you prepare this dish!

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield similar delicious results. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as it may vary slightly.

How can I add more flavor to my Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

Consider mixing in additional herbs like parsley or mint, or even spices such as coriander for a unique twist. You can also experiment with different dipping sauces!

Are Mediterranean Chicken Patties gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs, and you’ll have a delicious gluten-free option that everyone can enjoy.

What should I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

These patties pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or wrapped in pita bread with your favorite toppings like cucumber and tzatziki sauce.

How long do these patties last once cooked?

Once cooked, Mediterranean Chicken Patties can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making them ideal for quick meals throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making these Mediterranean Chicken Patties as much as I do! Their blend of fresh flavors and healthy ingredients makes them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re sharing them with family or savoring them solo, they’re sure to bring a smile to your face. Happy cooking!