Mediterranean Chicken Patties

If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor and easy to whip up, you’re in for a treat! These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are not only delicious but also a wonderful way to bring a taste of the Mediterranean right to your kitchen. This recipe has become a family favorite because it combines fresh ingredients and spices that create mouthwatering patties everyone loves.

Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner, a casual family gathering, or meal prep for the week ahead, these patties fit the bill perfectly. They’re versatile enough to serve in various ways—try them in pita bread, over a fresh salad, or as tasty appetizers paired with your favorite dipping sauces. Trust me; these Mediterranean Chicken Patties will quickly become a go-to recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have these delicious patties on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids love them too! The flavors are mild yet delightful, making them perfect for even the pickiest eaters.
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh vegetables, these patties make for a nutritious meal option.
• Meal prep friendly: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week—perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Endless serving possibilities: Serve them in so many ways—on salads, in sandwiches, or as bite-sized snacks!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this recipe. You probably have most of these items already in your pantry or fridge!

• 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 this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate grated zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers into the mix for extra nutrition and color.
• Change up the herbs: Experiment with other fresh herbs like parsley or mint to add your own twist!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs to enjoy this dish without gluten.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by sautéing your diced onion in one tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat until it becomes translucent—this should take about five minutes. Adding garlic at the last minute ensures you capture its aromatic goodness without burning it. This step builds a flavorful base that enhances the entire dish!

Step 2: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine your sautéed onion and garlic with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mixing everything together well allows the flavors to meld beautifully. It’s important to get your hands in there (clean hands!) to ensure everything is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Shape Your Patties

Now comes the fun part! Shape the mixture into approximately eight patties that are about half an inch thick. Making them uniform ensures they cook evenly. Plus, they make such an inviting presentation when served!

Step 4: Cook Until Golden Brown

Heat the remaining olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet and cook for about five to six minutes on each side until they’re golden brown and cooked through. The sizzling sound alone will have everyone gathering around!

Step 5: Serve Warm

Once cooked, drain any excess oil on paper towels before serving warm. These patties are delightful as-is but feel free to add garnishes or serve them alongside your favorite sauces for dipping.

Enjoy creating these Mediterranean Chicken Patties—they’re sure to bring smiles around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Creating the perfect Mediterranean Chicken Patties can be a breeze with a few handy tips. Here are some suggestions to enhance your cooking experience and achieve delicious results!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or mint elevate the flavor profile of your patties. The freshness adds brightness and complexity, making each bite more aromatic and delightful.

• Chill the mixture: After mixing your ingredients, let the patty mixture chill in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes. This helps the patties hold their shape better when cooking and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

• Cook on medium heat: When frying your patties, keep your skillet at medium heat to ensure even cooking. This prevents the outside from burning while allowing the inside to cook through thoroughly.

• Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees they are safe to eat and perfectly cooked without being dry.

• Customize to taste: Feel free to experiment with spices or additional ingredients. Adding chili flakes for heat or chopped olives for brininess can create a unique twist that suits your palate.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are versatile and can be served in various delightful ways. Whether as part of a meal or a stand-alone appetizer, you’ll find plenty of options to impress your family and friends.

Garnishes

• Tzatziki sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic that complements the flavors of the patties beautifully.
• Sliced tomatoes: Juicy slices add freshness and color, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before eating brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty finish.

Side Dishes

• Greek salad: A vibrant mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil—this classic side is light yet satisfying.
• Quinoa tabbouleh: Made with fresh herbs, tomatoes, and lemon juice, this nutritious grain salad is full of flavor that pairs wonderfully with chicken patties.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant add warmth and depth to your meal while being healthy.
• Pita bread: Soft, warm pita bread serves as an excellent vessel for your patties or as a tasty accompaniment for dipping sauces.

Enjoy serving these Mediterranean Chicken Patties in different ways; they’re sure to become a hit at your table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade flavors throughout the week with minimal effort. You can easily store them in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the patties to cool completely.
• Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Place parchment paper between layers if stacking to prevent sticking.

Freezing

• Place cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours).
• Transfer frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper.
• They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat thawed patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5 minutes on each side).
• Alternatively, you can bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Mediterranean Chicken Patties that might help you out!

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

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will still deliver tasty results. Just ensure that you adjust the cooking time as needed based on the meat’s thickness.

How can I make these Mediterranean Chicken Patties gluten-free?

To make gluten-free Mediterranean Chicken Patties, simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This will keep your patties flavorful while accommodating gluten-free diets.

What dips pair well with Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

These patties pair wonderfully with tzatziki sauce, hummus, or a simple yogurt-based dip. You can also serve them with fresh vegetables for a crunchy contrast.

Can I add more spices to my Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding spices like coriander or red pepper flakes for extra flavor. Just remember to taste as you go!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these delightful Mediterranean Chicken Patties as much as I do! Their vibrant flavors and versatile serving options make them a fantastic choice for any meal. Whether you’re preparing them for family dinners or casual get-togethers, I’m sure they’ll become a beloved addition to your recipe collection. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!

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