Mediterranean Chicken Patties

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy meal that the whole family will love, these Mediterranean Chicken Patties are just the ticket! They’re packed with flavor from fresh herbs and spices, making them a delightful addition to any table. Whether it’s a busy weeknight, a casual gathering with friends, or simply meal prep for the week ahead, these patties are versatile and oh-so-satisfying. Trust me; once you try this recipe, you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation!

What makes these Mediterranean Chicken Patties even more special is how easy they are to whip up. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a tasty dish ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can easily fit this recipe into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the juicy texture and vibrant flavors.
• Meal prep friendly: These patties store well in the fridge or freezer, making them perfect for make-ahead meals.
• Versatile serving options: Enjoy them in pita bread, on a salad, or as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.
• Packed with nutrients: Made with lean ground chicken and fresh veggies, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties come together with simple and wholesome ingredients that you likely already have at home. Let’s gather what we 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

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken thighs for a different flavor profile.
• Add more greens: Toss in some chopped kale or Swiss chard for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like a kick, add some red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the mix!
• Make it gluten-free: Substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free options for a celiac-friendly meal.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). This step is crucial as sautéing the onions brings out their natural sweetness. Then stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Mix It All Together

In a large bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything until well combined. The Greek yogurt adds moisture while keeping the patties tender—it’s an essential ingredient!

Step 3: Shape Your Patties

Once everything is mixed together nicely, it’s time to shape your mixture into patties. Aim for about eight patties that are approximately ½ inch thick. This thickness ensures they cook evenly while remaining juicy inside.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Heat the remaining olive oil in your skillet over medium heat again. Carefully place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step creates that lovely crust while keeping all those delicious flavors locked inside.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

After cooking, drain the patties on paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve them warm with garnishes of your choice—perhaps some extra dill or lemon wedges! These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are sure to be a hit at your table!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties is a breeze, but a few pro tips can take your dish from good to great!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your onion, garlic, and spinach in advance saves time and allows the flavors to meld better when you mix everything together.

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill not only enhances flavor but also adds a vibrant color to your patties, making them visually appealing.

• Don’t Overmix: When combining the ingredients, mix just until everything is incorporated. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.

• Test Cook a Small Patty: Before cooking all the patties, fry a small one to check seasoning. This way, you can adjust salt or spices if needed.

• Let Them Rest: After shaping the patties, let them rest in the fridge for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways! Here are some creative ideas for serving this delicious dish.

Garnishes

• Tzatziki Sauce: A refreshing yogurt-based sauce with cucumber and garlic that complements the flavors of the patties beautifully.
• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some extra dill or parsley on top for a burst of freshness and color.
• Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before eating brightens up the dish and enhances its Mediterranean flair.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A colorful mix of tomatoes, cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese offers a crunchy contrast that pairs perfectly with the soft patties.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This herby salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice provides a nutritious and flavorful side.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies drizzled with olive oil and herbs makes for a hearty accompaniment that balances out the meal.
• Pita Bread or Flatbreads: Warm pita or flatbreads are perfect for wrapping around the patties with some garnishes for an easy-to-eat meal on-the-go.

With these serving suggestions and tips in mind, you’ll create an unforgettable dining experience that highlights the delightful flavors of Mediterranean cuisine! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep, making them a fantastic addition to your weekly cooking routine. You can easily prepare a batch in advance and enjoy them throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the cooked patties to cool completely.
• Place them in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Arrange the cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 2 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through (about 5 minutes).
• Alternatively, you can microwave them for about 1-2 minutes until heated, but this may make them less crispy.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Mediterranean Chicken Patties that might help you on your cooking journey!

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

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work well in this recipe. Just follow the same instructions as you would with ground chicken.

How do I make gluten-free Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This will ensure that your patties remain delicious without gluten.

Can I bake these Mediterranean Chicken Patties instead of frying?

Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place the patties on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are cooked through.

What should I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

These patties are versatile! Serve them with a side salad, in pita bread with fresh veggies, or alongside some tzatziki sauce for dipping.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Mediterranean Chicken Patties just as much as I do! With their bright flavors and wonderful texture, they’re sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Whether you’re serving them at family dinners or prepping meals for the week ahead, these patties bring joy and satisfaction to every bite. Happy cooking!