Mediterranean Chicken Patties Delight

These Mediterranean chicken patties bring the bright, zesty flavors of Mediterranean cuisine to your dinner table in just 30 minutes. The combination of ground chicken, fresh herbs, and Greek yogurt creates juicy patties that are both nutritious and satisfying without requiring complicated techniques or hard-to-find ingredients.

I discovered this recipe during a busy week when I needed something healthy but quick to feed my family. Now these patties have become our go-to alternative to burgers when we want something lighter but equally satisfying.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: Provides a lean protein base while still remaining juicy
• Baby spinach: Adds nutrients and beautiful green flecks throughout
• Greek yogurt: Keeps the patties moist without adding excess fat
• Fresh dill: Brings bright herbaceous flavor that complements the Mediterranean profile
• Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat
• Dried oregano: For classic Mediterranean flavor, look for Greek oregano if possible
• Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and beautiful color
• Ground cumin: Provides earthy depth
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together; use panko for extra crispiness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté Aromatics:

Cook onions and garlic in olive oil over medium-high heat until they begin to soften and turn slightly golden around the edges; about 2 to 3 minutes. The aromatics create the flavor foundation, so take your time here to develop their sweetness.

Add Spinach:

Add chopped spinach to the hot pan and cook just until wilted; about 1 minute. The spinach will release moisture, which adds juiciness to your patties. Allow this mixture to cool for about 5 minutes before proceeding.

Mix Patty Ingredients:

Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and all seasonings in a mixing bowl. Add the cooled onion-spinach mixture and gently fold everything together until just combined. Overmixing can make the patties tough, so use a light hand.

Form Patties:

Shape the mixture into 12 equal patties; about half an inch thick. If the mixture feels too wet, chill it for 10 minutes first. For even cooking, make sure all patties are uniform in thickness.

Chill:

Refrigerate the formed patties for at least 30 minutes. This resting time allows the flavors to meld and helps the patties hold their shape during cooking. You can prepare them up to a day ahead at this point.

Cook Patties:

Heat remaining olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties for 3 to 5 minutes per side until they develop a beautiful golden crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan.

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The secret to these patties is the combination of Greek yogurt and spinach. I discovered that adding yogurt creates an incredible tenderness that keeps the chicken moist even if you accidentally cook them a minute too long. My mother-in-law, who claims to dislike ground chicken, devoured three of these at our last family dinner.

Make-Ahead Options

These Mediterranean chicken patties are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the mixture and form the patties up to 24 hours before cooking, storing them covered in the refrigerator. This makes them perfect for busy weeknights when you want something homemade but don't have time to start from scratch.

For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to freezer bags. They'll keep for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking according to the regular instructions.

Serving Suggestions

These versatile patties can be served in multiple ways. Try them with tzatziki sauce and a Greek salad for a traditional Mediterranean meal. They also work wonderfully in pita pockets with cucumber, tomato, and red onion. For a low-carb option, serve them over a bed of leafy greens with lemon vinaigrette.

For family-style serving, consider making smaller patties as appetizers or creating a build-your-own Mediterranean bowl bar with various toppings like hummus, roasted vegetables, feta cheese, and olives.

Variation Ideas

The basic recipe is incredibly adaptable. Try adding crumbled feta cheese to the mixture for tangy richness. Chopped roasted red peppers add sweetness and color. For a spicier version, incorporate a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.

You can also substitute ground turkey for the chicken or try a mixture of beef and lamb for a more traditional Mediterranean flavor profile. Just adjust cooking times accordingly, as different meats require different cooking times.

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Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I store leftover chicken patties?

Store the cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in a skillet, air fryer, or microwave for best results.

→ Can I freeze these chicken patties?

Yes, freeze uncooked patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking.

→ What can I serve with these chicken patties?

Pair the patties with sides like tzatziki sauce, rice pilaf, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

→ Can I make these patties gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs to make the patties gluten-free.

→ How do I ensure the patties stay firm during cooking?

Refrigerate the shaped patties for at least 30 minutes before cooking. This step helps them hold their shape during the cooking process.

→ What’s the best way to cook these patties in an air fryer?

Place the patties in a preheated air fryer at 375°F. Cook for 13–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden brown and fully cooked.