Mediterranean Chicken Patties

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are not only bursting with flavor but also easy to whip up any day of the week. This recipe has become a favorite in my household, and I’m excited to share it with you. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a casual family gathering, these patties are perfect for serving alongside your favorite sides or in warm pita bread.

What makes these Mediterranean Chicken Patties special is their versatility. You can enjoy them as a main dish, appetizer, or even in meal prep for those hectic days. They are sure to delight both kids and adults alike!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have a wholesome meal on the table in no time.
• Family-friendly appeal: These patties are packed with flavor and nutrition, making them a hit with everyone.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prepping; simply store extras in the fridge or freezer.
• Deliciously versatile: Great in pita pockets, on salads, or served as an appetizer with your favorite dipping sauce.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create these delightful Mediterranean Chicken Patties. With fresh herbs and spices, each bite will be filled with vibrant flavors!

• 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 experiment with different flavors and ingredients based on what you have on hand.

• Swap the chicken: Try using ground turkey or lean beef for a different protein option.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate grated zucchini or finely chopped bell peppers into the mixture for added nutrition.
• Change up the herbs: Substitute dill with parsley or mint for a fresh twist on flavor.
• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to enjoy this dish without worry.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion until it becomes translucent—about five minutes should do it! This step is crucial because cooking onions brings out their natural sweetness. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds before removing everything from heat. Set aside to cool slightly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a large bowl, mix together the sautéed onion and garlic with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined; this ensures that every bite of your Mediterranean Chicken Patties is full of flavor!

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Now it’s time to shape your mixture into patties! Use your hands to form approximately eight patties that are about half an inch thick. Press gently so they hold together well during cooking.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Heat the remaining olive oil in your skillet over medium heat. Place the patties into the skillet and cook for about five to six minutes on each side until they turn golden brown and are cooked through. This step gives them that lovely crispy exterior while keeping them juicy inside!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!

Once cooked, drain your Mediterranean Chicken Patties on paper towels to remove any excess oil. Serve them warm with your choice of garnishes like fresh herbs or yogurt-based sauces. Enjoy these delightful bites straight from the pan or let them cool for meal prep—either way, they’re sure to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Making these Mediterranean Chicken Patties is a breeze, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh dill and other herbs add vibrant flavor that dried herbs can’t replicate. They make your patties taste more authentic and refreshing.

• Don’t overmix the ingredients: Gently combine the mixture until just blended. Overmixing can lead to tough patties instead of tender, juicy bites.

• Chill before cooking: Allow the formed patties to chill in the refrigerator for 20-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better when frying.

• Test for seasoning: Before cooking all the patties, fry a small sample patty. This allows you to adjust seasoning if necessary for optimum flavor.

• Cook in batches: If you’re making a large number of patties, cook them in small batches to ensure even cooking and browning. This prevents overcrowding in the pan which can lead to steaming rather than frying.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are not only delightful on their own but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving! Whether you’re aiming for casual bites or elegant plating, there are numerous ways to enjoy them.

Garnishes

To enhance the flavors and presentation of your dish, consider these simple garnishes:

• Chopped parsley or dill: A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds color and brightness.
• Sliced lemon wedges: A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a zesty kick.

Side Dishes

Pair your Mediterranean Chicken Patties with these delicious side dishes for a complete meal:

• Tzatziki sauce: A creamy cucumber yogurt dip that complements the spices in the patties and adds a refreshing element.

• Greek salad: A mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil. Its crunch and acidity balance nicely with the rich flavors of the chicken patties.

• Quinoa tabbouleh: A light salad made with quinoa, parsley, mint, tomatoes, and lemon juice. It’s hearty yet refreshing and serves as a great base or side.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender provide a colorful plate that pairs beautifully.

Enjoy these Mediterranean Chicken Patties as part of a delightful meal that brings everyone together at the table!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep, making them a convenient choice for busy weeknights or planned gatherings. You can easily store leftovers or prepare them in advance to save time!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the patties to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can be stored for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• To freeze, place cooked and cooled patties in a single layer on a baking sheet.
• Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be kept in the freezer for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat frozen patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
• If reheating refrigerated patties, you can use a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about making Mediterranean Chicken Patties.

Can I use something other than chicken in these Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Just ensure that the cooking times are adjusted accordingly.

How do I make Mediterranean Chicken Patties gluten-free?

To make these delicious Mediterranean Chicken Patties gluten-free, simply replace standard breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs. This will maintain the flavor and texture while accommodating dietary needs.

What can I serve with Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

These patties pair wonderfully with a variety of sides such as fresh salads, roasted vegetables, or tzatziki sauce for dipping. Pita bread is also a great option for stuffing!

How long does it take to cook Mediterranean Chicken Patties?

The total time to prepare and cook these Mediterranean Chicken Patties is about 35 minutes—15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Mediterranean Chicken Patties as much as I do! Their vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients make them a delightful addition to any meal. Whether you’re whipping them up for dinner or prepping them for later, I’m sure they’ll become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!