Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

If you’re hunting for a weeknight dinner that’s both exciting and good for you, these Mediterranean Chicken Patties are your answer. This is truly a flavorful and healthy recipe, packed with bright herbs, zesty lemon, and a touch of creamy feta, all bound together in juicy, golden patties that are endlessly versatile. Whether you’re piling them onto salads, tucking them into pita, or serving hot with a side of veggies, these patties celebrate Mediterranean sunshine in every bite while keeping your kitchen routine refreshingly easy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Don’t worry about a long grocery list—this flavorful and healthy recipe calls for simple, honest ingredients, each playing a crucial role in achieving that irresistible savory, herby, and zesty character. You’ll likely have most on hand already, and a few fresh herbs make all the difference here!

• Ground Chicken: Use a blend of lean and slightly fattier ground chicken for patties that are juicy, never dry.
• Red Onion: Finely chopped for a gentle crunch and a hint of sweetness that brightens the patties.
• Garlic: Two cloves, minced, lending robust, aromatic depth classic to Mediterranean dishes.
• Fresh Parsley: Adds color and a garden-fresh note that wakes up every bite.
• Fresh Mint: Just a bit offers cooling contrast and true Mediterranean flair.
• Dried Oregano: Earthy and herbal, a small spoonful brings that unmistakable regional flavor.
• Lemon Zest: The zest from one lemon infuses the patties with zingy aromatic brightness.
• Egg: Lightly beaten, helping to bind everything together for tender patties.
• Breadcrumbs: Choose panko or traditional; they provide structure while keeping patties moist.
• Feta Cheese (optional): Crumbled feta lends creamy pockets of tang and so much flavor.
• Salt and Pepper: Season generously to taste, bringing all the ingredients into balance.
• Olive Oil: For a golden sear and a touch of Mediterranean richness as you cook.

How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Mixture

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and add in the ground chicken, red onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, fresh mint, and dried oregano. Sprinkle in the lemon zest for aromatic lift, then add your lightly beaten egg, breadcrumbs for texture, and, if you like, the crumbled feta for a creamy, tangy surprise. Finish with salt and pepper. Don’t rush this step—use a fork or clean hands to gently combine everything until just mixed. Overmixing can make patties dense, so stop as soon as it all holds together and you see flecks of herbs in every scoop.

Step 2: Form the Patties

With your mixture ready, divide it into six to eight equal portions. Feel free to make them smaller for sliders or larger for main-dish patties. Wet your hands for easier handling, then gently shape each portion into a smooth patty about half an inch thick. Lay them out on a plate or parchment in a single layer—this makes them easy to transfer to your skillet and ensures they hold their shape.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

Heat a good drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet set over medium-high heat. Once it shimmers, add the patties—work in batches if needed so each one has plenty of space. Let them sizzle undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes per side, flipping once, until deeply golden and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). The aroma is your clue that something wonderful is about to hit the table. Transfer cooked patties to a clean plate and tent with foil while you finish the batch.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

Garnishes

Dress these Mediterranean Chicken Patties up with a shower of chopped fresh herbs, extra crumbled feta, or a squeeze of lemon to really highlight the dish’s sunny personality. For even more flavor, a drizzle of good olive oil or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top makes each patty feel special.

Side Dishes

This flavorful and healthy recipe pairs gorgeously with a crisp Greek salad, roasted seasonal vegetables, or a bowl of fluffy couscous. If you’re craving carbs, tuck the patties into warm pita alongside cucumber slices and tzatziki for an instant meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the patties slider-style on mini buns with a smear of roasted red pepper hummus, or slice them over vibrant mixed greens for a protein-packed Mediterranean bowl. Layer them with tomatoes and lettuce in a wrap, or crumble into grain bowls with olives and artichokes for a new spin on leftovers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Transfer any cooled leftover patties to an airtight container and tuck them into the fridge, where they’ll stay fresh and juicy for up to three days. Lining the bottom of the container with a paper towel helps wick away moisture and preserves their great texture.

Freezing

This flavorful and healthy recipe is perfect for meal prepping. Once cooked, let the patties cool completely, then layer them in a freezer-safe bag with parchment between each to prevent sticking. Pop them in the freezer for up to three months, and thank yourself later!

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm patties in a covered skillet over low heat until heated through, or microwave gently at half-power. For best results from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so they stay juicy inside and golden on the outside.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully and keeps this dish just as lean and flavorful. Just follow the same recipe and watch for doneness, as cooking times may vary slightly.

How can I make this a dairy-free, flavorful and healthy recipe?

Simply omit the feta cheese from the mix and the patties will still be loaded with fresh, vibrant Mediterranean flavors. Serve with a dairy-free yogurt sauce if you’d like that creamy element.

What’s the best way to chop herbs quickly?

Stack the leaves of parsley and mint, roll them together tightly, then slice thinly with a sharp knife for a speedy, uniform chop that releases maximum aroma into your mixture.

Can I bake these patties instead of pan-frying?

Yes, you sure can! Arrange patties on a lined baking sheet, brush lightly with olive oil, and bake at 400°F for about 15–18 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.

Do these patties work as meal prep for lunches?

Absolutely, and that’s one of the best things about a flavorful and healthy recipe like this one! They hold up beautifully in the fridge and taste fantastic cold or reheated, making them perfect for salads, wraps, or easy lunchboxes.

Final Thoughts

There’s a little magic in every bite of these Mediterranean Chicken Patties—a flavorful and healthy recipe that’s as worthy of your weeknight repertoire as it is of special gatherings. I can’t wait for you to enjoy this sunny, satisfying twist on classic comfort food and to see all the delicious ways you’ll make it your own. Give it a try and savor the freshness!

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