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This Mediterranean chicken patty recipe transforms ordinary ground chicken into a flavor-packed meal that feels like a vacation to the Greek isles. The combination of herbs, spices, and feta creates a juicy patty that's both healthy and satisfying—perfect for breaking out of your dinner routine.
I first made these patties when trying to recreate a dish from a small taverna in Santorini. My family was skeptical of chicken patties but now requests them weekly. The combination of feta and herbs won everyone over instantly.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: Provides a lean protein base that absorbs flavors beautifully
- Breadcrumbs: Help bind the patties together while keeping them tender
- Feta cheese: Adds tangy saltiness and creamy pockets throughout each bite
- Fresh parsley: Brightens the entire dish with its vibrant color and flavor
- Minced garlic: Infuses each patty with aromatic depth
- Dried oregano: Brings authentic Mediterranean flavor
- Ground cumin: Adds warmth and subtle earthiness
- Paprika: Contributes a gentle smoky note and beautiful color
- Egg: Works as the perfect binder to hold everything together
- Olive oil: Ensures a perfectly golden crust when cooking
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and cuts through the richness
- Tzatziki sauce: Complements the patties with cooling creaminess
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the mixture:
- Combine ground chicken with breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, cumin, paprika, egg, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mix gently but thoroughly using your hands until everything is well incorporated. Avoid overmixing as this can make the patties tough.
- Form the patties:
- Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into patties about 3 inches in diameter and half an inch thick. Press gently in the center of each patty to create a slight indentation—this prevents them from puffing up too much when cooking.
- Cook to perfection:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add patties carefully, leaving space between each one. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the bottom develops a deep golden crust before flipping. Cook another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Rest and serve:
- Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate and let rest for 2-3 minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout the meat. Drizzle with fresh lemon juice and serve with tzatziki sauce alongside.
The feta cheese is truly the secret ingredient here. I remember serving these at a neighborhood potluck where even the pickiest children came back for seconds. One neighbor insisted I must have used a special spice blend, but it was simply the magic of good feta melting into the chicken.
Make-Ahead Options
These chicken patties are ideal for meal prep. You can mix the ingredients and form the patties up to 24 hours ahead, storing them covered in the refrigerator. Place parchment paper between each raw patty to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can fully cook the patties, cool them completely, and refrigerate for up to three days. They reheat beautifully in a skillet with a splash of water to restore moisture.
Creative Serving Ideas
While delicious on their own with tzatziki, these patties are incredibly versatile. Try stuffing them into warm pita bread with sliced cucumber, tomatoes, and red onion for a handheld meal. For a low-carb option, serve them over a Greek salad with extra feta and olives. They also work wonderfully sliced and added to grain bowls with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and hummus. For an impressive appetizer, make mini versions and serve with toothpicks and a tzatziki dipping sauce.
Perfect Pairings
The bright, herbal flavors in these patties pair wonderfully with other Mediterranean sides. Consider serving alongside lemon-roasted potatoes, a simple cucumber and tomato salad, or garlicky sautéed greens. For beverages, a crisp white wine like Assyrtiko or a light beer complements without overwhelming. If serving for lunch, freshly squeezed lemonade with mint makes a refreshing non-alcoholic option that echoes the citrus notes in the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the patties from falling apart?
Ensure the mixture is firm by adequately mixing the ingredients, and use an egg and breadcrumbs as binders. Avoid overworking the mixture to maintain texture.
- → Can I bake the chicken patties instead of frying?
Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes on a greased baking sheet, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and cooked through.
- → What can I serve with the chicken patties?
Serve them with a Greek salad, in pita bread for wraps, or alongside roasted vegetables. A side of tzatziki sauce adds a creamy, tangy touch.
- → Can I freeze these patties?
Yes, freeze cooked patties in a single layer until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Reheat straight from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes or in a skillet.
- → How can I make the patties spicier?
To add heat, include a pinch of chili powder or cayenne pepper in the mixture, or serve with a spicy dipping sauce.
- → Are these patties gluten-free?
To make them gluten-free, substitute traditional breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.