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Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

If you’re craving something flavorful but light, you’ve got to try my Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe. These patties are juicy, packed with fresh herbs, and have just the right amount of zing from lemon and oregano. I promise, once you make them, they’ll become one of your go-to dinners for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. Plus, they’re simple enough for anyone to master — so stick around and I’ll walk you through every step.

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Why This Recipe Works

  • Balanced Flavors: The fresh dill and lemon juice brighten up the chicken for a delightful Mediterranean touch.
  • Perfect Texture: Breadcrumbs and Greek yogurt keep the patties moist without being heavy.
  • Simple Prep: Minimal steps and common ingredients make this recipe beginner-friendly but impressive.
  • Versatility: Enjoy them as a main dish, in buns, or even as a protein-packed salad topper.

Ingredients & Why They Work

The ingredients in this Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe play off each other perfectly. Each one brings something special—whether it’s moisture, flavor, or binding power. When you shop, fresh herbs and good-quality ground chicken will elevate your patties to a whole new level.

Mediterranean Chicken Patties, Mediterranean Chicken Patties recipe, healthy chicken patties, flavorful chicken patties, easy dinner ideas - Flat lay of a medium diced onion, a small pile of minced garlic cloves, a handful of bright baby spinach leaves, a mound of raw ground chicken, a small white ceramic bowl with golden olive oil, a small white ceramic bowl of fine light breadcrumbs, a small white ceramic bowl of thick creamy Greek yogurt, fresh sprigs of finely chopped dill, half a fresh lemon cut to show juicy pulp, a small white ceramic bowl with dried oregano, a small white ceramic bowl with vibrant paprika powder, a small white ceramic bowl with ground cumin powder, a small white ceramic bowl of coarse salt, a small white ceramic bowl with ground black peppercorns, whole uncracked brown eggs placed in a line next to the ingredients, all arranged symmetrically with perfect proportions on a clean white marble surface, soft natural light, photo taken with an iPhone, professional food photography style, fresh ingredients, white ceramic bowls, no bottles, no duplicates, no utensils, no packaging --ar 2:3 --v 7 --p m7354615311229779997
  • Olive oil: Brings that classic Mediterranean richness and helps sauté the veggies to a perfect golden.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and depth when caramelized just right.
  • Garlic: Garlic infuses the patties with aromatic, savory notes you’ll love.
  • Baby spinach: Adds moisture and a mild earthy flavor, plus a pop of green goodness.
  • Ground chicken: Lean and tender, it’s the perfect base for these patties.
  • Breadcrumbs: The secret for binding without making them dense.
  • Greek yogurt: Keeps the mixture juicy and adds a subtle tang.
  • Fresh dill: This herb is absolutely key for that fresh Mediterranean vibe.
  • Lemon juice: Brightens and balances the flavors with citrus zing.
  • Dried oregano, paprika, cumin: Together these spices give that warm, slightly smoky Mediterranean kick.
  • Salt and black pepper: To taste, because seasoning is everything here!
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Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

Make It Your Way

I love playing around with this Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe depending on what I have on hand. Feel free to make it your own by swapping herbs or adding your favorite flavors—that’s part of the fun!

  • Variation: Sometimes I throw in chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy twist that my family adores.
  • Low-Carb Option: Skip the breadcrumbs and increase the Greek yogurt slightly; just expect a softer texture.
  • Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa if you want more heat.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics to Build Flavor

Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until it’s nice and hot. Toss in the diced onions and minced garlic, stirring often so they brown evenly without burning. This takes about 2-3 minutes. Once fragrant and golden, add the chopped baby spinach and cook until just wilted—about 1 minute is perfect. Then transfer everything to a plate to cool for 5 minutes. This step develops that rich, savory base that makes these patties pop.

Step 2: Mix the Patties Ingredients Gently

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cooled onion & spinach, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, and all the spices. I like to start by stirring with a spatula and then finish by gently pressing the mixture together with my hands. It helps everything bind better without overworking the meat—keeping the patties tender when cooked. After mixing, shape the meat into a firm ball, cover it, and pop it into the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This rest time is crucial to help the flavors meld and the patties hold their shape.

Step 3: Form and Cook Your Patties to Perfection

Divide the chilled mixture into roughly ½ cup portions and shape them into patties about ¾-inch thick. You should get about a dozen patties. Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet over medium-high heat until sizzling. Cook the patties in batches (around 6 at a time) so they don’t crowd the pan—this helps them get that lovely golden crust. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side, flipping carefully. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness — 165°F is the safe temp for ground chicken. When they’re done, you’ll notice how juicy and flavorful they are inside, with a perfect sear outside.

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Tips from My Kitchen

  • Don’t Skip the Cooling: Letting the sautéed veggies cool prevents the yogurt from curdling when mixed.
  • Firm Patting: Forming a tight meatball before chilling helps the patties hold together perfectly when cooking.
  • Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely without drying out the patties.
  • Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Crowding causes steaming, which means no nice crust on your patties.

How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Patties, Mediterranean Chicken Patties recipe, healthy chicken patties, flavorful chicken patties, easy dinner ideas - A round white plate on a white marbled surface holds seven golden-brown patties with visible green herb bits inside, arranged in a slightly overlapping circle. At the top left of the plate, a small white bowl filled with a creamy white sauce mixed with green herbs sits with a spoon inside. A lemon wedge is placed at the top right edge of the plate, adding a touch of bright yellow. Fresh green herb leaves are scattered underneath some patties for decoration. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7

Garnishes

I love topping these patties with a dollop of tzatziki or a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese. Fresh lemon wedges on the side also add an inviting brightness. Sometimes, a simple handful of chopped fresh parsley or extra dill brings that awesome pop of color and flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve these patties with a light couscous or rice pilaf and some roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives is my go-to for a refreshing side. For something quicker, warm pita bread and hummus can round out the meal beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Whenever friends come over, I like to serve these patties on mini slider buns with roasted red pepper aioli and a few fresh greens. They make perfect finger food for parties! Another favorite is layering them over a bed of creamy mashed potatoes topped with a spoonful of tzatziki for a cozy dinner vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooking, I let the patties cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the fridge. They last great for 3-4 days. I always find that reheating gently in a skillet helps them keep their crispy edges instead of getting soggy like in a microwave.

Freezing

If you want to prep ahead, I recommend shaping the patties and freezing them raw. Wrap each patty separately in plastic wrap to avoid freezer burn, then store all wrapped patties in a freezer bag. They keep well for up to two months — perfect for those ‘I didn’t plan dinner’ moments.

Reheating

I usually reheat leftover patties in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of olive oil. This method helps restore the lovely golden crust while warming the inside evenly. If you’re in a rush, the air fryer also works wonders for reheating leftovers — just 3-4 minutes at 350°F and they’re good as new.

FAQs

  1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

    Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and offers a similar lean protein profile. Just keep an eye on cooking time since turkey can dry out faster; keeping some Greek yogurt in the mixture helps retain moisture.

  2. How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

    Make sure to mix the ingredients gently without overworking and chill the mixture for at least 30 minutes before shaping. Also, forming the mix into a tight ball before chilling helps it bind better during cooking.

  3. Can I bake these Mediterranean chicken patties instead of frying?

    Yes, baking is a great option for a lighter version. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t get as crispy as in a skillet but will still be tasty.

  4. What’s the best way to serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties for a party?

    Serve mini-sized patties on slider buns with tzatziki, cucumber slices, and fresh herbs for a tasty finger food. They’re always a crowd-pleaser and easy to eat standing up!

  5. Can I make the patties ahead and freeze cooked?

    Definitely. Cook the patties fully, let them cool, then freeze in an airtight container with parchment paper between layers. Reheat gently in a skillet or air fryer for the best texture.

Final Thoughts

This Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe has a special place in my heart because it’s one of those dishes that brings comfort and sophistication together effortlessly. Whether I’m cooking for my family or hosting friends, these patties never disappoint. I really hope you’ll give them a go—they’re approachable, delicious, and might just become the dinner you keep coming back to. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll wonder how you ever made chicken patties any other way.

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Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.7 from 12 reviews
  • Author: Caroline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 45 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 12 medium patties
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Mediterranean
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are flavorful and juicy, packed with fresh herbs, spices, and nutritious spinach. Ideal for a wholesome main course, they cook quickly on the stovetop and pair perfectly with rice pilaf, sautéed vegetables, or in hamburger buns.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
  • 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
  • 1 lb. ground chicken
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup Greek yogurt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from half lemon)
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper


Instructions

  1. Heat Oil and Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until sizzling. Add diced onions and minced garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until tender and browned.
  2. Add Spinach: Add chopped baby spinach to the skillet and sauté for 1 minute until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside on a plate to cool for 5 minutes.
  3. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, sautéed onion-spinach mixture, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, fresh dill, lemon juice, dried oregano, paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly or use hands to evenly mix and press ingredients together.
  4. Form Mixture and Chill: Shape the mixture into a firm ball for better binding. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight.
  5. Shape Patties: Take about ½ cup of the chilled chicken mixture at a time and shape into patties by hand. You should get approximately 12 medium-sized patties.
  6. Cook Patties on Stovetop: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat for 2 minutes until hot. Cook patties in batches of 6, searing each side for 3-5 minutes until browned and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
  7. Serve Warm: Serve the Mediterranean chicken patties warm with rice pilaf and sautéed vegetables, or place patties in hamburger buns as a delicious sandwich.

Notes

  • To store leftovers, cool patties to room temperature and place them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
  • Air fryer option: Cook 4 patties per batch at 375°F for 13-15 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden brown and fully cooked.
  • Freeze raw patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and stored in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months.
  • Thaw frozen patties overnight in the fridge before cooking according to the recipe instructions.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 patty
  • Calories: 180 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 280 mg
  • Fat: 9 g
  • Saturated Fat: 1.5 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 8 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg

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