The moment the golden-brown patties hit the skillet, a delightful aroma fills my kitchen, making it impossible not to smile. It’s funny how something so simple—ground chicken, seasoned just right—can transform a weeknight dinner into a flavorsome Mediterranean feast. I discovered the joy of these Mediterranean Chicken Patties on a sunny afternoon, experimenting with ingredients I already had on hand.
With a blend of feta cheese, fresh parsley, and a hint of cumin, each bite takes your taste buds on a little journey. They’re not just easy to whip up—taking only 30 minutes from start to finish—but they also have that wonderful comfort food vibe that keeps my family coming back for more. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply looking to spice up your meal routine, these patties are sure to impress without the fuss. Join me in making a dish that celebrates homemade simplicity and bursts with flavor!
Why You'll Love This Mediterranean Chicken Patties
- These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a breeze to prepare, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in just 30 minutes.
- Bursting with vibrant flavors from the feta cheese and fresh herbs, they will tantalize your taste buds and keep you coming back for more.
- Their versatility shines through as they can be served in various ways, whether as a hearty main course or as a tasty addition to salads and wraps.
- Visually appealing with their golden-brown exterior, these patties are sure to impress anyone at your table and elevate your dining experience.
Mediterranean Chicken Patties Ingredients
Get ready to create mouthwatering Mediterranean Chicken Patties with these simple ingredients!
For the Patties
• Ground chicken – A lean protein that serves as the base for our flavorful patties.
• Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture and gives the patties a lovely texture.
• Feta cheese, crumbled – Adds a tangy, creamy flavor, perfect for Mediterranean dishes.
• Parsley, chopped – Fresh herbs brighten the patties, offering a pop of color and flavor.
• Onion, finely chopped – Provides essential sweetness and moisture to the mix.
• Garlic, minced – Infuses the patties with a fragrant depth that elevates the dish.
• Oregano – A classic Mediterranean herb that brings that authentic flavor to the patties.
• Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy note, enhancing the overall depth of the seasoning.
• Egg – Binds all the ingredients together for a perfect patty consistency.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to ensure the patties burst with flavor.
Feel free to experiment by adding your favorite spices or veggies to make this dish truly your own!
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, egg, salt, and pepper.
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Mix Well: With clean hands or a spatula, gently mix the ingredients together until everything is well incorporated. Aim for a uniform texture, ensuring the seasonings are evenly distributed.
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Form Patties: Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into patties, roughly 2-3 inches in diameter. Make sure they are even in size so they cook uniformly.
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Heat Skillet: Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Allow it to warm up for a couple of minutes before adding the patties to ensure a nice sear.
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Cook Patties: Place the patties in the skillet, making sure not to overcrowd. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when they’re firm to the touch.
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Serve Warm: Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and serve warm. They’re fantastic on their own or paired with a fresh salad or yogurt sauce.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of lemon juice for an extra zesty kick.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Mediterranean Chicken Patties Variations
Feel free to get creative and make these Mediterranean Chicken Patties uniquely yours with these fun twists!
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Gluten-Free: Substitute breadcrumbs with crushed gluten-free crackers or almond flour for a delicious, gluten-free option.
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Spicy Kick: Mix in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to add some heat. The warmth of the spices complements the chicken beautifully.
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Extra Veggies: Fold in grated zucchini or finely chopped spinach for a nutritious boost. Adding veggies not only enhances flavor but also increases moisture.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil instead of parsley. This alteration brings a fresh brightness that transforms the dish!
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Cheese Swap: Try ricotta or goat cheese instead of feta for a creamy texture. Each variety lends a different taste profile—perfect for those craving variation.
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Mediterranean Style: Incorporate sun-dried tomatoes or olives into the mix. Their briny punch brings the essence of the Mediterranean right into your kitchen.
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Baked Option: Instead of frying, bake the patties in the oven at 400°F for 20 minutes or until golden brown. This method is lighter and still delicious!
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Zesty Topping: Top cooked patties with a yogurt sauce or tzatziki drizzled with lemon juice. This cooling addition beautifully balances the rich flavors of the chicken.
How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Chicken Patties
Room Temperature: Store leftover Mediterranean Chicken Patties at room temperature for up to 2 hours if they are not kept warm.
Fridge: Place cooked patties in an airtight container, refrigerating for up to 3 days. Reheat on a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Freezer: For long-term storage, freeze patties in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Warm them on a skillet over medium heat or microwave for quick enjoyment.
What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken Patties?
Elevate your mealtime experience with delightful pairings that perfectly complement these savory patties!
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Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, and olives, this salad adds a bright, crunchy contrast to the rich flavors of the patties.
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Tzatziki Sauce: This creamy yogurt sauce, filled with garlic and cucumber, provides a cool, tangy dip that enhances the Mediterranean experience.
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Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers, roasted to perfection, offer a hearty yet healthy companion that brings out the dish’s vibrancy.
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Hummus and Pita Bread: The nutty, creamy hummus alongside warm pita makes for a delightful appetizer that complements the chicken’s flavors.
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Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs and light spices can serve as a wholesome base that rounds out the meal beautifully while adding texture.
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Lemon Rice: Zesty lemon-infused rice brightens the palate and mirrors the Mediterranean essence, making for an uplifting plate.
Enjoy your Mediterranean Chicken Patties alongside these scrumptious sides for a meal that’s not just filling but packed with flavor and flair!
Make Ahead Options
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep and can save you valuable time during busy weeknights! You can form the patties up to 24 hours in advance; simply cover them tightly and refrigerate to keep them fresh. For an even longer option, prepare them and freeze them for up to 3 months—just layer the patties between parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight, then just sear them in a skillet for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through. With these make-ahead tips, you’ll enjoy delicious homemade patties with minimal effort and maximum flavor!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making Mediterranean Chicken Patties, be sure to mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the chicken, which can lead to tough patties.
- If you find the mixture is too wet or sticky, adding a little extra breadcrumbs can help achieve the right consistency.
- To ensure even cooking, make patties of uniform size and shape, about 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Cook the patties in a preheated skillet over medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best ground chicken?
Absolutely! When selecting ground chicken, look for meat that appears pink without any dark spots, which may indicate spoilage. Don’t hesitate to ask your butcher for recommendations; they can often provide fresher options with less fat, providing a healthier base for your patties.
How do I store leftover Mediterranean Chicken Patties?
Very easy! Place your cooked Mediterranean Chicken Patties in an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. They should be reheated on a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until they’re warmed through. Adding a splash of water in the microwave helps to keep them moist!
Can I freeze Mediterranean Chicken Patties?
Absolutely! For freezing, start by laying the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze them in a single layer until they’re solid, which takes about 1-2 hours. Then, transfer the patties into a freezer-safe bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating!
What should I do if my patties fall apart while cooking?
Oh no! If your patties are breaking apart while cooking, this may indicate that the mixture is too wet. Try adding more breadcrumbs to the mix until you achieve a firmer consistency. If you notice they are still falling apart, consider letting them chill in the fridge for 30 minutes before cooking to help the ingredients meld together more solidly.
Are Mediterranean Chicken Patties safe for my pet?
It’s great that you’re considering your furry friends! Mediterranean Chicken Patties are generally safe for dogs, but make sure to avoid any extra spices, particularly garlic and onion, as they can be harmful to pets. When in doubt, consult your veterinarian to ensure it aligns with your pet’s dietary needs.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Absolutely, the more the merrier! If you don’t have feta cheese, feel free to try goat cheese or mozzarella for a different flavor. You can also switch out the ground chicken for ground turkey or even a plant-based alternative. Just keep an eye on the cooking times, as these may vary slightly depending on the ingredient you choose!
Equipment
- non-stick skillet
- Mixing bowl
Ingredients
For the Patties
- 1 lb Ground chicken A lean protein that serves as the base
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs Helps bind the mixture
- 1/2 cup Feta cheese, crumbled Adds a tangy, creamy flavor
- 1/4 cup Parsley, chopped Fresh herbs brighten the patties
- 1 medium Onion, finely chopped Provides essential sweetness
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced Infuses the patties with fragrance
- 1 tsp Oregano Classic Mediterranean herb
- 1 tsp Cumin Adds a warm, earthy note
- 1 large Egg Binds all ingredients together
- to taste Salt and pepper Essential seasonings
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, oregano, cumin, egg, salt, and pepper.
- With clean hands or a spatula, gently mix the ingredients together until everything is well incorporated.
- Take a handful of the mixture and shape it into patties, roughly 2-3 inches in diameter.
- Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium heat for a couple of minutes.
- Place the patties in the skillet, avoiding overcrowding, and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side.
- Once cooked, remove the patties from the skillet and serve warm.
