Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Experience the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean with these healthy and easy Mediterranean Chicken Patties that combine aromatic herbs and spices with lean ground chicken. They make a perfect all-occasion dish whether tucked into warm pita bread, piled atop a crisp salad, or enjoyed solo with your favorite dipping sauce. These soft yet savory bites are an instant crowd-pleaser and have saved many a weeknight at my house when I needed something quick and wholesome.

My family instantly fell in love with these after one summer picnic By the end of the night there was not a single patty left Everyone looked for more

Ingredients

• Olive oil: for richness and to help achieve a perfect golden crust on the patties Choose good quality extra virgin for best flavor
• Onion: brings gentle sweetness and natural moisture to each patty Use a fresh firm onion with no soft spots
• Garlic: adds a punch of savory aromatics and depth Look for bulbs with plump cloves and tight skin
• Baby spinach: infuses each patty with freshness and color tender leaves work best
• Ground chicken: keeps these patties lean and tender Opt for chicken that is pink with no discoloration
• Breadcrumbs: provide structure and help the patties hold together Choose fresh or homemade for the best texture
• Greek yogurt: keeps everything juicy with a touch of creaminess Use full-fat or low-fat plain for more flavor
• Fresh dill: brings a bright grassy taste Finely chopped from fresh stalks is always better than dried
• Lemon juice: adds a bright acidic note Use juice from a freshly squeezed lemon for zing
• Dried oregano: brings earthiness and traditional Mediterranean flavor Choose high-quality oregano with a strong aroma
• Paprika: gives subtle smokiness and color Sweet or mild paprika is best
• Ground cumin: deepens the warmth and savory notes Choose a fresh aromatic cumin powder
• Salt: pulls all the flavors together Use sea salt if possible
• Ground black pepper: gives a bit of heat Always use freshly cracked pepper when you can

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics:

Sauté diced onion in a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat Cook it for about five minutes until it softens and turns translucent which builds sweetness into the base Next add the minced garlic and stir just until it becomes fragrant about thirty seconds Take the pan off the heat

Mix the Patty Mixture:

In a large bowl thoroughly combine the sautéed onion and garlic with the chopped spinach ground chicken fresh breadcrumbs Greek yogurt dill lemon juice dried oregano paprika ground cumin salt and black pepper Mix everything gently but well using clean hands or a spatula so every bite gets packed with flavor

Form the Patties:

Divide the chicken mixture into eight equal portions Shape each into a patty about half an inch thick Pat them together firmly to help them hold their shape during cooking

Cook the Patties:

Heat the remaining olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Gently place the patties in the hot oil and let them cook for about five to six minutes per side Flip only once so they develop a golden brown crust and remain juicy inside Make sure the patties are cooked through with no pink in the center

Drain and Serve:

Once the patties are cooked place them on a paper towel lined plate to remove extra oil Serve immediately while hot and tender They are wonderful with fresh lemon wedges yogurt sauce or your favorite Mediterranean sides

Save This

For me the dill always steals the show It adds such a fresh cool note that cuts through the savory ground chicken I recall making extra homemade tzatziki just to drizzle over these for our last family BBQ The combination was unforgettable and even the kids asked for seconds

Storage Tips

Keep leftover patties refrigerated in an airtight container for up to three days Reheat gently in a skillet with a splash of water or oil to maintain their tenderness You can also freeze uncooked or cooked patties individually wrapped for up to three months Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use ground turkey in place of chicken for a similar lean result If you do not have Greek yogurt a thick plain yogurt will work Breadcrumbs can be swapped for gluten-free panko if needed For a dairy-free version try a thick plant-based yogurt

Serving Suggestions

Tuck these chicken patties into warmed pita with cucumber tomato and greens Drizzle with tzatziki or yogurt sauce Serve alongside couscous or grain salads for a complete meal They also shine as an appetizer with hummus or baba ghanoush

Cultural Context

Chicken patties inspired by Mediterranean street food carry the influence of flavors found from Greece to Turkey Aromatic herbs like dill and oregano and the combo of yogurt and lemon evoke classic meze platters and family-style feasts These are great for gatherings when you want something both satisfying and fresh

Common Queries

→ Can I substitute ground turkey for chicken?

Yes, ground turkey can be used in place of chicken. It offers a similar texture and absorbs Mediterranean flavors just as well.

→ What's the best way to serve these patties?

They go well in pita bread with crisp veggies, on top of mixed greens, or as appetizers paired with yogurt-based sauces.

→ Can I make these patties ahead of time?

Absolutely! Form and store them in the refrigerator up to a day ahead. Cook just before serving for best results.

→ Are breadcrumbs required?

Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture and ensure the patties stay tender, but you can replace them with panko or a gluten-free alternative.

→ How do I ensure the patties stay moist?

Greek yogurt and fresh spinach help add moisture. Avoid overcooking to maintain their tenderness and juiciness.