Name: Savory Mediterranean Chicken Patties for Easy Weeknight Meals
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be a substitute.); 1 medium Diced Onion (Shallots work well for a milder taste.); 2 cloves Minced Garlic (Garlic powder can be used if in a pinch.); 2 cups Chopped Spinach (Consider using kale as a substitute.); 1 pound Ground Chicken (Ground turkey or plant-based meat can also be used.); 1 cup Breadcrumbs (Gluten-free breadcrumbs are available.); 1/2 cup Greek Yogurt (Sour cream can be used as a substitute.); 1 tablespoon Dill; 2 tablespoons Lemon Juice; 1 teaspoon Oregano; 1 teaspoon Paprika; 1 teaspoon Cumin; 1 teaspoon Salt; 1/2 teaspoon Pepper; Tzatziki Sauce (Pairs beautifully with the seasoned patties.); Fresh Salad (Consider a cucumber-tomato mix.); Pita Bread (Perfect for wrapping the patties.)

Have you ever found yourself craving a burst of vibrant flavors that transport you straight to the sun-soaked Mediterranean coast? That’s exactly what these Easy Mediterranean Chicken Patties offer—a delightful combo of fresh herbs and spices that invites everyone to the table. This quick recipe excels as a family-friendly meal option, easily serving weeknight dinners or casual gatherings. Not only are these patties versatile—great on their own, stuffed in pita bread, or paired with a refreshing salad—but they also accommodate different dietary needs with simple swaps like ground turkey or plant-based alternatives. Ready to elevate your dinner plans and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into this delicious, nutritious dish together!

Why are Mediterranean Chicken Patties a must-try?

Irresistible Flavor: Packed with aromatic herbs like dill and oregano, these patties offer a burst of Mediterranean freshness that will have your taste buds dancing.

Flexible Ingredients: Need to cater to dietary restrictions? Swap out ground chicken for ground turkey or a plant-based option without sacrificing flavor.

Easy to Make: Even beginner cooks can whip these up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Whether served as a starter or nestled in pita bread, these patties are sure to win over friends and family alike—just like my Honey BBQ Chicken recipe!

Healthy Choice: With nutrient-rich ingredients like spinach and Greek yogurt, you’re not just enjoying tasty food, but also fueling your body better than any fast food option.

Mediterranean Chicken Patties Ingredients

For the Patties
• Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps to brown the patties; avocado oil can be a tasty substitute.
• Diced Onion – Provides a sweet flavor base; shallots work well for a milder taste.
• Minced Garlic – Enhances overall flavor; if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can stand in.
• Chopped Spinach – Offers vibrant color and nutrition; consider substituting with hearty kale.
• Ground Chicken – The main protein source that keeps the patties moist; ground turkey or plant-based meat could be used to accommodate different diets.
• Breadcrumbs – Adds structure and texture to the patties; gluten-free breadcrumbs are available for gluten-conscious individuals.
• Greek Yogurt – Provides creaminess with less fat than mayonnaise; sour cream can be used as a suitable alternative.
• Dill, Lemon Juice, Oregano, Paprika, Cumin, Salt, Pepper – Elevate flavors and aromas; don’t hesitate to experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or mint for variety.

Serving Suggestions
• Tzatziki Sauce – A creamy cooling contrast that pairs beautifully with the seasoned patties!
• Fresh Salad – Lightens up the meal and adds a refreshing crunch; consider a simple cucumber-tomato mix.
• Pita Bread – Perfect for wrapping the patties, offering a fun handheld option that everyone will love!

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are not just a meal choice; they’re an experience bursting with flavor and nutrition!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
In a medium skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until they become translucent and fragrant. Immediately add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until aromatic. This forms the flavorful base for your Mediterranean Chicken Patties.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed onion and garlic with chopped spinach, ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix until all ingredients are thoroughly blended together. The mixture should be slightly sticky but hold together well, indicating your patties will have a great texture.

Step 3: Form the Patties
With clean hands, divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into patties about ½ inch thick. Aim for uniformity in size to ensure even cooking throughout, which is crucial for your Mediterranean Chicken Patties. Set these aside on a plate while you prepare to pan-fry them.

Step 4: Heat the Skillet
Return the skillet to medium heat and add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil, allowing it to heat until shimmering. Carefully place the patties into the hot skillet, ensuring they are not overcrowded. Let them cook for 5-6 minutes on one side, or until they turn golden brown and you can easily lift them without sticking.

Step 5: Flip and Finish Cooking
Gently flip each patty and continue to cook for another 5-6 minutes on the other side. Look for a similar golden brown color and make sure they are cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Once done, transfer the patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Mediterranean Chicken Patties are now ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm alongside fresh veggies, a side salad, or nestled in pita bread with a dollop of tzatziki sauce. Experience the delightful flavors and textures that make this dish a crowd-pleasing favorite for family meals or gatherings.

Mediterranean Chicken Patties Variations

Get ready to personalize your Mediterranean Chicken Patties with these delicious twists that will awaken your culinary creativity!

Turkey Swap: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey for a leaner, hearty version. The flavor will remain rich, but with fewer calories!
Plant-Based Option: Use plant-based ground meat to create a vegetarian or vegan twist. It’s a fantastic way to keep the flavors while catering to different dietary needs. Watch everyone enjoy this meat-free delight!
Gluten-Free Alternative: Try gluten-free breadcrumbs to make these patties suitable for gluten-sensitive friends and family. Enjoy the same great texture and flavor without any discomfort.
Spice It Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a kick of heat. This adjustment will transform your patties into a sizzling sensation, sure to impress spice lovers.
Herbal Boost: Instead of dill and oregano, experiment with fresh parsley or mint to infuse a new layer of flavor. This little tweak can provide a fresh, bright twist that everyone will love!
Creamy Swap: Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream or a dairy-free alternative to mix things up. It adds a completely different creamy texture and taste that’s equally delightful.
Veggie Power: Incorporate finely diced bell peppers or zucchini into the mixture for extra nutrition and texture. This not only enhances the flavor but also elevates the color of the patties that resemble a garden fresh dish.
Cheesy Delight: Add crumbled feta cheese to the patty mixture for an additional burst of flavor. The creaminess of the cheese complements the herbs beautifully and will make these patties even more irresistible.

Feel free to combine a few of these ideas together! You could even think about serving them alongside my Grilled Chicken Broccoli for a truly delightful and nutritious family meal that everyone will rave about. Happy cooking!

Expert Tips for Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Sauté Until Sweet: Make sure to sauté the onion until it becomes sweet and fragrant, providing a rich flavor base for your patties.
Uniform Size: Form patties of similar size for even cooking; this ensures that all your Mediterranean Chicken Patties cook through perfectly without burning.
Binding Solutions: If your patties tend to break apart while cooking, increase breadcrumbs or add an egg to the mix for better binding.
Cook in Batches: Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary to achieve that lovely golden brown crust on each patty.
Storage Tips: These patties can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for busy nights—just reheat before serving to maintain crispiness.

What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Elevate your dining experience by pairing these flavorful patties with delightful sides and complementary flavors that enhance every bite!

Creamy Tzatziki Sauce: This refreshing yogurt-based dip adds a cool and tangy contrast, perfectly balancing the spices in the patties.
Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with a vinaigrette or citrus dressing adds a crisp, refreshing element that brightens the entire meal.
Pita Bread: Soft and warm pita is perfect for wrapping around the patties, making for a fun and interactive dining experience everyone will enjoy.
Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa adds a wholesome body to your meal, infusing protein and fiber while complementing the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Think about adding some roasted vegetables for a pop of color and texture on the plate. Grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or a medley of seasonal veggies can ignite the whole dish!

Sparkling Water with Lemon: For a refreshing beverage, this effervescent drink cleanses the palate between bites, enhancing your culinary journey.

How to Store and Freeze Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Fridge: Store fully cooked Mediterranean Chicken Patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet until warmed through.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties, placing parchment paper between layers for easy separation. They can last up to 3 months in the freezer without losing flavor.

Reheating: To reheat from frozen, allow patties to thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet for a crispy exterior, or microwave until hot throughout.

Make-Ahead Option: Prepare the patties ahead of time and keep them raw in the fridge for 1-2 days or frozen for 3 months. Cook straight from the fridge or freezer, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Make Ahead Options

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the mixture up to 24 hours in advance, mixing all the ingredients and forming the patties. To maintain their texture, keep the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook. When it’s time to serve, simply heat a skillet with olive oil and cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and cooked through. Alternatively, you can cook the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 3 days for quick reheating on busy weeknights. Just remember, they’ll be just as delicious!

Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best ingredients for my Mediterranean Chicken Patties?
Absolutely! For the freshest flavor, select ingredients that are ripe and aromatic. Choose firm, unblemished onion and garlic, as well as vibrant green spinach. When picking ground chicken or turkey, opt for packages that are bright in color and have a fresh smell. If you’re going for plant-based options, check the ingredient list for minimal additives.

How should I store leftovers of the Mediterranean Chicken Patties?
Very simple! Cooked patties can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Just make sure to let them cool completely before sealing them up. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet to restore that lovely crispy exterior—just a few minutes on medium heat should do the trick!

Can I freeze Mediterranean Chicken Patties?
Absolutely! You can freeze the cooked patties to enjoy later. Just make sure to lay a sheet of parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container, and they’ll last for up to 3 months. To reheat from frozen, thaw them overnight in the fridge and then warm them up in a skillet or microwave.

What if my Mediterranean Chicken Patties fall apart while cooking?
No worries! If you find that your patties are breaking apart, it could be due to not enough binding. Try adding an extra tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs to the mixture or beat one egg into the mix; this will help hold everything together nicely. Also, ensure your patties are compact and uniform in size before frying.

Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Of course! If you’re cooking for someone with allergies or dietary restrictions, feel free to substitute ingredients. Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free option and plant-based meat for a vegetarian or vegan variation. Always ensure the ingredients you choose meet your family’s dietary needs.

Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties and keep them raw in the fridge for 1-2 days before cooking them. They can also be frozen raw for up to 3 months. Just adjust your cooking time accordingly when cooking them from frozen or refrigerate. This makes it super easy to whip up a quick and delicious meal whenever you need!