Oh my goodness, let me tell you about these Mediterranean Chicken Patties! They’re packed with flavor and the aroma of Mediterranean spices wafting through my kitchen is just heavenly. I remember the first time I made them for a dinner party; my friends couldn’t get enough! The combination of tender ground chicken, zesty feta, and fresh parsley just sings together. Plus, they’re so versatile—serve them in a pita, on a salad, or just on their own with some tzatziki, and you’ve got a meal that everyone will rave about. Trust me, once you try these patties, you’ll find yourself whipping them up again and again. They’re not just delicious; they’re a little taste of the Mediterranean right at your dinner table!
Ingredients List
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making the best Mediterranean Chicken Patties. Here’s everything you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground chicken: This is the star of the show! Make sure it’s fresh for the best flavor and texture.
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs: Use plain or seasoned—whatever you prefer! They help bind the patties and give them a nice texture.
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled: This adds a wonderful tangy flavor. Don’t skimp on quality; it really makes a difference!
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped: Fresh parsley gives a burst of color and freshness. Chop it up nice and fine.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Ah, garlic! It brings an incredible aroma and depth of flavor. You can adjust this to your taste, but I recommend sticking with one for a nice balance.
- 1 tsp oregano: This classic Mediterranean herb adds warmth and earthiness. You can also use fresh oregano if you have it!
- 1 tsp salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors in your patties. Feel free to adjust based on your dietary needs.
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: For a little kick! Freshly ground is always best for maximum flavor.
- 1 egg: This serves as a binder to hold everything together. Make sure it’s at room temperature for easier mixing.
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying: Use extra virgin for the best taste! It’ll give your patties a lovely crispy exterior.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re all set to make a delicious batch of Mediterranean Chicken Patties!
How to Prepare Mediterranean Chicken Patties
Making Mediterranean Chicken Patties is super straightforward and oh-so-rewarding! Follow these steps, and you’ll have delicious patties ready in no time. Let’s get cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Add the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and egg into the bowl.
- Mix everything together gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. You want to avoid overmixing to keep those patties tender and juicy!
- Now, form the mixture into patties—about 1/2 inch thick works great. You should get around 4 nice-sized patties from this mix.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. You’ll know it’s ready when the oil shimmers slightly.
- Carefully place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re beautifully golden brown and cooked through. If you have a meat thermometer, they should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat!
- Once done, transfer the patties onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Then, serve them hot with your favorite sauce or a fresh salad.
And there you have it! A simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: These Mediterranean Chicken Patties come together in no time, making them perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can whip them up!
- Delicious Flavor: With the combination of spices, fresh herbs, and tangy feta, every bite is packed with flavor that transports you straight to the Mediterranean. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean ground chicken and fresh ingredients, these patties are a healthier alternative to traditional fried options. You can enjoy them guilt-free!
- Versatile Meal Options: Serve them in a pita, on a salad, or alongside your favorite dipping sauce. They’re perfect for any meal—lunch, dinner, or even as an appetizer!
- Make Ahead & Freeze: You can easily prepare these patties in advance and freeze them for later. They hold up wonderfully in the freezer, making meal prep a breeze!
- Kid-Friendly: Even the pickiest eaters will love these patties! They’re flavorful yet mild enough for kids, making them a family favorite.
Tips for Success
To make sure your Mediterranean Chicken Patties turn out perfectly every time, here are a few of my favorite tips! First, don’t be afraid to get creative with the spices—if you love a little heat, add some cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes. Also, if you find the mixture is too wet, a few extra breadcrumbs can help. When frying, make sure your oil is hot enough; otherwise, the patties might stick or absorb too much oil. And here’s a chef’s secret: let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking before serving. This helps them hold their shape and makes them easier to eat! Lastly, a side of homemade tzatziki or a fresh salad elevates the whole meal—trust me, it’s a game changer!
Variations
One of the best parts about these Mediterranean Chicken Patties is how easily they can be customized to suit your taste! If you want to switch things up, try adding different herbs like fresh dill or basil for a unique twist. You can also experiment with spices—cumin or smoked paprika can bring a whole new flavor profile to the mix! Feeling adventurous? Chop up some bell peppers or spinach and fold them into the patty mixture for an extra veggie boost. For a bit of heat, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. And if you’re a fan of different cheeses, try swapping feta for crumbled goat cheese or even adding some shredded mozzarella for that melty goodness. The possibilities are endless, so have fun and make this recipe your own!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to nutrition, keep in mind that values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. That said, here’s a general breakdown of what you can expect for one delicious Mediterranean Chicken Patty:
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 400mg
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
- Protein: 22g
These patties are a great source of protein, and with the fresh ingredients, they’re a nutritious choice for any meal. Enjoy knowing you’re treating yourself to something both tasty and healthy!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your leftover Mediterranean Chicken Patties is super simple! Just let them cool completely, then place them in an airtight container and pop them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for about 3-4 days—perfect for meal prep or quick lunches! If you want to keep them longer, you can freeze them. Just wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and then store them in a freezer bag. They’ll be good for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, simply thaw them in the fridge overnight.
To reheat, I recommend baking them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. This helps maintain their crispy exterior! You can also use a skillet over medium heat, just add a splash of olive oil to keep them from drying out. Enjoy your delicious patties just like the first time!
FAQ Section
Got questions about these Mediterranean Chicken Patties? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common inquiries I get:
Can I use turkey instead of chicken? Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and is a great alternative if you prefer it. Just keep an eye on cooking times as turkey can be slightly leaner.
What if I don’t have feta cheese? No worries! You can substitute crumbled goat cheese for a different tangy twist or even use shredded mozzarella for a creamier texture. Get creative!
Can these patties be baked instead of fried? Yes! If you want a healthier option, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through. They won’t be as crispy, but still delicious!
What’s the best way to serve them? I love serving these patties in pita bread with fresh veggies and tzatziki sauce on the side. They’re also fantastic on a salad or with a side of roasted veggies!
Can I make these patties ahead of time? Definitely! You can prep the mixture and shape the patties a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. They’re perfect for easy weeknight dinners!
Feel free to reach out if you have more questions—I’m here to help you make the best Mediterranean Chicken Patties ever!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Patties: 5 Flavorful Secrets Revealed
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful dish made with ground chicken and Mediterranean spices.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tsp oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 egg
- 2 tbsp olive oil for frying
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta, parsley, garlic, oregano, salt, pepper, and egg.
- Form the mixture into patties.
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Serve hot with your choice of sauce or salad.
Notes
- These patties freeze well.
- Adjust spices to your taste.
- Serve with tzatziki for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 220
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: Mediterranean Chicken Patties, Chicken Patties, Ground Chicken Recipes