If you’re craving a dish that bursts with vibrant, fresh flavors and a satisfying texture, these Mediterranean Chicken Patties are exactly what you need. This Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe combines juicy ground chicken with fragrant herbs, zesty lemon, and warm spices to create patties that are crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Perfectly seasoned and easy to make, these patties bring a taste of the sunny Mediterranean coast right to your kitchen and are sure to become a favorite in your weeknight dinner rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe. Each component adds something special—whether it’s the savory depth from Parmesan, the fresh vibrancy of herbs, or the gentle heat from cumin and paprika—to build layers of flavor and texture that make every bite a delight.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean base of the patties, providing tender, juicy meat.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat): Helps bind everything together while adding a subtle nuttiness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a rich, salty bite that elevates the overall flavor.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Gives a mild sweetness and a little crunch.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the patties with classic aromatic warmth.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Brings fresh, herbaceous brightness.
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano): Offers an authentic Mediterranean herbal note.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Adds a zingy citrus lift that brightens all the flavors.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthiness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: For a gentle smoky warmth and beautiful color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a subtle kick of heat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Perfect for achieving a golden, crispy crust on the patties.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by combining the ground chicken with the breadcrumbs, Parmesan, red onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures every patty is bursting with balanced flavor and has the right texture that holds together beautifully without being dry.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Next, form the mixture into small patties about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. This size is perfect for even cooking and makes them easy to flip in the pan. Taking a little time here to shape them uniformly helps create those wonderfully crisp edges we all love.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, place the patties in the pan—cook in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, aiming for a golden brown crust and ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe and juicy results.
Step 4: Rest Before Serving
After cooking, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This step helps retain their juiciness and makes them even more enjoyable to eat.
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a dollop of creamy tzatziki, or a squeeze of lemon juice can complement these patties perfectly. These additions highlight the fresh, zesty nature of the patties and add a refreshing contrast to the savory flavors.
Side Dishes
Pair these patties with a light Greek salad, fluffy couscous, or roasted vegetables for a meal that feels both satisfying and balanced. The clean, bright flavors of the sides will amplify the aromatic herbs and spices in the Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe, making the whole plate sing.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these patties in pita pockets with mixed greens and a drizzle of garlic yogurt sauce. Alternatively, stack them on a bed of herbed rice or offer alongside warm, crusty bread for a rustic Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This makes for a quick lunch or dinner option that still tastes fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by arranging them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe freezes beautifully for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy them anytime with minimal prep.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium-low heat with a touch of oil to restore that lovely crispy exterior, or pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Avoid microwaving whenever possible to keep their texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use different meat instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or even a mix of ground lamb would work wonderfully. Just keep the seasoning the same to maintain that Mediterranean flavor profile.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free crumbs or crushed nuts like almonds or walnuts for a tasty, nutty alternative.
What can I serve with these patties for a low-carb option?
Try serving the patties alongside roasted cauliflower, a fresh cucumber salad, or sautéed greens to keep things light and low in carbohydrates without sacrificing flavor.
How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the patties are cooked through but still juicy.
Can I bake these patties instead of frying them?
Yes, baking at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, is a great hands-off method that also yields a nice crust.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe a try—there’s something incredibly satisfying about the way the herbs, spices, and lemon come together in these patties. They’re versatile, quick to make, and perfect for any meal. Once you taste them, I’m confident they’ll become one of your go-to recipes for easy yet impressive dinners. Enjoy every flavorful bite!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are flavorful, juicy, and packed with herbs and spices. Perfect for a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, these patties combine ground chicken with fresh parsley, oregano, and a hint of lemon juice, cooked to golden perfection in a skillet.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, red onion, garlic, parsley, oregano, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined to ensure all flavors are evenly distributed.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into small patties, approximately 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, making sure they are compact but not too dense for even cooking.
- Heat Skillet and Cook: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet. Cook them in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding, allowing 4-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Serve warm as a main dish or as a flavorful addition to salads or sandwiches.
Notes
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and better nutrition.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure food safety.
- Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried oregano works fine in a pinch.
- These patties can be served with tzatziki sauce or a side salad for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
