Are you searching for a protein-rich, veggie-loaded meal that’s both delicious and quick to prepare? These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are the answer. Packed with lean ground chicken, fresh spinach, aromatic herbs, and bold spices, they offer a delightful twist on traditional patties. Whether you’re aiming for a healthy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, these patties are sure to satisfy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutrient-Dense: Combining lean protein with fresh vegetables and herbs, these patties are both satisfying and wholesome.
- Flavorful: Ingredients like garlic, dill, oregano, and cumin infuse each bite with Mediterranean flair.
- Versatile: Serve them with rice pilaf, in a pita with tzatziki, or atop a fresh salad.
- Meal Prep Friendly: They store well, making them perfect for preparing in advance.
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 cup baby spinach, chopped
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (from half a lemon)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, cooking for 2–3 minutes until they become soft and golden brown.
- Add Spinach: Stir in chopped spinach and cook for an additional minute until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with the cooled onion-spinach mixture, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
- Chill: Shape the mixture into a firm ball, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and mixture to firm up.
- Shape the Patties: Portion the mixture into 12 even pieces and form each one into a patty about half an inch thick.
- Cook the Patties: In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook patties in batches, about 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Enjoy warm, paired with your choice of sides or accompaniments.
Helpful Tips
- Uniform Size: Ensures even cooking; use a measuring cup or scoop for consistency.
- Avoid Overmixing: Mix just until combined to keep patties tender.
- Use a Thermometer: To ensure patties are cooked through without overcooking.
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Swap ground chicken for turkey or lamb for a different flavor profile.
- Herbs: Replace dill with parsley or cilantro if preferred.
- Spices: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
- Dairy-Free: Use a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
- Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
Yes, place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I know when the patties are done?
Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Can I freeze these patties?
Absolutely. Place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Cook straight from frozen, just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a delightful blend of health and flavor, making them a perfect addition to your meal rotation. Whether you’re serving them at a family dinner or prepping meals for the week, their versatility and taste are sure to impress. Give this recipe a try, and don’t forget to share your experience or explore our other Mediterranean-inspired dishes!
Mediterranean Chicken Patties: A Flavor-Packed, Healthy Dinner in Under an Hour
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 12 patties 1x
Description
Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a quick, healthy dinner idea made with lean chicken, spinach, and bold herbs. Try them today and tag us!
Ingredients
3 tbsp olive oil, divided
1 medium onion, diced
1 tbsp garlic, minced
1 cup baby spinach, chopped
1 lb ground chicken
½ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup Greek yogurt
2 tbsp fresh dill, finely chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp ground black pepper
Instructions
Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan, cooking for 2–3 minutes until they become soft and golden brown.
Add Spinach: Stir in chopped spinach and cook for an additional minute until wilted. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with the cooled onion-spinach mixture, breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, dill, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir until everything is evenly mixed.
Chill: Shape the mixture into a firm ball, cover the bowl with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and mixture to firm up.
Shape the Patties: Portion the mixture into 12 even pieces and form each one into a patty about half an inch thick.
Cook the Patties: In a skillet over medium-high heat, warm the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Cook patties in batches, about 3–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve: Enjoy warm, paired with your choice of sides or accompaniments.
Notes
For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freeze uncooked patties on a tray, then bag. Cook from frozen by adding a few extra minutes.
Optional: Bake at 400°F for 15–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes Chill Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes