There’s something magical about Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties. Picture this: juicy, herb-infused bites that transport you straight to a sun-drenched terrace overlooking the sea. The aroma of garlic and fresh herbs fills your kitchen while your taste buds dance in anticipation of the savory explosion that awaits.
I remember the first time I made these chicken patties for a family gathering. My aunt, who has a PhD in “Critiquing Other People’s Cooking,” took one bite and exclaimed, “Wow! These chicken patties are like a vacation for my mouth!” Since then, they’ve been a staple at every barbecue and potluck, evoking smiles and satisfied sighs from everyone around the table.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- These Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties are incredibly easy to whip up when you’re short on time.
- Their rich flavor profile will tantalize your taste buds with every bite.
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, they make an impressive dish for any gathering.
- Perfectly versatile, you can serve them as appetizers or main dishes with your favorite sides.
I once brought these patties to a picnic where my friend Marc claimed he was on a strict diet. After one taste, he forgot all about it and devoured three patties before I could even blink!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but adjust based on how many guests you expect.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm, fresh garlic cloves for the best flavor; don’t skimp on this!
Fresh Parsley: Bright green parsley adds freshness; opt for flat-leaf variety for more robust flavor.
Feta Cheese: Crumbled feta gives these patties their signature tangy kick; use high-quality cheese if possible.
Panko Breadcrumbs: For extra crunch and texture; they help keep the patties light yet satisfying.
Greek Yogurt: Use full-fat yogurt for creaminess that balances the spices perfectly; it also adds moisture.
Lemon Zest: A sprinkle of zest brightens everything up; it’s like sunshine in your cooking!
Spices (Cumin & Oregano): These spices create that warm Mediterranean flavor; don’t skip them!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties
Prep Your Ingredients: Start by finely chopping garlic and parsley. Grate your lemon zest into a small bowl. This step enhances flavors—trust me!
Mix Everything Together: In a large mixing bowl, combine chopped chicken breasts, garlic, parsley, feta cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix until well combined.
Form the Patties: Grab about a golf ball-sized amount of the mixture and gently shape it into patties about ¾ inch thick. Make sure not to overwork them to keep them tender.
Cook the Patties: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat with olive oil. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through—your kitchen should smell heavenly.
Serve with Style: Once they’re done cooking, place them on paper towels to absorb excess oil. Serve warm with tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad for an incredible meal!
These Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties are not only delicious but also perfect for entertaining or just enjoying a weeknight dinner that feels special!
You Must Know
- Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties are not only delicious but also a delightful blend of spices and flavors.
- Add a zesty yogurt sauce for an extra kick, and your taste buds will dance with joy.
- These patties make for a perfect weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch option.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by mixing the chicken with the spices and vegetables, then form patties before cooking them in a hot skillet. This way, everything comes together seamlessly, ensuring juicy, flavorful patties every time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preference. Try adding feta cheese or olives for an extra burst of flavor. You can also use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lighter twist.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain their crispy texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best results, ensure your chicken is finely chopped to achieve a smoother texture.
- Don’t skip the resting time after mixing; it allows flavors to meld beautifully.
- Always test one patty first to check seasoning adjustments before cooking the rest.
Memories of sharing these chicken patties with friends at a summer barbecue still warm my heart. Their smiles and requests for the recipe made me realize I had created something special.
FAQ
Can I freeze Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties?
Yes, you can freeze them uncooked or cooked for up to three months.
What can I serve with these chicken patties?
Pair them with pita bread, fresh salad, or tzatziki sauce for a complete meal.
How do I know when the patties are done cooking?
Cook until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown on both sides.
Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties
Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties are a delightful fusion of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the sunny coasts of the Mediterranean. Juicy and herb-infused, these chicken patties are perfect for any gathering, whether it’s a casual picnic or an elegant dinner party. With fresh ingredients like garlic, parsley, and feta cheese, each bite bursts with flavor. Serve them as appetizers or alongside a refreshing salad for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, finely chopped
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- ½ cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¾ cup panko breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup full-fat Greek yogurt
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by finely chopping garlic and parsley, and zesting the lemon.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, garlic, parsley, feta cheese, panko breadcrumbs, Greek yogurt, lemon zest, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into patties about ¾ inch thick.
- Heat olive oil in a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve warm with tzatziki sauce or a fresh salad.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty (90g)
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: For extra flavor, consider adding olives or sun-dried tomatoes to the mixture. Ground turkey can be used instead of chicken for a lighter option. Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container for up to three days or frozen for up to three months.
