These Mediterranean inspired chicken patties are light, juicy, and packed with flavor! Mixed with fresh herbs and spices, they are perfect for any meal.
Pair them with a cool and creamy tzatziki sauce, and you’ve got a winning dish! Trust me, you’ll be making these more often than you think! 😄
I love serving them with a side of roasted veggies or a salad for an easy weeknight dinner. So tasty and healthy, it’s a win-win!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for the patties. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. For a vegetarian version, consider using cooked chickpeas or lentils, mashed well, to simulate the texture.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and minced garlic add depth to the dish. You can switch to shallots for a milder taste, or even use garlic powder in a pinch, though fresh is always better.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and dill are essential for that fresh Mediterranean flavor. If you can’t find fresh dill, you can opt for dried dill, but reduce the amount to about one-third. Mint is also a great alternative for a fresh twist.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. For a healthier alternative, you can use crushed crackers or even almond flour!
Greek Yogurt: The star of the tzatziki sauce! If you’re in a pinch, plain sour cream can work as a substitute. You can also use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan option.
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Patties Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking the patties so they are golden brown outside yet tender inside can be tricky. Here are some tips to get it just right:
- Make sure to preheat your skillet to medium heat. If it’s too hot, the outside will burn before the inside is cooked.
- Cook patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check if the internal temperature is at least 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet! This allows proper cooking and browning, so do batches if necessary.
These simple steps will ensure your patties are deliciously cooked every time! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties with Tzatziki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For The Tzatziki Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely diced or grated (excess water squeezed out)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For The Mediterranean Salad:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (mix of red and yellow if possible)
- 1 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal takes about 15-20 minutes to prepare and another 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be looking at about 40 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, healthy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Patties Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, cumin, lemon juice, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly with your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well incorporated.
2. Shape the Patties:
Using your hands, form the mixture into 6 equal-sized patties, each about 3 inches in diameter. Keep them uniform so they cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties to the skillet. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they’re nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove them from the skillet and set aside.
4. Make the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, diced/grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined, then refrigerate until you’re ready to serve.
5. Prepare the Mediterranean Salad:
In a medium bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, cucumber, Kalamata olives, and dill. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss everything gently to combine.
6. Assemble the Dish:
On each plate, place a bed of fresh lettuce leaves. Arrange 2-3 chicken patties on top of the lettuce, add a serving of the Mediterranean salad on the side, and include a small bowl or dollop of tzatziki sauce for dipping.
7. Garnish and Serve:
For a final touch, garnish the tzatziki sauce with a small sprig of dill. Serve immediately, and enjoy your fresh and flavorful Mediterranean inspired chicken patties with tzatziki!
This recipe is all about fresh, herbaceous flavors that capture the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. The cool and creamy tzatziki pairs perfectly with the bright and zesty salad!
Can I Use Different Ground Meat for the Patties?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, beef, or lamb can be used as substitutes for ground chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary depending on the type of meat. Ensure that all types reach their respective safe internal temperatures.
How Do I Prevent the Patties from Falling Apart?
To keep the patties from falling apart, make sure to incorporate the breadcrumbs and egg thoroughly into the mixture, as they act as binders. If needed, adding an extra tablespoon of breadcrumbs can help if the mixture feels too wet.
Can I Make the Tzatziki Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, the tzatziki sauce can be made up to 2 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. This way, the flavors have time to meld together, making it even tastier!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the chicken patties in a skillet or oven to maintain their texture, and enjoy with the tzatziki sauce and salad!
