If you love vibrant flavors and wholesome meals, then you are going to be absolutely enchanted by this Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe. These little patties pack a beautiful burst of herbs, spices, and tangy lemon that transport your taste buds straight to sun-soaked Mediterranean shores. Perfectly moist and golden on the outside, these patties are as satisfying as they are delicious — ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive dish to share with friends and family.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the flavors just right requires some simple but magic ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in crafting the perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma in these patties.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The star protein, providing a lean and tender base for the patties.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat): Helps bind the mixture and adds a lovely bit of texture.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory depth and a little bit of creamy richness.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Brings a sharp, slightly sweet crunch that enhances flavor complexity.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the patties with that unmistakable warm, aromatic punch.
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Offers a fresh, vibrant note that brightens the whole dish.
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried oregano): Key for that quintessential Mediterranean herbal quality.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Provides a tangy zest that lifts and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds a subtle earthiness and warmth that complements the herbs perfectly.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Contributes a smoky sweetness and a gorgeous color.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances and ties all the flavors together.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and peppery kick.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Used to achieve that golden, crispy exterior on the patties.
How to Make Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe
Step 1: Combine All Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large bowl and adding the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, oregano, lemon juice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly. This is where all those fantastic flavors come together, so make sure to get a nice, even blend without overworking the mixture.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once the mixture feels cohesive and easy to handle, form it into small patties about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. Making uniform patties lets them cook evenly and look appealing on the plate. There’s something so satisfying about shaping them yourself — it makes the dish feel truly homemade and special.
Step 3: Cook to Golden Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully add the patties in a single layer. Don’t crowd the pan — cook in batches if necessary. Let them cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust and are fully cooked through. Use a meat thermometer if you want to be precise; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C.
Step 4: Rest Before Serving
After cooking, transfer the patties to a plate and give them a couple of minutes to rest. This brief pause allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite juicy and tender. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference!
How to Serve Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of this recipe lies not only in the patties but also in how you dress them up. Fresh garnishes like a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra lemon juice add brightness. You can also add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tzatziki to bring a cool creaminess that complements the warm spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
These patties are wonderfully versatile when it comes to sides. A crisp Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and feta cheese pairs wonderfully, adding crunch and freshness. Alternatively, try serving them over fluffy couscous or alongside roasted vegetables for a hearty, balanced meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe as sliders in pita pockets with homemade hummus and pickled vegetables. Or create a mezze platter featuring these patties alongside olives, flatbread, and dips for a festive spread that will wow any guest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, making for a convenient and tasty next-day meal or snack.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet, freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. This keeps them from sticking together and lets you have ready-made patties on hand, perfect for busy days.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the refrigerated or thawed patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through or pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes to maintain their crispiness. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep that delicious golden crust intact.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute, offering a similar lean protein base. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time, as turkey can cook slightly faster.
What can I use if I don’t have fresh oregano?
If you don’t have fresh oregano, dried oregano is a perfect alternative. Use about one teaspoon dried oregano to match the flavor intensity of fresh herbs in this recipe.
Are these patties suitable for meal prep?
Yes, they are excellent for meal prep! Cook a batch, store in the fridge, and enjoy them throughout the week for quick lunches or dinners that don’t compromise on flavor.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Sure! Baking is a great healthier option. Place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake at 400°F for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer checking that the internal temperature has reached 165°F or 74°C. They should also feel firm to the touch and have no pink inside.
Final Thoughts
Trust me when I say this Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe is destined to become one of your go-to favorites. It effortlessly combines fresh, vibrant ingredients with simple techniques to deliver a dish that’s equally satisfying and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these patties are sure to bring warmth and happiness to your table. Dive in and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a flavorful and healthy dish featuring ground chicken blended with herbs, spices, and Parmesan cheese, then pan-fried to golden perfection. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, they combine aromatic oregano, lemon juice, and cumin for a delicious Mediterranean twist.
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
- Combine 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.
- Form Patties: Form the mixture into small patties, about 1 to 1 1/2 inches in diameter, ensuring they hold together well for cooking.
- Heat Oil and Cook Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties in batches if needed. Cook each side for 4-5 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the patties from the skillet and allow them to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the juices redistribute and achieve optimal flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use whole wheat breadcrumbs for added fiber and nutrition.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking and browning.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is safe to eat.
- These patties can be served with a side salad or inside pita bread for a Mediterranean-style sandwich.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
