Mediterranean Chicken Patties

If you’re looking for a flavorful and wholesome dish that brings the essence of Mediterranean cuisine straight to your kitchen, these Mediterranean Chicken Patties are the perfect choice. Packed with aromatic herbs, tender ground chicken, and savory ingredients like garlic, parsley, and sun-dried tomatoes, these patties are as nourishing as they are delicious. Whether you’re serving them as a protein-rich main course, stuffing them in wraps, or pairing them with fresh salads and grains, these patties offer incredible versatility and bold flavor in every bite.

Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a fantastic way to incorporate clean, vibrant ingredients into your everyday meals. They’re simple to prepare, cook quickly, and are wonderfully adaptable to suit different dietary preferences. Best of all, they’re made using wholesome ingredients that are naturally suitable for various dietary requirements, offering both health benefits and crowd-pleasing taste. From weeknight dinners to weekend gatherings, these patties are sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Mediterranean-inspired flavor with herbs, spices, and fresh ingredients
• Easy to prepare with minimal prep time and common pantry staples
• Protein-rich and nourishing without being heavy or greasy
• Ideal for meal prep — make a batch and enjoy throughout the week
• Perfect for wraps, bowls, sandwiches, or as a standalone entree
• Great for family dinners, potlucks, or quick lunchbox options
• Naturally free from alcohol and unsuitable additives, ideal for conscious cooking
• Adaptable — add vegetables, swap herbs, or adjust spice level to taste

Preparation Time and Servings:

• Prep time: 20 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 10 patties
• Serving Size: 2 patties per person

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 230 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 6 g
• Protein: 26 g
• Fat: 12 g
• Fiber: 1.5 g
• Sugar: 1 g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Patties:

• 500g ground chicken (breast or thigh meat, finely minced)
• 1 small red onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh mint leaves, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon sun-dried tomatoes, finely chopped (oil-free or gently blotted)
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• ½ teaspoon paprika
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¾ teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (plus more for pan frying)
• 1 egg (lightly beaten)
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or use crushed oats for a gluten-free option)
• Juice of half a lemon

Optional Garnishes and Serving Additions:

• Fresh tzatziki-style yogurt dip
• Warm flatbread or wraps
• Sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and red onion
• Hummus or tahini drizzle
• Mixed greens or herbed rice

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients

• In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped onion, garlic, parsley, mint, and sun-dried tomatoes.
• Add in the cumin, coriander, paprika, black pepper, and salt. Mix well to distribute the spices evenly.

2. Add the binders

• Stir in the beaten egg, olive oil, and breadcrumbs.
• Squeeze in the lemon juice and mix everything thoroughly until a cohesive mixture forms.

3. Shape the patties

• With clean, slightly oiled hands, form the chicken mixture into round patties, about 2.5 inches wide and ½ inch thick.
• Place them on a parchment-lined tray or plate.

4. Chill the patties (optional but recommended)

• Cover the patties and refrigerate for 15–30 minutes. This helps them hold shape better while cooking.

5. Cook the patties

• Heat a large non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil and cook the patties in batches, 4–5 minutes per side, until golden and fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 75°C/165°F).

6. Rest and serve

• Transfer cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
• Serve warm with your choice of accompaniments or store for later use.

Ingredient Background

• Ground chicken provides a lean, high-protein base that absorbs Mediterranean spices beautifully.
• Fresh parsley and mint add bright, herbaceous notes and aid digestion.
• Sun-dried tomatoes offer a savory depth and rich umami without overpowering the dish.
• Cumin and coriander are staples in Mediterranean and Middle Eastern kitchens, lending earthiness and warmth.
• The use of breadcrumbs and egg ensures the patties stay tender yet hold together well during cooking.
• Lemon juice balances flavors and adds a subtle tanginess that brightens the entire dish.

Technique Tips

• Avoid overmixing the chicken mixture, which can lead to dense patties. Mix just until combined.
• Use a small amount of oil on your hands to prevent sticking when shaping patties.
• A brief chilling step helps firm the mixture and improves the cooking texture.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan during frying — leave space for proper browning.
• To ensure even cooking, press the patties slightly flatter if they puff during frying.
• You can also bake or grill these patties for a lower-oil option.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Serve patties on a bed of herbed quinoa or couscous for a plated meal.
• Create a vibrant chicken patty bowl with tabbouleh, hummus, olives, and roasted vegetables.
• Build a wrap using flatbread, yogurt sauce, crisp vegetables, and a drizzle of tahini.
• Make mini sliders with whole grain buns, lettuce, and tomato for a fun party appetizer.
• Add sliced patties to a fresh green salad with vinaigrette for a protein-packed lunch.
• Pair with stuffed grape leaves or a lentil pilaf for a complete Mediterranean spread.

Additional Tips for Success

• For meal prep, double the batch and refrigerate uncooked patties up to 2 days in advance.
• To keep patties juicy, avoid using overly lean chicken — a slight fat content improves flavor and texture.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes if you prefer a bit of heat.
• Grate in some zucchini or carrot for added moisture and vegetables.
• Use a digital thermometer to confirm doneness without overcooking.
• Pair the patties with a tangy yogurt-based sauce or a garlic-laced dip for contrast.
• Store cooked patties flat between parchment layers to prevent sticking.

Recipe Variations

• Substitute chicken with ground turkey for a similar texture with slight flavor variation.
• Make vegetarian patties using mashed chickpeas, shredded zucchini, and feta cheese.
• Replace breadcrumbs with almond flour or oat flour for a low-carb version.
• Add chopped olives or capers for an extra Mediterranean kick.
• Experiment with spices like sumac or za’atar for an aromatic twist.
• Mix in crumbled cheese like mozzarella or a firm feta-style cheese for richness.
• Try baking at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes as a lighter preparation method.

Freezing and Storage

• Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• To freeze, arrange uncooked patties on a tray and freeze until solid. Then transfer to freezer-safe bags.
• Frozen patties can be cooked directly from frozen — just add 2–3 extra minutes per side.
• Reheat cooked patties in a pan, oven, or air fryer until warmed through.
• Avoid microwaving for extended periods, which may dry them out.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Bake instead of pan-fry to reduce added oil.
• Use whole grain or gluten-free breadcrumbs to boost fiber content.
• Incorporate more vegetables like grated zucchini, spinach, or bell pepper.
• Serve with a light yogurt-based dip instead of creamy sauces.
• Pair with a fresh salad instead of bread or rice for a low-carb meal.
• Choose lean chicken thigh for more flavor with balanced fat.
• Reduce salt and boost flavor using fresh lemon juice and herbs.

Serving Suggestions for Events

• Serve in mini form as appetizers or finger food for gatherings.
• Create a build-your-own wrap station with toppings and dips.
• Offer patties alongside mezze platters with hummus, olives, and roasted vegetables.
• Include them in lunchbox meals with couscous salad and sliced fruit.
• Stack in sliders for kids’ parties or casual events.
• Serve with skewers of grilled vegetables for a summer barbecue.
• Present them in bento-style boxes for office lunches or picnics.

Special Equipment

• Large non-stick or cast iron skillet for even cooking
• Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
• Measuring spoons and cups for accuracy
• Citrus juicer for fresh lemon juice
• Spatula or tongs for flipping patties
• Food-safe gloves or lightly oiled hands for shaping
• Food thermometer to ensure safe internal temperature

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?

• Yes, you can finely mince chicken breast in a food processor if pre-ground chicken is not available. However, adding a bit of olive oil or a slightly fatty cut ensures better texture and moisture.

2. Are these patties suitable for freezing?

• Absolutely! Both cooked and uncooked patties freeze well. Store them in freezer bags with parchment in between and cook directly from frozen or thaw before reheating.

3. Can I make these patties dairy-free?

• The patties themselves are already dairy-free. Just be mindful of the dips and sides you choose — opt for plant-based alternatives to traditional yogurt sauces if needed.

4. How do I keep the patties from falling apart?

• Be sure to include the egg and breadcrumbs, which act as binders. Also, chilling the patties before cooking helps them hold their shape better.

5. Can I bake these instead of frying?

• Yes, baking is a healthier alternative. Place patties on a parchment-lined tray, lightly brush with oil, and bake at 200°C (400°F) for about 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.

6. What side dishes pair well with these patties?

• Try them with couscous salad, herbed rice, roasted vegetables, tabbouleh, or a light cucumber-yogurt salad for a balanced meal.

7. Can I add cheese to the patties?

• Yes, crumbled feta-style or mozzarella cheese can be mixed into the patties for added richness, but it’s optional and can be omitted to keep the dish lighter.

8. What’s the best way to reheat these patties?

• Reheat in a skillet, oven, or air fryer until warmed through. Avoid the microwave, which can make them rubbery or dry.

Conclusion

Mediterranean Chicken Patties bring together the fresh, aromatic flavors of the Mediterranean in a simple yet satisfying dish that’s both nourishing and versatile. Whether served with vibrant salads, tucked into warm wraps, or paired with dips and grains, these patties offer endless ways to elevate your everyday meals. Their balance of lean protein, herbs, and savory elements makes them an ideal staple for anyone seeking wholesome, flavor-forward cooking.

This recipe is easy enough for beginners yet rewarding enough for seasoned home cooks. With tips on variations, storage, and presentation, you’ll have plenty of inspiration to enjoy this dish in new and exciting ways each time. Prepare a batch today, and let your kitchen come alive with the warmth and richness of Mediterranean cuisine.

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