Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Nothing captures the essence of a sun-drenched Mediterranean afternoon quite like these vibrant, herb-kissed chicken patties. Packed with tangy feta cheese, fresh parsley, and just the right hint of garlic and oregano, every bite feels like a little escape to a coastal taverna. The golden crust that forms when they sizzle in olive oil promises a delightful crunch, while the tender interior stays juicy and flavorful. With minimal prep time—just 15 minutes of chopping and mixing—you’re set to enjoy a homemade dish that tastes anything but mundane. These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are the perfect union of wholesome ingredients and bold Greek-inspired flavors, all coming together in a quick and satisfying package.

Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner, a lunch you’ll actually look forward to, or an impressive appetizer for your next get-together, these patties deliver. I still remember the summer barbecue when I whipped up a batch and watched friends line up for seconds, eagerly dipping each patty into cool tzatziki. The vibrant reds of the onion, the creamy white of the feta, and the fresh green of parsley made for a feast not just for the palate but also for the eyes. Best of all, these little delights can be made ahead and frozen, ready to turn any ordinary meal into something extraordinary. Grab your skillet—your taste buds are in for a real treat!

KEY INGREDIENTS IN MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN PATTIES

To bring these succulent chicken patties to life, we rely on a handful of simple yet powerful ingredients. Each one plays a special role, working together to balance texture, flavor, and tenderness. From the rich creaminess of cheese to the zest of fresh herbs, here’s why every component matters:

• Ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps these patties light and healthy while providing a tender, juicy bite.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties and absorb excess moisture, ensuring a consistent texture without weighing them down.
• Feta cheese: Crumbled feta adds a slightly salty, tangy pop in every mouthful, giving these patties their signature Greek flair.
• Red onion: Finely chopped for a subtle crunch and a hint of sweetness, it balances out the savory elements.
• Fresh parsley: Bright and herbaceous, parsley brings a burst of green freshness that lifts the overall flavor profile.
• Garlic: A couple of cloves, minced finely, introduce a warm, aromatic backbone that complements the oregano.
• Dried oregano: This classic Mediterranean herb infuses the mixture with savory, earthy notes reminiscent of sun-warmed hillsides.
• Salt: Essential for seasoning, it enhances each ingredient’s natural taste and ensures a well-rounded flavor.
• Black pepper: A light grind adds a gentle heat and a hint of complexity.
• Olive oil: Used for cooking, it delivers a silky, fruit-forward richness and helps achieve a golden-brown crust on the patties.

HOW TO MAKE MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN PATTIES

Before diving into the step-by-step process, let’s talk about what makes these patties so foolproof. You’ll mix all your fresh ingredients in one bowl, shape the patties by hand, and cook them in fragrant olive oil until they turn perfectly golden. It’s straightforward, fun, and results in juicy, tender patties every time.

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, crumbled feta, finely chopped red onion, chopped parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.

2. Mix all the ingredients together gently until just incorporated. Take care not to over-mix, as that can make the patties dense instead of tender.

3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and use your hands to shape each portion into a patty, pressing slightly to flatten and ensure even cooking.

4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers and coats the pan.

5. Once the oil is hot, add the patties in a single layer without overcrowding the pan. Cook in batches if needed to maintain proper heat.

6. Cook each patty for about 4–5 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep golden-brown crust and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

7. Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes to lock in juices before serving.

SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN PATTIES

Enjoying these patties is all about pairing them with fresh, vibrant accompaniments that complement their Mediterranean soul. From crisp salads to creamy sauces, here are some ideas for plating them beautifully and enhancing every bite:

• Tzatziki dip: Serve the patties alongside a dollop of cool, tangy tzatziki. The creamy yogurt, cucumber, and dill mixture adds a refreshing contrast that balances the savory flavors.
• Greek salad: Arrange your patties on a bed of crisp lettuce, juicy cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, and kalamata olives. Drizzle with olive oil and a squeeze of lemon for a light but satisfying meal.
• Pita pockets: Stuff warm pita bread with a couple of patties, fresh spinach, thinly sliced red onion, and a smear of hummus. This handheld option is perfect for lunches or casual gatherings.
• Rice or couscous bowl: Build a colorful bowl with fluffy rice or couscous, topped with crumbled feta, roasted vegetables, and chopped parsley. Nestle a patty on top for a balanced, complete dinner.

HOW TO STORE MEDITERRANEAN CHICKEN PATTIES

When you’ve got a batch of these chicken patties ready to go, proper storage ensures you can enjoy them later without sacrificing taste or texture. Whether you’re stashing leftovers for tomorrow’s lunch or freezing for busy weeknights, here are the best practices to keep them fresh:

• Refrigeration: Once the patties have cooled to room temperature, place them in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps moisture locked in and prevents flavor loss.
• Freezing: Arrange uncooked or cooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm. Transfer to a zip-top freezer bag, removing excess air. Freeze for up to 2 months, then reheat gently in the oven or skillet.
• Individual portions: Wrap each patty in plastic wrap before placing in a container or bag. This method prevents sticking and lets you thaw exactly how many you need.
• Labeling: Always date your containers with a permanent marker. Proper labeling helps you rotate through your freezer stash efficiently and ensures you enjoy the patties at peak freshness.

CONCLUSION

Bringing the bright, sun-kissed flavors of the Mediterranean into your kitchen has never been simpler. With only a handful of pantry staples and barely 25 minutes of active cooking time, these Mediterranean Chicken Patties deliver big on taste and versatility. From the first bite of tangy feta to the final savory note of oregano, you’ll experience a harmony of flavors that feels both familiar and delightfully new. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner, assembling a casual lunch, or entertaining friends with a spread of appetizers, these patties rise to every occasion.

Feel free to print this article and save it for future reference—you’ll want to revisit these easy, healthy chicken patties again and again. And just below, you’ll find a FAQ section to answer any lingering questions you might have. If you give this recipe a try, please drop a comment or question below. Share your tweaks, your favorite serving ideas, or any hiccups you encountered. Your feedback helps create a cooking community where we can all learn and grow together. Enjoy the flavors, savor every bite, and happy cooking!

Print Recipe

Mediterranean Chicken Patties

Author: Annie Delgado Courses: Dinner

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 10 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 30 mins

Calories: 180

Description

These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are wonderfully seasoned with herbs, feta, and fresh veggies, offering a taste of the sun-soaked coast in every bite. Perfect for a quick meal or party platter!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 pound ground chicken

• ¹⁄₄ cup breadcrumbs

• ¹⁄₄ cup feta cheese, crumbled

• ¹⁄₄ cup red onion, finely chopped

• ¹⁄₄ cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• ¹⁄₂ teaspoon salt

• ¹⁄₄ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, red onion, parsley, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
2. Mix all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to over-mix to keep the patties tender.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each portion into a patty, flattening them slightly with your hands.
4. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
5. Once the oil is hot, add the patties to the skillet. Do not overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
6. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
7. Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.

Note

• Serve these patties with tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad for a full Mediterranean experience.
• These patties can be grilled instead of pan-fried for a smokier flavor.
• They can be made ahead and frozen for quick weekday meals.
• Substitute ground turkey for a leaner version of this dish.
• These patties make excellent sandwich fillings or can be served alongside a variety of dips and pita bread at parties.

Keywords: chicken patties, Mediterranean recipe, healthy dinner, easy chicken recipe, ground chicken, greek flavors