These Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties are juicy and packed with flavor from herbs and spices. Pair them with a cool, creamy tzatziki sauce, and you’ve got a tasty meal!
I love how easy it is to whip these up for dinner! They’re great on their own or stuffed in pita bread with fresh veggies. Perfect for any night of the week! 🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This lean meat helps keep the patties moist and tender. If you’re looking for a different option, feel free to use ground turkey or lean ground beef. Just keep in mind that the flavors will slightly change with different meats.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill bring a burst of flavor and brightness. If you can’t find dill, you might substitute it with mint for a different herbal note. Always use fresh herbs when possible, as they make a big difference compared to dried.
Greek Yogurt: For the tzatziki, Greek yogurt is a must for that creamy texture. You can swap it with regular plain yogurt, but it will be a bit runnier. To make it richer, you could use sour cream instead.
Breadcrumbs: These help hold the patties together. If you’re gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as alternatives. I’ve even used ground almonds for a unique twist!
Kalamata Olives: A staple in Mediterranean cuisine, they add a nice salty flavor to the salad. If you’re not a fan of olives, you can simply leave them out or replace them with capers for a similar briny taste.
How Do You Form Perfectly Shaped Patties?
Forming chicken patties can be tricky if you’re not careful. Here are some easy steps to help you create nicely shaped patties that cook evenly:
- Use your hands to gently mix the meat and other ingredients without overworking it; this keeps them tender.
- Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking while forming patties.
- Shape them into 1/2 inch thick patties—this thickness helps them cook evenly.
- Try to make them about the same size, so they all cook at the same rate.
These tips will ensure you have delicious, uniform patties that are packed with flavor! Happy cooking!
How to Make Mediterranean Inspired Chicken Patties with Tzatziki
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling/frying)
For the Tzatziki:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, finely grated and 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 Side Salad:
- 1/2 cup Kalamata olives
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1 tsp red wine vinegar or lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh green lettuce leaves (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook, totaling around 30-35 minutes. You’ll have delicious chicken patties ready in no time, alongside a fresh tzatziki and salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken Patties:
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl. Combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, fresh parsley, dill, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Next, add in the lightly beaten egg and breadcrumbs. Mix everything together well until it’s fully combined. It’s okay if it feels a bit sticky—that’s just how it should be!
2. Forming the Patties:
Once the mixture is ready, wet your hands slightly to help prevent sticking. Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 evenly-sized patties, about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure they are similar in size so they cook evenly.
3. Cooking the Patties:
Heat the tablespoon of olive oil in a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes or until they are cooked through and have nice grill marks. To ensure they’re done, check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove them from the heat, and keep them warm.
4. Making the Tzatziki Sauce:
In a separate bowl, mix together the Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, minced garlic, chopped dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir it all well until blended. For the best flavor, refrigerate the tzatziki until you’re ready to eat.
5. Preparing the Side Salad:
In a small bowl, combine the Kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, red wine vinegar or lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss all the ingredients gently until they are well combined. This refreshing salad is a perfect side to balance out the richer flavors of the patties.
6. Plating the Dish:
Now it’s time to plate! Arrange some fresh green lettuce leaves on a serving plate. On top of the lettuce, place the warm chicken patties. For a lovely touch, garnish each patty with a sprig of fresh dill.
7. Serving Suggestions:
Serve your delicious chicken patties alongside a small bowl of tzatziki sauce for dipping, and don’t forget the Mediterranean salad on the side for extra crunch and flavor!
Enjoy this fresh, flavorful Mediterranean-inspired meal! It’s great for a family dinner or even for meal prep during the week!
Can I Use Other Types of Ground Meat for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean ground beef can be good substitutes for ground chicken. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
Can I Make the Tzatziki in Advance?
Yes, you can! Tzatziki actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge as the flavors meld together. It can be made up to a day in advance and stored in an airtight container.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Patties?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
What Should I Serve with the Patties Besides Tzatziki?
The patties pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with roasted vegetables, pita bread, or over a bed of quinoa or couscous for a filling meal.
