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Juicy Mediterranean chicken patties with herbs, garlic, and lemon served with yogurt sauce.

Mediterranean Chicken Patties Recipe – Juicy & Healthy

Make juicy Mediterranean Chicken Patties with ground chicken, herbs, garlic, and lemon. A healthy, flavorful recipe perfect for dinner, meal prep, or pita sandwiches.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Dinner, Lunch, Main Course
Cuisine Greek-Inspired, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern-Inspired
Servings 4 (about 8 small patties)
Calories 280 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Skillet or frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Baking sheet (optional for oven method)

Ingredients
  

For the Chicken Patties

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely grated
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh dill (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs or panko
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (plus more for cooking)

Optional Add-Ins

  • 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped spinach
  • 2 tablespoons chopped green onions

For Serving

  • Tzatziki sauce
  • Warm pita bread
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Cucumbers
  • Lettuce or mixed greens

Instructions
 

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic, grated onion, parsley, dill, lemon zest, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Mix gently until just combined.
    Tip: Avoid overmixing the mixture to keep the patties tender.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

  • Divide the mixture into equal portions and form into patties about 2–3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick. Place the shaped patties on a plate or tray.

Step 3: Cook the Patties (Pan-Fry Method)

  • Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in a single layer and cook for 4–5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

Alternative Cooking Methods

  • Oven Method
    Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake for 15–18 minutes, until fully cooked.
  • Air Fryer Method
    Preheat air fryer to 375°F (190°C) and cook patties for 10–12 minutes, flipping halfway through.

Step 4: Check for Doneness

  • Ensure the patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

  • Serve warm with tzatziki sauce, pita bread, fresh vegetables, or over rice or salad bowls.

Notes

  • Use slightly fatty ground chicken for juicier patties.
  • Chill the patties for 10–15 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
  • Fresh herbs provide the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used if necessary.
  • Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice after cooking to brighten the flavor.
  • For a low-carb option, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour.
  • These patties are excellent for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for 2 months.
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