Hello, food enthusiasts! I’m Meriem, your passionate chef and food blogger, and I’m thrilled to bring you a recipe that’s bursting with Mediterranean flair: Juicy Mediterranean Chicken Patties with Feta and Herbs. These tender, flavorful patties combine lean ground chicken with tangy feta, aromatic herbs, and a hint of lemon, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Ready in just 20 minutes, they’re ideal for quick weeknight dinners, meal prep, or even as a crowd-pleasing appetizer. With their vibrant flavors and simple preparation, these patties are sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s get mixing and cooking!
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Vibrant Mediterranean Flavors: Feta, herbs, and lemon create a fresh, zesty taste.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in 20 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthy and Lean: High in protein, low in carbs, and packed with flavor.
- Versatile: Serve as a main dish, in wraps, or as sliders for parties.
- Customizable: Add a spicy kick or your favorite herbs to make it your own.
What you will need ?
Here’s everything you need to create these delicious chicken patties. I’ve included substitutions and their uses to make this recipe adaptable to your pantry and dietary preferences.
- 1 lb ground chicken
Purpose: Lean protein base for juicy, flavorful patties.
Substitution: Use ground turkey, beef, or a plant-based ground meat for vegetarian (adjust cooking time as needed). - 2 cloves garlic, minced
Purpose: Adds savory, aromatic depth.
Substitution: Use ½ tsp garlic powder or 1 tsp garlic paste for convenience. - ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
Purpose: Provides a mild, sweet crunch.
Substitution: Use yellow onion, shallots, or 1 tsp onion powder for a smoother texture. - ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese
Purpose: Adds tangy, salty richness to the patties.
Substitution: Use goat cheese, queso fresco, or vegan feta for dairy-free. Omit for a lighter option. - ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley
Purpose: Brings freshness and a classic Mediterranean flavor.
Substitution: Use 2 tsp dried parsley, fresh basil, or dill for a different herbaceous note. - ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Purpose: Adds a bright, slightly citrusy flavor.
Substitution: Use more parsley, fresh mint, or omit if cilantro isn’t preferred. - 1 tsp salt
Purpose: Enhances all flavors in the patties.
Substitution: Use sea salt or reduce to ¾ tsp for low-sodium diets. - ½ tsp ground black pepper
Purpose: Adds a mild kick to the seasoning.
Substitution: Use white pepper or a pinch of cayenne for extra heat. - 1 tbsp lemon juice
Purpose: Infuses the patties with bright, tangy flavor.
Substitution: Use lime juice, white vinegar, or ½ tsp lemon extract. - 1 tbsp olive oil (for frying)
Purpose: Browns the patties and adds richness.
Substitution: Use avocado oil, vegetable oil, or bake instead of frying (see tips below). - ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Purpose: Adds a subtle spicy kick.
Substitution: Use a pinch of cayenne, sriracha, or omit for a milder flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl (for patty mixture)
- Large skillet (for frying patties)
- Spatula or tongs (for flipping patties)
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Optional: Cookie scoop or spoon (for portioning patties)
- Optional: Meat thermometer (to check doneness)
Step-By-Step Guiding
Follow these detailed steps to create perfectly juicy Mediterranean chicken patties. I’ve added tips and extra steps to ensure success for all cooks.
- Prepare the Patty Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb ground chicken, 2 cloves minced garlic, ¼ cup finely chopped red onion, ⅓ cup crumbled feta cheese, ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley, ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro, 1 tsp salt, ½ tsp ground black pepper, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (if using).
- Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the patties tender.
- Tip: Finely chop the onion and herbs to ensure even distribution. If the mixture is too wet, add 1–2 tbsp breadcrumbs; if too dry, add 1 tsp water or olive oil.
- Shape the Patties
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape into small patties (about 2.5–3 inches in diameter) using your hands. Flatten slightly for even cooking.
- Place the patties on a plate and chill for 10 minutes if time allows to help them hold their shape during cooking.
- Tip: Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking. Make smaller patties for sliders or larger ones for burgers, adjusting cooking time accordingly.
- Heat the Skillet
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Ensure the skillet is hot but not smoking to achieve a nice golden crust.
- Tip: Use a non-stick or cast-iron skillet for best results. Add more oil between batches if needed to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Patties
- Add the patties to the skillet in a single layer, working in batches if necessary to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Use a spatula or tongs to flip the patties gently, ensuring the feta doesn’t stick to the pan.
- Transfer cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
- Tip: For a healthier option, bake patties at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
- Serve the Patties
- Serve the patties warm, topped with additional chopped parsley, crumbled feta, or a fresh chopped tomato-onion salad for extra Mediterranean flair.
- Pair with pita bread, a side of tzatziki, or a green salad for a complete meal.
- Tip: For a fun presentation, stack patties on a platter with a small bowl of tzatziki sauce or yogurt dip for dipping. Serve with lemon wedges for squeezing.
Topping Suggestions
Elevate your chicken patties with these delicious additions:
- Tzatziki Sauce: A cool, creamy complement to the warm patties.
- Chopped Olives: Kalamata or green for a briny kick.
- Fresh Mint: A refreshing herbaceous garnish.
- Harissa: A drizzle for a spicy, smoky twist.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy texture and rich flavor.
- Pickled Red Onions: Tangy and colorful contrast.
How to Store & Reheat
- Storage:
- Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Tip: Layer with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Store any toppings or salads separately to maintain freshness.
- Freezing:
- Freeze cooked or uncooked patties in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Place parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking.
- Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking or reheating.
- Tip: Freeze uncooked patties for fresher results, cooking directly from thawed.
- Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat for 1–2 minutes, covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture.
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 8–10 minutes on a baking sheet, covered with foil.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of oil for 5–6 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Tip: Refresh with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs before serving.
What to Serve with Mediterranean Chicken Patties
Pair this dish with these sides or beverages for a complete Mediterranean meal:
- Pita Wraps: Stuff patties with lettuce, tomato, and tzatziki for a handheld meal.
- Greek Salad: Cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta with a lemon-oregano dressing.
- Roasted Veggies: Zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers with olive oil and herbs.
- Herbal Iced Tea: Mint or lemon for a refreshing option.
Ingredient Substitutions Recap
For quick reference, here’s how substitutions affect the recipe:
- Chicken → Turkey: Similar lean protein, slightly different flavor.
- Feta → Goat Cheese: Creamier, tangier alternative.
- Cilantro → Mint: Fresher, cooling flavor profile.
- Lemon Juice → Lime Juice: Comparable tang, slightly tropical.
- Olive Oil → Avocado Oil: Neutral flavor for frying.
FAQs
How do I keep the chicken patties from falling apart?
Mix gently to avoid overworking the mixture, and ensure it’s not too wet (add 1–2 tbsp breadcrumbs if needed). Chilling the shaped patties for 10 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape.
Can I make the chicken patties ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, cook the patties and store in the fridge for up to 4 days, reheating when ready to serve.
How can I make vegetarian patties?
Swap ground chicken for a plant-based ground meat, crumbled tofu (pressed and drained), or mashed chickpeas. Use vegan feta or omit the cheese, and ensure all other ingredients are vegetarian-friendly.
Can I bake patties instead of frying them?
Yes! Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This reduces oil and simplifies cleanup.
Juicy Mediterranean Chicken Patties with Feta and Herbs: A Flavorful Delight
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil for frying
- Optional: 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, garlic, red onion, feta, parsley, cilantro, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape the mixture into 8 small patties using your hands.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F / 74°C).
- Serve warm, topped with additional herbs, crumbled feta, or a fresh chopped tomato-onion salad if desired.
These Juicy Mediterranean Chicken Patties with Feta and Herbs are a quick, healthy, and flavorful way to bring the tastes of the Mediterranean to your table. The tender, herb-packed patties with creamy feta and a hint of lemon are perfect for a speedy dinner, a party appetizer, or a meal-prep staple. With their versatility and vibrant flavors, they’re sure to impress anyone who tries them. Experiment with toppings, serve with your favorite sides, and let me know how they turn out in the comments below. Happy cooking, and enjoy this Mediterranean delight!
