Mediterranean Chicken Patties
If you’re searching for a recipe that captures the heart of the Mediterranean while delivering a hit of flavor, then the Mediterranean Chicken Patties are just what you need. Picture this: golden-brown patties, infused with the fragrant aroma of garlic, the fresh burst of parsley, and the salty richness of feta cheese that make every bite an exquisite journey.
Perfectly juicy and undeniably delicious, these chicken patties are not only a delightful meal but also a healthy choice. They’re quick to whip up, making them an ideal weeknight dinner. The satisfaction they bring will have your family asking for seconds while also igniting a sense of nostalgia that makes dining an event. Whether you are feeding picky eaters or hosting a simple gathering, these patties save the day.
Have You Ever Been Tempted by the Allure of Flavorful Bites?
Imagine coming home from a busy day, the aroma of something delightful wafting through your kitchen as you prepare a meal that will please everyone. These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are not just savory morsels; they are a canvas for your culinary creativity. Will you drizzle them with creamy tahini sauce or serve them alongside a fresh garden salad bursting with color? The possibilities are endless, and every bite sings with flavor, making it hard to resist going back for more.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Mediterranean Chicken Patties recipe is designed for those who cherish simplicity combined with robust flavors. Here’s why it’s bound to become a favorite:
- Quick and Easy Prep: From start to finish, you’ll be done in under 30 minutes, making it a savior for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with lean protein and fresh herbs, every bite is guilt-free.
- Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, kids love them, and they can be made in large batches.
- Minimal Ingredients: With just a few staples, you can create something spectacular right in your kitchen.
Ingredients
Let’s dive into the heart of this recipe! Gather the following ingredients to bring your Mediterranean Chicken Patties to life:
1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts: Finely chopped to ensure the patties are juicy and flavorful.
3 cloves fresh garlic, minced: This will infuse the patties with aromatic goodness.
1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped: Adding a fresh, vibrant green burst that elevates the dish.
1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Salty and creamy, it brings richness to each patty.
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: For that delightful crunch on the outside, keeping each bite moist and delicious inside.
Zest of 1 lemon: This adds a zesty brightness to the flavor profile.
2 tbsp olive oil for cooking: Essential for achieving that golden-brown crust.
1/4 cup tahini: The creamy base for our irresistible sauce.
2 tbsp lemon juice: To balance the dish with tartness.
Timing
Feeling rushed? These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for those days when you want fast and indulgent flavor without sacrificing quality. In less than 30 minutes, you can have a plateful of golden-brown delights ready to serve.
On the other hand, if you’re in the mood for slow and luxurious culinary experiences, take your time savoring the cooking process, allowing the aromas to fill your home and draw in everyone for an early dinner.
Step-by-Step
Finely chop the chicken: Use a food processor to get the chicken minced perfectly, being careful not to turn it into mush. You want texture!
Mix the ingredients: In a large bowl, blend the minced chicken with garlic, parsley, feta cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and lemon zest. The mixture should come together beautifully, exuding delightful Mediterranean aromas.
Form the patties: Wet your hands to prevent sticking and delicately form small patties, about 10 in total. Each one should be plump and ready for cooking.
Cook the patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and place the patties in the pan. Sizzle them for about 5 minutes on each side until they get golden brown and are cooked through. They will smell heavenly!
Whisk the sauce: In a small bowl, combine tahini and lemon juice, adding water progressively until you reach your desired drizzled consistency. This creamy sauce is a dream come true!
Serve and garnish: Plate the patties, casually drizzle them with tahini sauce, and sprinkle with fresh parsley for an elegant touch that adds color and flavor.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Mediterranean Chicken Patties not only explodes with flavor but is also relatively low in calories, making it a guilt-free way to indulge. One patty generally contains around 200 calories, allowing for a little indulgence without straying too far from your healthy eating goals.
Healthier Alternatives
Looking to reinvent these Mediterranean Chicken Patties? Consider these healthier alternatives:
- Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.
- Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or make your own from gluten-free bread to cater to dietary needs.
- Swap feta cheese for a dairy-free alternative to make it vegan-friendly.
Serving Suggestions
The versatility of these patties is unmatched! Serve them on a fluffy pita with fresh veggies for a quick lunch or arrange them on a platter for a festive gathering. With a side of roasted veggies or creamy tzatziki, they become a centerpiece of flavors.
And yes, if you want to indulge, serving them with a scoop of tangy Greek yogurt or even some artisan hummus can elevate the experience!
Common Mistakes
Even the best recipes can fall short if we’re not careful. Here are common mistakes to avoid:
Overbaking: Keep an eye on the cooking time to ensure they don’t dry out. They should be golden and juicy.
Texture issues: Make sure to finely chop and not over-process the chicken, or you’ll end up with a mushy texture.
Messy cooking: Wet your hands before handling the chicken mixture to keep from making a sticky mess.
Storing Tips
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are perfect for meal prep. Here’s how to store them:
Freezing portions: Prepare a big batch and freeze individual portions. Lay them flat in a storage bag to save space.
Reheating instructions: To reheat, simply place the patties in a skillet heated over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through.
Tempt Yourself to Bake It ASAP
Now that you’re armed with this mouthwatering Mediterranean Chicken Patties recipe, it’s time to roll up your sleeves and create something magic. Aromatic, flavorful, and thoroughly satisfying, your kitchen is on the brink of a flavor sensation. Treat yourself and your loved ones to these gems today!
FAQs
Can I use cooked chicken for this recipe?
Yes, shredded cooked chicken can be substituted, although the texture will vary slightly.Are there vegetarian options?
Absolutely! You can use chickpeas or lentils in place of chicken for a delicious vegetarian version.What can I serve with these patties?
They pair wonderfully with salads, roasted veggies, or in a wrap with your favorite sauces.How do I get my patties to hold their shape?
Always make sure to wet your hands when forming the patties and don’t skip the breadcrumbs to bind the mixture.Can I bake these instead of frying?
Of course! Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are destined to become a staple in your kitchen adventures, promising indulgence and satisfaction with every single delicious bite!
Print
Mediterranean Chicken Patties
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Paleo
Description
Delicious chicken patties infused with garlic, parsley, and feta cheese, delivering a taste of the Mediterranean in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts, finely chopped
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp olive oil for cooking
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Instructions
- Finely chop the chicken using a food processor, being careful not to over-process.
- In a large bowl, blend the minced chicken with garlic, parsley, feta cheese, panko breadcrumbs, and lemon zest.
- Wet your hands to form small patties, about 10 in total.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- In a small bowl, whisk together tahini and lemon juice, adding water until desired consistency is reached.
- Serve the patties drizzled with tahini sauce and garnish with fresh parsley.
Notes
These patties can be stored in the freezer and reheated easily. Consider using ground turkey for a leaner option or gluten-free breadcrumbs as needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 patty
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 10g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
