If you’re craving a dish that beautifully balances vibrant herbs, zesty lemon, and juicy chicken, then you have to try this Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm Mediterranean hug on a plate, with each bite bursting with fresh flavors and a delightful texture that’s both hearty and light. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or simply treating yourself, these patties bring an irresistible combination of golden crust, creamy feta, and bright herbaceous notes that will keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simplicity and freshness. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, creating layers of flavor that are colorful, aromatic, and satisfying. From the creamy tang of feta to the zing of lemon zest, these essentials come together in perfect harmony.
- 500 g ground chicken: The lean base providing a tender and juicy texture for your patties.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy saltiness that blends beautifully with chicken.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties together while keeping them light and golden.
- 1 small onion, finely grated: Infuses subtle sweetness and moisture to the mix.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings savory depth and classic Mediterranean warmth.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Introduces a vibrant, fresh herbal note that brightens the dish.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Offers a unique aromatic flavor that’s quintessentially Mediterranean.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Lifts the patties with a fresh, citrusy zing that cuts through the richness.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: Acts as a natural binder holding everything together effortlessly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the fresh flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for cooking: Provides a fragrant, healthy fat for a golden, crisp crust.
- Optional: Lemon wedges, fresh herbs, Greek yogurt or tzatziki: Perfect accompaniments for serving and adding an extra layer of indulgence.
How to Make Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing your ground chicken, crumbled feta, breadcrumbs, finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, dill, lemon zest, beaten egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper into a large bowl. This is where the magic begins. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything until just combined—overmixing can make the patties tough, so be gentle but thorough.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mixture feels evenly blended, divide it into eight portions. Shape each portion into a round, flat patty about the size of your palm. This shape helps them cook evenly and develop that beautiful golden crust we’re aiming for in this Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe.
Step 3: Heat the Olive Oil
Next, warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Using olive oil not only prevents sticking but adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall flavor and ensures a gorgeous color once your patties hit the pan.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Place the patties carefully into the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until they turn a lovely golden brown and are cooked through. You’ll know they’re ready when the patties have a crisp exterior but remain juicy inside—a signature characteristic of this Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe.
Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate. Garnish with fresh herbs and zesty lemon wedges, and add dollops of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a cool, creamy contrast. This final step not only adds to the visual appeal but elevates the flavor profile so beautifully.
How to Serve Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like fresh parsley, dill, or a squeeze of lemon juice elevate the patties visually and flavor-wise. The brightness of lemon wedges perfectly complements the juicy, herby notes while adding a refreshing pop.
Side Dishes
These patties pair wonderfully with Mediterranean-inspired sides such as a crisp Greek salad, fluffy couscous, or roasted vegetables. A creamy tzatziki sauce or silky hummus can also invite more layers of flavor and texture to your meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the patties inside warm pita bread with fresh tomato, cucumber slices, and a drizzle of tzatziki for a casual, handheld experience. Alternatively, stack them over a bed of mixed greens and grains for a plated dinner that feels light yet satisfying.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra patties (though they rarely last long), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for quick lunches or snacks.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by laying them on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. Frozen patties will keep well for up to 2 months, letting you enjoy this Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe anytime you wish.
Reheating
To reheat cooked patties, warm them in a pan over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to revive their golden crust and juicy interior. Avoid microwaving if you want to maintain maximum flavor and texture.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! You can finely chop or pulse chicken breast in a food processor to mimic ground chicken texture, but fresh ground chicken keeps the patties juicy and tender.
What can I substitute if I don’t have feta cheese?
Go for halloumi or goat cheese for similar salty, creamy qualities. Just crumble or dice so it distributes evenly in the mix.
Are these patties spicy?
Not at all! This Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe focuses on fresh herbs and citrus to build flavor without heat, but you can add a pinch of chili flakes if you like some kick.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
You sure can! Bake them at 190°C (375°F) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, for a healthier but still delicious alternative.
How long do these patties take to make?
From prep to plate, expect about 27 minutes total—15 minutes for prepping the ingredients and shaping the patties, and around 12 minutes cooking time.
Final Thoughts
Nothing beats the joy of sinking your teeth into these Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe. It’s a dish that brings sunshine, comfort, and outstanding flavor to your table with minimal fuss. I promise once you try it, the vibrant herbs, creamy feta, and zesty lemon will have you making them again and again. So go ahead, treat yourself and your loved ones to this Mediterranean delight—you’re going to love every bite!
Print
Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (8 patties)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties are juicy, herby, and zesty, featuring ground chicken mixed with crumbled feta, fresh herbs, and lemon zest. These flavorful patties are pan-fried to a perfect golden brown, making them an ideal quick and satisfying meal served with Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500 g ground chicken
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Cooking
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for cooking
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh herbs
- Greek yogurt or tzatziki
Instructions
- Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped dill, lemon zest, beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are just incorporated.
- Form patties: Divide the mixture and shape into 8 evenly sized patties, making sure they hold together well but are not packed too tightly to keep them juicy.
- Heat skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add olive oil, allowing it to warm evenly for a minute.
- Cook patties: Place the patties in the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the cooked patties to a serving plate. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Serve warm with Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side for added creaminess and zest.
Notes
- For crispier patties, you can chill them for 15 minutes before cooking.
- Make sure not to overmix the chicken and other ingredients to avoid dense patties.
- Use fresh herbs for optimal flavor, but dried herbs can be substituted if necessary—use half the amount.
- These patties can also be baked in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-18 minutes as an alternative cooking method.
- Adjust seasoning at the end if needed, as feta cheese adds a salty flavor.
