If you’re on the hunt for a flavorful dish that beautifully balances fresh herbs, tangy cheese, and zesty lemon, then look no further than this Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe. It’s one of those delightful meals that feel like a Mediterranean vacation in every bite, boasting perfectly tender chicken patties enriched with creamy feta and an aromatic blend of parsley and dill. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend gathering, these patties deliver juicy, herby goodness with a citrusy punch that’s sure to brighten your table and your mood.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential in creating patties that are bursting with flavor, texture, and vibrant color. Each element plays a unique role—from the creamy tang of feta adding richness, to the lemon zest providing a lively zing that keeps the dish balanced and refreshing.
- 500 g ground chicken: The lean and tender base that soaks up all the wonderful flavors.
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds a creamy, distinctive saltiness that complements the chicken nicely.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and gives them a lovely structure without heaviness.
- 1 small onion, finely grated: Releases moisture and a subtle sweetness that blends effortlessly.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Boosts every bite with its fragrant depth and warmth.
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped: Brightens the patties with its fresh, earthy notes.
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped: Adds a distinct Mediterranean flair that’s light and slightly tangy.
- Zest of 1 lemon: Infuses the patties with invigorating citrus brightness.
- 1 egg, lightly beaten: The all-important binder that keeps everything together seamlessly.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for cooking: Used for golden, crisp searing to lock in juiciness.
- Optional: Lemon wedges, fresh herbs, Greek yogurt or tzatziki: Perfect accompaniments for serving to enhance freshness and creaminess.
How to Make Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by gathering your ground chicken, crumbled feta, breadcrumbs, grated onion, minced garlic, chopped parsley and dill, lemon zest, egg, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. The key here is to gently combine these ingredients so everything evenly distributes without overworking the mixture, which keeps the patties tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mixture comes together, divide it evenly and shape into 8 uniform patties. This ensures they cook evenly and each bite will be consistently flavorful. You want them thick enough to remain juicy but slim enough to cook through perfectly.
Step 3: Heat the Olive Oil
Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will provide a nice golden crust that locks moisture inside while adding rich flavor to the exterior. Olive oil’s fruity notes also complement the Mediterranean herbs beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Place the patties in the skillet, giving them enough space to brown properly. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop that gorgeous golden color and are cooked through. The aroma starting to fill your kitchen at this stage is simply irresistible.
Step 5: Serve with Flair
Transfer your golden patties to a serving plate. Garnish generously with lemon wedges and fresh herbs to enhance the fresh flavors. For an extra touch, serve with Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side for luscious creaminess that balances the zest and herbs.
How to Serve Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe
Garnishes
Brighten this dish by adding fresh lemon wedges and a handful of chopped parsley or dill on top. The citrus not only looks appealing but gives each bite a delightful hint of tang that elevates the patties even more.
Side Dishes
These chicken patties pair beautifully with Mediterranean classics such as a crisp Greek salad, roasted vegetables, or even a simple quinoa pilaf seasoned with lemon and herbs. The cool creaminess of tzatziki or Greek yogurt serves as the perfect dip to contrast the patties’ warmth.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these patties as sliders on toasted pita bread with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a drizzle of tzatziki. You can also crumble them over a fresh salad for a protein-packed meal or wrap them in lettuce leaves with an herby yogurt sauce for a light, low-carb option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties left over, simply place them in an airtight container and refrigerate. They’ll stay delicious for up to 3 days, making them great for quick lunches or dinners ahead of time.
Freezing
To freeze, arrange uncooked patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper. They can be frozen for up to 2 months and cooked straight from frozen.
Reheating
Gently reheat cooked patties in a skillet over low heat or warm them in the oven to keep their golden crust intact. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain their juicy, herby texture and prevent drying out.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for these patties?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully in this recipe and will provide a similar lean, tender texture while still carrying all the delicious flavors of the herbs and lemon zest.
What can I substitute for feta cheese if I’m lactose intolerant?
You can opt for a dairy-free cheese alternative with a similar crumbly texture or simply omit the feta; adding extra herbs and lemon zest will keep the patties flavorful without it.
Is it possible to bake these chicken patties instead of frying?
Yes, baking is an excellent alternative. Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F), place patties on a lined baking sheet, and cook for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even browning.
How do I make sure the patties don’t fall apart?
Using the right ratio of breadcrumbs and egg is key as they act as binders. Be gentle when mixing and shaping, and avoid overhandling the meat to keep the patties intact and tender.
Can I add other herbs or spices to customize the flavor?
Definitely! While parsley and dill offer a classic Mediterranean profile, feel free to experiment with mint, oregano, or even a pinch of cumin to make the recipe your own.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly comforting and exciting about the Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties – Juicy, Herby & Zesty Recipe. It offers a fantastic adventure in flavors that’s easy enough to whip up any night but special enough to impress. Once you try these patties, they’ll likely become a go-to favorite, guaranteed to bring smiles and happy appetites to your kitchen.
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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 Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Golden Mediterranean Chicken Patties are juicy, herby, and zesty, perfectly combining ground chicken with fragrant herbs, tangy feta cheese, and lemon zest. Pan-fried to a golden brown, they make a delightful appetizer or main dish served with a side of Greek yogurt or tzatziki for a refreshing finish.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 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
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh herbs
- Greek yogurt or tzatziki
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, crumbled feta cheese, breadcrumbs, finely grated onion, minced garlic, chopped fresh parsley and dill, lemon zest, lightly beaten egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 8 evenly sized patties to ensure even cooking and consistent texture.
- Heat Olive Oil: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking, ready for frying.
- Cook Patties: Place the patties in the hot skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Cook until the patties are golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 74°C (165°F) for safe consumption.
- Serve and Garnish: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate. Garnish with lemon wedges and fresh herbs. Serve with Greek yogurt or tzatziki on the side for added creaminess and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; dried herbs will not provide the same brightness.
- Ensure patties are of uniform size to cook evenly.
- Do not overmix the chicken mixture to keep patties tender.
- Optional: Substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if desired.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 2 days and reheated gently in a skillet.
