Mediterranean Chicken Patties

There is something undeniably magnetic about Mediterranean cooking — the way bold, sun-ripened ingredients come together with effortless grace to create dishes that feel both nourishing and celebratory. These Mediterranean Chicken Patties are a perfect expression of that spirit. Succulent ground chicken is folded together with crumbled feta, briny Kalamata olives, fragrant fresh herbs, and juicy tomatoes, delivering every sun-kissed flavor of the Mediterranean in a single golden patty. Whether you are pulling together a quick weeknight dinner or stocking the fridge for a week of wholesome meal prep, these patties rise to the occasion beautifully.

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The magic of these patties lies in the layering of textures and tastes. Creamy, salty feta softens into the ground chicken as it cooks, while chopped Kalamata olives and diced tomatoes add bursts of briny brightness throughout. A handful of freshly chopped parsley, cilantro, or mint lifts the whole mixture with herbal freshness, and a touch of minced garlic ties it all together. A brief chill in the refrigerator ensures the patties hold their shape in the skillet, emerging golden and crisp on the outside while staying wonderfully juicy within. This is weeknight cooking at its most satisfying — simple, bold, and deeply delicious.

Ingredients

• For the Patties:
• 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
• 1/2 cup (75 g) crumbled feta cheese (or substitute goat cheese)
• 1/4 cup (10 g) fresh parsley, cilantro, or mint, chopped
• 1/2 cup (80 g) diced tomatoes (or sun-dried tomatoes, chopped)
• 1/4 cup (35 g) Kalamata or green olives, chopped
• 1 medium red onion, finely diced (or yellow/white onion)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup (30 g) breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• 1 large egg (or 1 tbsp ground flaxseed + 3 tbsp water, mixed, for vegan option)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• For Serving (Optional Toppings):
• 1/4 cup extra feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 cup sliced cucumbers
• 1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/4 cup fresh herbs (parsley or dill), chopped

Grind fresh meat, make sausages, and shred vegetables quickly for homemade burgers, meatballs, and everyday recipes.

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Instructions

Step 1 — Build the base

In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, crumbled feta, chopped herbs, minced garlic, and beaten egg. Mix gently until just combined.

Step 2 — Add the mix-ins

Fold in diced tomatoes, chopped olives, diced onion, and breadcrumbs. Season generously with salt and pepper.

Step 3 — Shape the patties

Divide mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape into patties about 3/4 inch (2 cm) thick.

Step 4 — Chill

Place patties on a plate or tray and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them firm up.

Step 5 — Heat the skillet

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.

Step 6 — Cook the patties

Add chilled patties to the skillet. Cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).

Step 7 — Rest

Remove from skillet and let rest for 2 minutes.

Step 8 — Serve

Serve warm, garnished with extra feta, cucumbers, tomatoes, and fresh herbs as desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Damit die Patties beim Braten ihre Form behalten, ist das Kühlen im Kühlschrank für mindestens 15 Minuten entscheidend. Vermische die Zutaten nur so lange, bis sie gerade verbunden sind — zu starkes Rühren macht das Hackfleisch zäh. Achte darauf, dass das Öl in der Pfanne heiß genug ist, bevor du die Patties hinzufügst, damit sich sofort eine goldene Kruste bildet. Ein Fleischthermometer ist empfehlenswert, um sicherzustellen, dass die Innentemperatur 74°C (165°F) erreicht. Die Patties können bis zu 24 Stunden vor dem Braten geformt und im Kühlschrank aufbewahrt werden.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Tausche den Feta gegen Ziegenkäse aus, um eine würzigere Note zu erhalten. Für extra Knusprigkeit kannst du die Patties vor dem Braten leicht in zusätzlichen Semmelbröseln wälzen. Eine glutenfreie Version gelingt problemlos mit glutenfreien Semmelbröseln. Wer eine vegane Bindung bevorzugt, ersetzt das Ei durch 1 EL gemahlene Leinsamen, gemischt mit 3 EL Wasser. Die frischen Kräuter lassen sich je nach Vorliebe zwischen Petersilie, Koriander und Minze variieren, und anstelle von frischen Tomaten eignen sich getrocknete Tomaten für ein intensiveres, süßlich-herbes Aroma.

Serviervorschläge

Diese Mediterranean Chicken Patties entfalten ihr volles Potenzial, wenn sie warm serviert werden. Lege sie auf ein knackiges Bett aus frischem Salat und bestreue sie mit extra Feta-Käse, gehackten Tomaten, Gurkenscheiben und frischen Kräutern wie Petersilie oder Dill. Für ein herzhafteres Gericht serviere die Patties in Pitabrot mit einem großzügigen Löffel Tzatziki. Sie passen ebenso gut als Hauptgang zu einem mediterranen Teller mit Hummus, gegrilltem Gemüse und Oliven. Zum Meal Prep lassen sie sich im Kühlschrank bis zu 3 Tage aufbewahren und nach Bedarf wieder aufwärmen.

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Mediterranean Chicken Patties prove that a truly satisfying meal does not require hours in the kitchen. In just over 40 minutes — including a quick rest in the fridge — you can bring the warmth and brightness of Mediterranean cuisine to your table. With their golden crust, herbaceous interior, and the irresistible combination of feta and olives, these patties are destined to become a regular in your weeknight rotation. Serve them simply with sliced cucumbers and a scatter of fresh herbs, or dress them up with pita and tzatziki for a feast that feels far more elaborate than the effort involved. Either way, every bite is a little taste of the sun-drenched Mediterranean coast.

Air fry, roast, reheat, and dehydrate meals quickly for crispy snacks and easy weeknight dinners.

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Recipe FAQs

→ Can I substitute feta cheese?

Yes, goat cheese works well as a tangier alternative and maintains the creamy texture.

→ Is it possible to make these patties gluten-free?

Absolutely. Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or skip them for a lighter texture.

→ How can I make a vegan version?

Replace the egg with a flaxseed and water mixture and use plant-based cheese alternatives.

→ What’s the best way to cook these patties?

Pan-frying in olive oil over medium-high heat until golden brown ensures a crispy exterior and juicy interior.

→ Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?

Yes, they can be formed and refrigerated up to 24 hours before cooking to save time later.