If you are looking for a burger experience that is juicy, bursting with flavor, and a little unexpected, then this Best Ever Chicken Burger with Mediterranean-Spiced Chicken Patties Recipe is going to be your new best friend in the kitchen. The magic truly lies in those chicken patties, which are perfectly seasoned with aromatic Mediterranean herbs and spices, then coated for an irresistibly crispy crust. Whether you serve it on a soft bun or wrap it in lettuce for a lighter option, this chicken burger delivers that crave-worthy satisfaction every time you take a bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of this ingredient list — each item plays a crucial role in creating the perfect chicken burger. From the ground chicken that provides a tender base to the Italian seasoning and Urfa Biber that bring layers of warmth and complexity, every ingredient contributes mouthwatering flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 pound ground chicken: Use fresh, high-quality ground chicken for juicy patties that bind well with other ingredients.
- 1/2 cup dried bread crumbs: Adds structure to the patties and contributes a delightful crispiness to the outside; gluten-free options work beautifully too.
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt: This keeps the patties moist and infuses a subtle tanginess that’s simply delightful.
- 1 small yellow onion, grated: Adds sweetness and moisture inside the patties while blending seamlessly with the spices.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: This classic blend brings aromatic herbs like oregano and basil into the mix for that Mediterranean charm.
- 1/2 teaspoon Urfa Biber: A gently smoky and mildly spicy chili powder that elevates the patty with complexity; red pepper flakes make a great substitute.
- Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings for enhancing all the flavors naturally.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Used for cooking and adding richness to the patties.
- 4 burger buns or lettuce wraps: Choose your favorite base for layering the patties and toppings.
- Garlic aioli: A creamy, garlicky spread that pairs perfectly with the warm spices of the chicken.
- Romaine lettuce: Adds crunch and fresh green color to every bite.
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced: Provides juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced: Offers a mildly sharp, crisp texture for contrast.
How to Make Best Ever Chicken Burger with Mediterranean-Spiced Chicken Patties Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture
Start by combining the ground chicken, half of the bread crumbs, Greek yogurt, grated onion, Italian seasoning, and Urfa Biber in a medium bowl. Add a generous drizzle of olive oil to keep things tender and mix with your hands until everything is fully incorporated. This hands-on step ensures the flavors marry beautifully while creating the ideal texture for your patties.
Step 2: Bread the Chicken Patties
Next, spread the remaining bread crumbs onto a plate. Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions, shape each into a ball, and then gently roll them in the bread crumbs. Press them lightly with your palms to form patties approximately 3/4 inch thick. This crumb coating is the secret to a satisfyingly crisp crust.
Step 3: Pan-Sear the Patties
Heat a large cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium heat and brush the bottom with about 2 teaspoons of extra virgin olive oil. When the oil begins to shimmer, arrange the patties without crowding, allowing plenty of room for a golden crust to develop. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes on one side without flipping too soon. Then turn the patties over and cook for another 3 minutes until they are deeply browned and cooked through.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
Now comes the fun part—building your burgers! Spread a thin layer of garlic aioli on each burger bun or lettuce leaf. Add your freshly cooked Mediterranean-spiced chicken patty, then pile on crisp romaine, juicy tomato slices, and sharp red onion rings. Serve immediately so you can enjoy the perfect harmony of warm patty, crunchy vegetables, and creamy aioli in every bite.
How to Serve Best Ever Chicken Burger with Mediterranean-Spiced Chicken Patties Recipe
Garnishes
For garnishes, think fresh and vibrant to complement the rich, spiced patties. Adding a few sprigs of fresh parsley, a light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, or even a sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese can elevate the flavors. These touches bring brightness and a Mediterranean flair that make the burger feel even more special.
Side Dishes
This chicken burger pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Crispy sweet potato fries, a simple Greek salad with olives and cucumbers, or even a refreshing tzatziki dip are excellent companions. Each side adds texture and flavor contrast that make the meal feel like a complete Mediterranean feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress? Try serving the burgers as sliders on mini buns for a fun appetizer or at a gathering. Alternatively, place the patties on a bed of mixed greens dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a light, low-carb meal. Wrapping them in lettuce instead of buns creates a fresh, handheld option that’s perfect for summertime or anyone avoiding gluten.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover patties or assembled burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the buns separate to prevent sogginess. This allows you to reheat quickly and enjoy the Best Ever Chicken Burger with Mediterranean-Spiced Chicken Patties Recipe even on busy days.
Freezing
To freeze the chicken patties, place uncooked, breaded patties on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and pan-sear as usual, or cook from frozen adding a few extra minutes for thorough cooking.
Reheating
The best way to reheat your patties is to warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to maintain their crisp crust. Alternatively, pop them in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to preserve that crispy, golden exterior.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
You can, but for the juiciest Best Ever Chicken Burger with Mediterranean-Spiced Chicken Patties Recipe, ground chicken thigh or a mixture of thigh and breast is recommended because of the higher fat content which keeps the patties tender.
What can I substitute for Urfa Biber if I don’t have it?
Red pepper flakes make an excellent substitute as they provide a similar, mild heat and smoky flavor, though Urfa Biber adds a unique depth that’s worth seeking out if you love authentic Mediterranean tastes.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free bread crumbs and swap the burger buns for lettuce wraps, and you’ve got a delicious gluten-free meal that doesn’t sacrifice any flavor or texture.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties up to a day in advance and keep them refrigerated until cooking. This makes assembling your burgers quick and easy whenever hunger strikes.
What’s the best way to keep the patties from falling apart?
Using Greek yogurt and bread crumbs in the mixture helps bind the chicken together. Also, handle the patties gently when forming and avoid pressing down with a spatula while cooking to keep them intact and juicy.
Final Thoughts
If you want a burger that feels both comforting and adventurous, the Best Ever Chicken Burger with Mediterranean-Spiced Chicken Patties Recipe is exactly what you need. It blends simple, wholesome ingredients with bold Mediterranean flavors and satisfying textures. Trust me, once you make this, it will become a staple in your recipe collection that friends and family will be asking for again and again.
Print
Best Ever Chicken Burger with Mediterranean-Spiced Chicken Patties Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 7 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Entree/Poultry
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American/Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
This Best Ever Chicken Burger recipe features Mediterranean-spiced chicken patties that are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned. The patties are breaded for an extra crispy exterior and pan-seared to golden perfection. Served with fresh lettuce, tomatoes, red onions, and garlic aioli on soft burger buns, this dish offers a delicious balance of textures and flavors. A gluten-free option is available by using gluten-free breadcrumbs and lettuce wraps, making it a versatile and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup dried bread crumbs (can use gluten-free bread crumbs)
- 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
- 1 small yellow onion, grated
- 1 1/2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon Urfa Biber (or red pepper flakes)
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Extra virgin olive oil (about 3 tablespoons total)
To Serve
- 4 burger buns (or lettuce wraps for low carb/gluten free option)
- Garlic aioli
- Romaine lettuce
- 1 large tomato, thinly sliced
- 1 medium red onion, thinly sliced
Instructions
- Make the chicken patty mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, 1/4 cup of the bread crumbs, Greek yogurt, grated onion, Italian seasoning, Urfa Biber (or red pepper flakes), a drizzle of olive oil (about 1 tablespoon), kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using your hands (wear gloves or wash hands afterwards) until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Bread the chicken patties: Spread the remaining 1/4 cup of bread crumbs on a plate. Divide the chicken mixture into 4 large meatballs. Roll each meatball gently in the bread crumbs, then press with your palms to flatten into patties about 3/4-inch thick.
- Pan-sear the chicken patties: Heat a large cast iron skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Brush the bottom with about 2 teaspoons of olive oil until shimmering. Place the patties in the skillet spaced apart. Cook without moving until the bottoms are browned, about 4-5 minutes. Flip each patty and cook for another 3 minutes or until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Build the chicken burgers: Spread a thin layer of garlic aioli on the burger buns or lettuce wraps. Layer with romaine lettuce, the warm chicken patties, slices of tomato, and red onion. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and serve the patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- You can substitute Urfa Biber with red pepper flakes if unavailable.
- Ensure the chicken patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Using Greek yogurt in the mixture helps keep the patties moist and tender.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste.
