Ingredients
Chicken Patties
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1½ cups fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ⅓ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- 1 large egg
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup finely grated onion
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 2 tbsp olive oil, for frying
Optional Serving
- Lemon wedges
- Fresh dill or parsley
- Tzatziki sauce
- Cucumber and tomato
- Lettuce or pita bread
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach: Finely chop the spinach and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This helps the patties hold together.
- Make the mixture: Add ground chicken, spinach, feta, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, dill, oregano, paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and lemon juice to a bowl.
- Mix gently: Combine just until everything is evenly mixed. Don’t overmix, or the patties can become dense.
- Shape: Divide into 6–8 equal portions and gently flatten into patties about ¾-inch thick.
- Heat the pan: Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook: Place patties in the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, until deeply golden brown and the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Rest: Transfer to a plate and let them rest for 2–3 minutes.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh dill and lemon. Serve with tzatziki, salad, rice, pita, or your favorite vegetables.
Nutrition — Approx. Per Patty
Varies with patty size and ingredients.
- Calories: 180–230 kcal
- Protein: 20–24 g
- Carbohydrates: 5–8 g
- Fat: 9–13 g
- Fiber: 1–2 g
Nut & Allergen Information
- Peanuts: None
- Tree nuts: None
- Dairy: Yes — feta cheese
- Eggs: Yes
- Wheat/Gluten: Possible from regular breadcrumbs
- Soy: May be present in packaged breadcrumbs/seasonings
- Mustard: Usually none
Nut-free: Yes, the basic recipe contains no peanuts or tree nuts.
Q/S — Quick Questions & Substitutions
Can I use ground turkey?
Yes. Ground turkey works well, although it can be slightly drier than chicken.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it completely and squeeze it very dry before adding.
Can I skip the breadcrumbs?
Yes, but the mixture will be softer. Almond flour can also be used, but that would no longer be nut-free.
Can I use Parmesan instead of feta?
Yes, although feta gives the patties a stronger salty, creamy flavor.
Can I bake them?
Yes. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 18–22 minutes, turning once, until the center reaches 165°F.
Can I air-fry them?
Yes. Air fry at 375°F (190°C) for about 10–14 minutes, flipping halfway.
Can I freeze them?
Yes. Shape the uncooked patties, separate them with parchment, freeze, then store in an airtight bag.
Best serving idea: Add a spoonful of tzatziki + lemon + fresh dill on top for a Mediterranean-style finish.
