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This Greek chicken burger recipe transforms ordinary ground chicken into a Mediterranean-inspired meal that's bursting with fresh herbs and tangy flavors. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and aromatic herbs creates juicy patties that work perfectly on their own or as the centerpiece of a loaded burger.
I first created these Greek chicken burgers when looking for healthier alternatives to beef burgers that wouldn't sacrifice flavor. My family was skeptical at first but now requests these burgers regularly for our weekend cookouts.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: provides a leaner alternative to beef while absorbing all the Mediterranean flavors beautifully
- Red onion: adds a pleasant bite and subtle sweetness that balances the other ingredients
- Garlic cloves: enhance the overall flavor profile with their aromatic quality
- Sun dried tomatoes: bring intense umami and a slight tanginess that elevates the entire burger
- Baby spinach: incorporates nutrients and a mild earthiness while adding beautiful color
- Fresh dill: introduces that classic Greek flavor that makes these burgers truly special
- Dried oregano: works as the backbone herb that ties all Mediterranean flavors together
- Kosher salt: ensures proper seasoning throughout the patty
- Black pepper: adds necessary warmth and depth
- Extra virgin olive oil: helps achieve a beautiful golden crust when cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the mixture:
- Combine ground chicken with red onion, minced garlic, chopped sun dried tomatoes, roughly chopped spinach, fresh dill, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a medium bowl. Use your hands to gently mix everything until just combined. Overmixing can make the patties tough, so stop once ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Form the patties:
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 1 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up during cooking. This ensures even cooking throughout.
- Cook to perfection:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Place the patties in the pan, being careful not to overcrowd. Cook for approximately 5 minutes on the first side until golden brown, then flip carefully and cook another 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The patties should have a beautiful golden crust.
- Assemble and serve:
- Transfer cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve immediately on butter lettuce leaves for a low carb option or on your favorite buns. Top with tzatziki sauce, crumbled feta, sliced tomatoes, onions, and avocado for a complete meal experience.
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The sun dried tomatoes are truly the secret ingredient in this recipe. Their concentrated flavor adds a depth that fresh tomatoes simply cannot achieve. I discovered this accidentally when I had a jar that needed using up, and now I make sure to always keep sun dried tomatoes in my pantry specifically for these burgers.
Storage and Reheating
These Greek chicken burgers maintain their quality remarkably well when stored properly. After cooking, allow them to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They will keep in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days without losing flavor or becoming dry. To reheat, place them in a 350°F oven for about 10 minutes or until warmed through. Microwaving works in a pinch but might result in slightly less texture.
Make-Ahead Options
The chicken mixture can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance, which makes these burgers perfect for entertaining. Simply combine all ingredients, form the patties, and store them in the refrigerator with parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. This allows the flavors to meld together even more, resulting in an even tastier burger when cooked.
Serving Suggestions
Transform these Greek chicken burgers into a complete Mediterranean feast by serving them alongside traditional accompaniments. A Greek salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, red onions, kalamata olives and feta makes a perfect side dish. For a heartier meal, pair with Greek fries seasoned with oregano and lemon. Creating a DIY burger bar with various toppings like tzatziki, hummus, sliced red onion, tomatoes, and feta allows everyone to customize their perfect burger.
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Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute ground chicken with another protein?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, lean ground beef, or even plant-based ground alternatives. Just be aware that cooking times may vary slightly depending on your choice of protein, and the flavor profile will change somewhat.
- → How do I prevent the chicken patties from falling apart?
To prevent crumbling, make sure not to overwork the mixture when combining ingredients. Chill the formed patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them firm up. When cooking, avoid repeatedly flipping them—just once per side is ideal.
- → What are the best toppings for Greek chicken burgers?
Traditional Mediterranean toppings work beautifully: tzatziki sauce, crumbled feta cheese, sliced cucumber, red onion, tomato, and fresh herbs like dill or mint. For added richness, consider sliced avocado or a squeeze of lemon juice.
- → Can these patties be baked instead of pan-fried?
Yes, they can be baked in a 375°F (190°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Brush them lightly with olive oil before baking to help them develop a nice color.
- → Are these burgers suitable for meal prep?
These are excellent for meal prep! You can prepare the raw patties up to a day ahead and refrigerate them, or cook them completely and store in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. They also freeze well for up to 3 months, making them perfect for planning ahead.
- → What sides pair well with these chicken burgers?
Greek fries with oregano and lemon are a perfect match. Other great options include a simple Greek salad, roasted vegetables, quinoa tabbouleh, or a Mediterranean orzo salad. For a lighter option, serve with a side of tzatziki and fresh vegetable sticks.