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These Greek chicken burgers are a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend cookout, they bring vibrant Mediterranean flavors into an easy to make meal that feels both hearty and light.
I first made this recipe when I wanted something lighter than a beef burger but still satisfying. It quickly became a family favorite especially with the tangy tzatziki sauce on top.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: offers a lean base but remains juicy when cooked properly
- Red onion: adds just the right bite and a bit of sweetness when sautéed gently
- Garlic: fresh or minced brings essential depth and aroma
- Sun-dried tomatoes: provide a concentrated, slightly sweet punch choose oil-packed for softness and flavor
- Baby spinach: adds color and nutrition without overpowering
- Fresh dill: infuses a bright, fragrant herb note characteristic of Greek cuisine
- Dried oregano: imparts that classic Mediterranean earthiness opt for good quality to get the most aroma
- Kosher salt: enhances all the flavors without being overly salty
- Ground black pepper: adds warmth and a mild kick
- Extra virgin olive oil: is key for cooking and adds richness pick a good bottle for better flavor
Instructions
- Make The Patties:
- In a medium bowl, add the ground chicken, diced red onion, minced garlic, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, roughly chopped spinach, fresh dill, dried oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands to gently but thoroughly combine all ingredients. Divide the mixture evenly into four portions and shape each into thick, round patties. Avoid compacting too much to keep the burgers tender.
- Cook The Patties:
- Heat the extra virgin olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking. Carefully place the patties in the pan, leaving enough space between them to turn easily. Cook for about five minutes on one side until golden brown and caramelized. Flip carefully and cook another five minutes until the chicken is cooked through with an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit or until juices run clear. Alternatively, preheat a grill and cook the patties over medium heat following the same timing.
- Assemble The Burger:
- Serve the patties simply on their own or layer them in butter lettuce leaves or burger buns. Add tzatziki sauce for creaminess, crumbled feta cheese for saltiness, and slices of tomato, onion, or creamy avocado according to your preference. This gives a great balance of cool and fresh alongside the warm, herby chicken.
Store cooked chicken patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep them moist. They also freeze well wrap individually and thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Ingredient swaps
If you can’t find sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers chopped finely work as a mild substitute. Fresh oregano can replace dried oregano but reduce the quantity as fresh herbs are more potent. Baby kale or finely chopped chard can swap for spinach if needed.
Serving ideas
Try these chicken burgers with a bright cucumber and tomato salad on the side or sweet potato fries for a full meal. A dollop of homemade or store-bought tzatziki makes a classic topping that pairs perfectly with the herbs and spices.
Cultural context
Greek cuisine is known for fresh herbs, olive oil, and simple but bold flavors. This burger recipe takes those traditional elements and fits them into a popular format that’s easy to enjoy year-round. Dill and oregano together reflect typical Greek flavor combinations seen in dishes like tzatziki and grilled meats.
Cook patties until golden brown about five minutes per side Use fresh herbs for best flavor Serve with traditional Greek toppings for authenticity
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → What herbs enhance the flavor of these chicken patties?
Fresh dill and dried oregano add distinctive Mediterranean herbal notes that complement the chicken and sun-dried tomatoes beautifully.
- → Can I grill these chicken patties instead of pan-cooking?
Yes, grilling is an excellent alternative that adds a smoky char while keeping the patties juicy and flavorful.
- → What optional toppings pair well with these chicken patties?
Butter lettuce, creamy tzatziki, crumbled feta, sliced tomato, onion, and avocado enhance both texture and taste.
- → How do sun-dried tomatoes affect the overall taste?
Sun-dried tomatoes lend a concentrated, sweet-tart depth that balances the mildness of the chicken and savory herbs.
- → Is baby spinach necessary in the mixture?
Baby spinach adds a subtle freshness and slight earthiness that brightens the patties without overpowering other flavors.