Introduction
If you’re looking for a refreshing, flavorful twist on the classic burger, these Greek Chicken Burgers are sure to impress. Packed with savory feta cheese, aromatic oregano, and a burst of freshness from red onion and garlic, these juicy chicken patties are a delightful fusion of Mediterranean flavors. With the addition of crunchy lettuce, cool cucumber, and creamy tzatziki sauce, these burgers offer the perfect balance of textures and tastes that will transport you straight to the sunny shores of Greece.
These Greek Chicken Burgers are not only delicious but also quick and easy to prepare, making them ideal for a weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ. Whether you’re a fan of traditional beef burgers or just looking to try something new, these chicken burgers are a lighter yet satisfying option that still delivers on flavor. The feta cheese adds a creamy, tangy kick that pairs perfectly with the grilled chicken, while the toppings elevate the burger to a whole new level. Ready in just 22 minutes, this is a burger you’ll want to make again and again.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Mediterranean Flavors: The combination of feta cheese, oregano, and garlic creates a flavor-packed patty that stands out from the typical burger.
- Quick and Easy: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 12 minutes of cooking, these burgers are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
- Healthy Alternative: Ground chicken is a leaner option than beef, making this burger a healthier choice without sacrificing taste.
- Customizable Toppings: From fresh lettuce and tomatoes to cool tzatziki sauce, you can customize the toppings to suit your tastes.
- Light and Satisfying: These burgers are filling and satisfying without being too heavy, making them the perfect balance of comfort and freshness.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Dried oregano
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Hamburger buns
- Toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, cucumber, tzatziki sauce)
Variations
- Add Veggies: You can add chopped spinach or zucchini to the chicken mixture for an extra boost of greens and moisture.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture for a spicy twist on the traditional Greek flavors.
- Gluten-Free: Serve the burger without the bun or use a gluten-free bun for a gluten-free option.
- Different Cheese: Swap feta with goat cheese or a mild mozzarella for a different flavor profile.
How to Make the Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions and form each portion into a patty. Make sure the patties are evenly shaped for consistent cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill for a few minutes until they are golden and slightly crispy.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, assemble the burgers. Place each patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun and top with your choice of toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, cucumber, and a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the burgers hot, and enjoy the Mediterranean-inspired flavors in every bite!
Tips for Making the Recipe
- Don’t Overmix the Chicken: When combining the ingredients for the patties, mix gently to avoid tough burgers. Overworking the chicken can make the patties dense.
- Make the Patties Even: For uniform cooking, make sure your patties are evenly sized and shaped. You can also use a measuring cup to help portion out the mixture.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C).
- Toast the Buns for Extra Flavor: Toasting the buns enhances their texture and flavor, providing a crispy contrast to the juicy chicken patty.
- Prep Ahead: You can prepare the chicken mixture and form the patties ahead of time. Refrigerate the patties for up to 24 hours before grilling to help the flavors meld.
How to Serve
These Greek Chicken Burgers are perfect served with a variety of sides. Try pairing them with crispy sweet potato fries, a Greek salad, or roasted vegetables for a wholesome meal. You can also serve them with extra tzatziki sauce on the side for dipping. They are also great for picnics or casual get-togethers—everyone will love the fresh, Mediterranean flavors.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet or on the grill for a few minutes to bring them back to life.
Freezing
You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Place the patties on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. To cook, thaw the patties in the refrigerator overnight and grill as directed.
Reheating
Reheat the burgers in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or microwave them for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
FAQs
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute for ground chicken and will provide a similar texture and flavor.
2. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can form the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before grilling.
3. Can I make these burgers without feta cheese?
Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the feta cheese or substitute it with another cheese, such as goat cheese or mozzarella.
4. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?
Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature of the patties has reached 165°F (75°C).
5. Can I make the patties larger or smaller?
Yes, you can adjust the size of the patties. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
6. Can I add extra seasonings to the burger mix?
Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs, such as paprika, cumin, or fresh parsley, to suit your taste.
7. Can I grill the burgers instead of using a grill pan?
Yes, you can cook the burgers on an outdoor grill as long as you preheat it to medium heat.
8. Can I freeze the cooked burgers?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked burgers for up to 3 months. Reheat them in the microwave or on the stove for the best results.
9. How can I make these burgers spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick.
10. Can I use a different sauce instead of tzatziki?
Yes, if you’re not a fan of tzatziki, you can use other sauces like hummus, a yogurt-based ranch, or a spicy garlic sauce.
Conclusion
These Greek Chicken Burgers bring the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean to your plate in a delicious and easy-to-make meal. With savory chicken patties infused with feta, oregano, and garlic, topped with fresh veggies and creamy tzatziki sauce, this burger is a perfect balance of light, flavorful, and satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a healthy dinner option or just want to spice up your burger routine, these Greek Chicken Burgers are sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.
PrintGreek Chicken Burgers
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Description
These Greek Chicken Burgers are a delicious, Mediterranean-inspired twist on the classic burger. Ground chicken is mixed with tangy feta cheese, red onion, and fragrant oregano, then grilled to perfection. Topped with fresh veggies like cucumber, tomato, and lettuce, plus a generous helping of tzatziki sauce, these burgers are a light yet satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Toppings of your choice (lettuce, tomato, cucumber, tzatziki sauce)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, feta cheese, red onion, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form the mixture into 4 patties.
- Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for a few minutes.
- Assemble the burgers with your choice of toppings.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra juiciness, you can add a tablespoon of olive oil to the chicken mixture.
- If you like extra flavor, try adding some Kalamata olives to the burger mix.
- Tzatziki sauce is the perfect pairing, but you can substitute with a yogurt-based dressing if preferred.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes