If youโve been searching for a bright, flavorful upgrade to your classic burger night, Greek Chicken Burgers are about to become your new obsession. Juicy ground chicken, zesty Mediterranean herbs, a pop of lemon, and those unmistakable feta and olive flavors come together in patty form, stacked with fresh veggies and cool tzatziki. Each bite feels like a mini holiday to the sun-soaked Greek islesโwithout having to leave your kitchen. Whether itโs a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal with friends, these burgers are guaranteed to please everyone around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The best part about Greek Chicken Burgers is how easy the ingredients are to find, yet how powerfully delicious each one is. Every component plays a starring role in building a burger thatโs tender, juicy, and bursting with Mediterranean flair.
- Ground chicken: Lean, mild, and perfect for soaking up all those wonderful Greek-inspired flavors.
- Crumbled feta cheese: Adds pockets of creamy, salty deliciousness in every bite.
- Kalamata olives (chopped): For that deeply savory, briny punch you only get from real Greek olives.
- Fresh spinach (chopped): Sneaks in a boost of color and nutrients, plus a touch of earthy flavor.
- Red onion (finely diced): Brings a gentle bite and a pop of color without overpowering the mix.
- Garlic (minced): Infuses a warm, aromatic base note thatโs unmistakably Mediterranean.
- Lemon zest: Brightens up the whole burger with fresh, citrusy zing.
- Chopped fresh dill or oregano: Herbs are the secret to transporting these burgers straight to the Greek countryside.
- Salt & black pepper: Enhances the flavors and balances the whole mix.
- Olive oil: Helps create that perfect golden crust when cooking the patties.
- Burger buns: Choose soft brioche or sturdy whole wheatโanything to soak up the juices and support all your toppings.
- Toppings (lettuce, tomato, cucumber, tzatziki): Crisp, juicy, and refreshing to make the burger truly shine.
How to Make Greek Chicken Burgers
Step 1: Mix the Burger Patties
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta, chopped olives, spinach, red onion, garlic, lemon zest, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Use a fork or your hands (if you donโt mind getting a little messy!) to gently blend everything together. Be careful not to overmixโjust until everything is evenly distributed. This keeps your Greek Chicken Burgers extra tender.
Step 2: Shape Your Patties
Divide the mixture into even portions and form them into burger-shaped patties about 3/4-inch thick. If you find the mixture sticky, wet your hands slightly before shaping. Lay them on a parchment-lined plate or tray and keep them refrigerated while you prep your cooking surfaceโthis helps the burgers hold their shape beautifully.
Step 3: Cook to Juicy Perfection
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Arrange the patties without crowding, and cook for about 4โ5 minutes per side, flipping gently. You want a lovely golden crust on the outside with the inside cooked through (an instant-read thermometer should hit 165ยฐF). Resist the urge to press down; let them do their thing to stay juicy!
Step 4: Toast Your Buns
While your patties rest, lightly toast the burger buns in the same pan or under your broiler for a minute or two until golden. A warm bun transforms the whole experience, soaking up any juices and giving your Greek Chicken Burgers the perfect finishing touch.
Step 5: Assemble and Top
Layer each bun with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, cucumber, a warm chicken-feta patty, and a big dollop of creamy tzatziki. Pile on your favorite fresh toppingsโfrom extra feta to sliced red onionsโand crown with the top bun. Dig in while theyโre hot and marvel at the explosion of flavors!
How to Serve Greek Chicken Burgers
Garnishes
Go the extra mile by scattering more crumbled feta, chopped fresh dill or parsley, and even a sprinkle of sumac if you have it. A skewer with an olive perched on top is a fun, Greek-inspired burger flourish!
Side Dishes
Keep your Mediterranean theme rolling by pairing Greek Chicken Burgers with sides like lemony roasted potatoes, a classic Greek salad, or crunchy homemade sweet potato fries. Even a side of chips with extra tzatziki is a hit.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving these burgers bunless atop a Greek salad for a lighter spin, or slice the patties and tuck them into warm pita bread invites for a handheld Greek Chicken Burger gyro experience! Hosting friends? Make mini sliders for the ultimate appetizer platter.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cooked Greek Chicken Burgers will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the patties and toppings separately for the freshest flavors.
Freezing
Form uncooked patties, then wrap them individually in plastic wrap and freeze in a zip-top bag for up to two months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking for a speedy meal any night of the week.
Reheating
Warm leftover burgers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or cover and microwave in 30-second bursts until heated through. A quick splash of water in the pan helps keep them from drying out.
FAQs
Can I make Greek Chicken Burgers with ground turkey?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and soaks up those Greek flavors beautifully. Just be sure to use turkey with a little fat for the juiciest burgers.
How do I prevent the patties from becoming too dry?
Donโt skip the feta, olives, and veggiesโthey all add moisture. Also, avoid overcooking; pull the burgers off the heat as soon as they reach 165ยฐF inside for succulent results.
Can these burgers be grilled?
Yes! Just handle the patties carefully, as ground chicken is softer than beef. Grill over medium heat on a clean, well-oiled grate for 4โ5 minutes per side.
Whatโs the best sauce for these burgers?
Tzatziki is the classic choice, but you could also use a swipe of hummus or a squeeze of lemony yogurt sauce for an extra Mediterranean twist.
Are Greek Chicken Burgers gluten-free?
The patties themselves are naturally gluten-free! Just choose gluten-free buns or serve the burgers lettuce-wrapped or over salad for a GF meal.
Final Thoughts
Trust me: once you try these Greek Chicken Burgers, theyโll be on repeat at your table all year long. The punchy flavors, easy prep, and crowd-pleasing vibe make them impossible not to love. I canโt wait for you to taste the fresh Mediterranean magic of this recipe!
PrintGreek Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These juicy Greek Chicken Burgers are bursting with Mediterranean flavors from feta cheese, fresh spinach, and aromatic herbs. Easy to prepare and perfect for a healthier weeknight dinner, these burgers pair beautifully with tzatziki or your favorite sides. Enjoy a protein-packed, flavorful meal that brings Greek flair to your table.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Burgers
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 1/2 cup finely chopped fresh spinach (or baby spinach)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill (or 1 teaspoon dried dill)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving
- 4 burger buns (toasted if desired)
- Tzatziki sauce
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced tomato
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced red onion
Instructions
- Make the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, feta cheese, chopped spinach, red onion, minced garlic, parsley, dill, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a fork until everything is thoroughly combined but do not overwork the meat, as this can make the burgers tough.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties. Try to keep them about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking. Place the formed patties on a plate.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (or use a grill pan). When hot, add the burgers. Cook for 5โ6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ยฐF (74ยฐC) and the outside is golden brown.
- Prepare the Toppings: While the burgers cook, slice the cucumber, tomato, and red onion. Get the lettuce and buns ready. Warm or toast the burger buns if desired.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place a lettuce leaf on each bun, then add the cooked chicken burger. Top with tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumber, tomato, and onion. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ground turkey may be substituted for ground chicken if preferred.
- Feel free to add chopped kalamata olives to the burger mixture for extra Mediterranean flavor.
- These burgers can also be grilled outdoors for a smoky taste.
- Serve alongside Greek salad or baked sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (with bun and toppings)
- Calories: 370
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 13g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 29g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
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