If you’re craving a fresh, flavorful twist on the classic burger, look no further than this Greek Chicken Burgers with Feta and Tzatziki Recipe. It brings together juicy ground chicken, salty feta, and aromatic herbs for a vibrant blend that’s bursting with Mediterranean flair. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of creamy tzatziki, crispy onions, and tender chicken patties that will make your taste buds dance. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner but special enough to impress friends at your next barbecue.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to capturing the authentic flavor of these Greek Chicken Burgers with Feta and Tzatziki Recipe. Each component plays an important role — from tender chicken and tangy feta to fragrant oregano and creamy tzatziki — creating an irresistible harmony of taste and texture.
- 1 lb ground chicken: Choose lean but juicy chicken for a flavorful, healthy base.
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled: Adds a salty, tangy kick that perfectly complements the chicken.
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped: Provides sharpness and a bit of crunch to the patties.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses robust Mediterranean aroma and depth to the mix.
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano: A classic herb that brings earthy warmth distinctive to Greek cuisine.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Olive oil for grilling: Prevents sticking and adds a fruity richness during cooking.
- Whole wheat buns for serving: Offers wholesome texture and a hearty base for the burger.
- Tzatziki sauce for serving: Creamy, cool, and refreshing, it perfectly balances the savory patties.
How to Make Greek Chicken Burgers with Feta and Tzatziki Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
Start by combining the ground chicken, crumbled feta, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything until it’s just combined — be careful not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture evenly into four portions and shape each into a patty about the size of your bun. Press firmly enough to hold together but not so much that the burgers become dense.
Step 3: Preheat and Prepare the Grill or Skillet
Heat your grill or skillet over medium heat and lightly brush the surface with olive oil. This step prevents sticking and helps create a crispy, golden crust on the patties.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Patties
Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side. You want them cooked through with a lovely golden-brown exterior, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burgers
Once cooked, place each chicken patty on a toasted whole wheat bun. Generously spread tzatziki sauce on the top or bottom bun, or even both, for a refreshing finish. Add any extra toppings you like, then serve immediately for the best experience.
How to Serve Greek Chicken Burgers with Feta and Tzatziki Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes take these Greek chicken burgers from delicious to spectacular. Consider adding slices of ripe tomatoes, crisp lettuce leaves, or thin cucumber ribbons to complement the creamy feta and tangy tzatziki. A sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or parsley also lifts the flavor and adds a burst of color.
Side Dishes
Greek Chicken Burgers with Feta and Tzatziki Recipe pair wonderfully with light, Mediterranean-inspired sides. Crisp Greek salad, roasted lemon potatoes, or a side of grilled vegetables will round out your meal beautifully without overwhelming the burger’s fresh flavors. For something quick, pita chips with hummus or a simple cucumber salad work perfectly too.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to mix things up? Serve the patties open-faced on pita bread, topped with extra feta crumbles and a drizzle of olive oil. Alternatively, turn the burgers into a salad bowl by crumbling cooked patties over mixed greens and drizzling tzatziki on top. These creative presentations make the meal feel fun and a bit unexpected.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the cooked patties separately from the buns and tzatziki in airtight containers in the fridge. They’ll keep well for 3 to 4 days. This prevents the buns from getting soggy and the sauce from losing its refreshing texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked patties individually on a lined baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge and cook as directed. Freezing helps maintain the patties’ flavor and texture.
Reheating
Reheat cooked patties gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to keep their juiciness and prevent toughness. Toast the buns fresh and add tzatziki just before serving for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a good substitute and will create a similar flavor profile. Just be mindful that turkey is leaner and may require adding a bit of olive oil or moisture to keep the patties juicy.
Is there a way to make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the whole wheat buns for gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps. The patties themselves are naturally gluten-free since they don’t contain breadcrumbs or other fillers.
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time?
Definitely. You can mix and shape the patties a day ahead and keep them covered in the fridge. This makes dinner prep even easier and lets the flavors meld wonderfully.
What can I use if I don’t have tzatziki sauce?
If tzatziki isn’t on hand, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt mixed with minced cucumber, garlic, lemon juice, and dill to create a quick homemade version. It won’t be exactly the same but still delicious and refreshing.
How do I prevent the chicken burgers from falling apart when cooking?
The key is not to overmix the ground chicken and to form firm, compact patties. Also, cooking them over medium heat and avoiding pressing down on the patties with a spatula helps maintain their shape and juiciness.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably satisfying about sinking your teeth into a juicy, flavorful Greek Chicken Burger with Feta and Tzatziki Recipe. It’s a dish that marries the familiar comfort of a burger with the vibrant, fresh tastes of Greece. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your meal rotation. So grab those ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy a bite of Mediterranean sunshine right at home!
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Greek Chicken Burgers with Feta and Tzatziki Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Greek Chicken Burgers are a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic favorite, combining ground chicken with feta cheese, red onion, garlic, and oregano. Grilled to perfection and served on whole wheat buns with creamy tzatziki sauce, they make a delicious and quick meal ready in just 22 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for grilling
For Serving
- Whole wheat buns
- Tzatziki sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta cheese, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until all ingredients are well blended.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 evenly sized patties, making sure they hold together well for grilling.
- Preheat Grill or Skillet: Heat a grill or a skillet over medium heat and brush the cooking surface lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook Patties: Place the chicken patties on the grill or skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the burgers are fully cooked through and develop a golden brown crust.
- Assemble Burgers: Serve each cooked chicken burger on a whole wheat bun topped with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce for a refreshing finish.
Notes
- Ensure the internal temperature of the chicken patties reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Use fresh oregano if available for a more vibrant flavor.
- To keep patties moist, do not overmix the chicken mixture.
- These burgers can also be cooked on an indoor grill pan if an outdoor grill is unavailable.
- Customize toppings with lettuce, tomato, or cucumber slices for extra texture and taste.
