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Greek Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki are my answer to healthy, flavor-packed dinners that do not skimp on comfort food satisfaction. These juicy burgers combine tender ground chicken with earthy greens and plenty of Mediterranean herbs for a meal that is both nourishing and crave-worthy. I reach for this recipe whenever I want something fresh but still hearty enough to keep everyone at the table happy.
I remember making these burgers for a backyard get-together and watching even the non-chicken fans go back for seconds. There is just something about that zesty tzatziki on top that brings everything together.
Ingredients
- Garlic cloves: Provide aromatic depth when gently sautéed Choose firm heavy bulbs for the best flavor
- Green onions: Give a fresh bite and color Select crisp stalks with bright green tops
- Coconut oil: Helps blend flavors while keeping the burgers tender Opt for unrefined if you want a subtle coconut fragrance
- Frozen spinach: Adds moisture and a nutritious green boost Press out as much liquid as possible to avoid soggy burgers
- Ground chicken: Makes for leaner patties with a mild flavor Buy pasture raised if possible
- Dried oregano and dried basil: Punch up the Greek flavor profile Use fresh herbs if it is summer
- Feta cheese: Offers richness and classic salty tang Always buy blocks and crumble yourself for best texture
- Coarse sea salt: Enhances all the flavors Look for natural unrefined varieties
- Fresh ground black pepper: Gives just a hint of heat Grind right before use for maximum aroma
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mince the Aromatics:
- Mince the garlic cloves as finely as possible and chop the green onions thinly especially the white and light green parts This helps them blend smoothly into the burgers so each bite is infused with flavor
- Sauté the Aromatics:
- Heat coconut oil in a large sauté pan over medium heat Once shimmering add prepared garlic and green onions Stir and cook for about two minutes just until they smell fragrant but have not browned Browning can turn the garlic bitter Reduce heat if needed and stir often Remove from heat as soon as they turn soft
- Prepare the Spinach:
- Take frozen spinach straight from the freezer and use your hands or a clean kitchen towel to squeeze out as much water as possible Mince it very finely afterward This keeps your patties tender not watery and ensures even distribution in each patty
- Mix and Form the Patties:
- In a large mixing bowl add ground chicken sautéed aromatics minced spinach dried herbs crumbled feta cheese sea salt and black pepper Use clean hands to gently but thoroughly mix—handling as little as possible keeps patties juicy Divide mixture and form into even patties about three quarters inch thick so they cook evenly
- Grill or Sauté the Burgers:
- Heat a grill or skillet to medium Cook patties gently turning once to avoid breaking until golden brown on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 160 degrees This keeps them moist but food safe Adjust heat so they do not burn before cooking through
- Serve with Tzatziki:
- Serve the hot burgers tucked into warm pitas or over a bed of hearty greens Generously spoon tzatziki over each and sprinkle with more herbs or a handful of chopped cucumbers for crunch
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Frozen spinach is my not so secret weapon here Its convenience means I can whip up these burgers anytime without worrying about washing and chopping greens One summer we made these on vacation in a cabin with barely any kitchen tools and everyone begged for the recipe before the week was over
Storage Tips
Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days They also freeze well—wrap cooled burgers individually and stash in a freezer bag for up to three months Warm them in a skillet or oven to keep them juicy Avoid microwaving for too long which can dry them out
Ingredient Substitutions
Swap ground turkey for the chicken if that is what you have or if you prefer a slightly richer taste Fresh spinach can replace frozen just wilt and drain it before chopping For dairy free try using vegan feta and coconut yogurt tzatziki
Serving Suggestions
Pile burgers high on toasted pita with lettuce tomato and plenty of extra tzatziki or serve over lemony rice and a Greek salad Sometimes I double the batch and serve with crispy sweet potato fries for dinner that feels like a feast
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These Greek burgers prove that healthy eating and bold flavors can go hand in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of chicken works best?
Pasture-raised ground chicken provides excellent flavor and texture for this dish, giving optimal juiciness and taste.
- → Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh spinach can be used. Sauté briefly and chop finely before mixing into the patties.
- → Is feta cheese essential?
Feta adds distinct tang and creamy texture, but can be substituted with other crumbly cheeses if preferred.
- → What’s the best way to cook the patties?
Grill or sauté over medium heat until a safe internal temperature of 160°F is reached for juicy, flavorful burgers.
- → How should I serve these burgers?
Serve hot with tzatziki, either on a pita or atop mixed greens for a lighter option.
- → Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, shape the patties in advance and refrigerate. Cook just before serving for best results.