introduction
Since I was very young, cooking has always held a special place in my life. My name is Adam, and it was alongside my mother that I discovered the magic of flavors and homemade dishes. This Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe brings those memories to the table. It blends bright lemon, salty feta, and briny olives into simple, healthy burgers that feel special.
People search for Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe because they want a lean, flavorful meal that cooks quickly. In this post, I will show you why this recipe works, how to make it step by step, and how to serve and store it. If you enjoy Greek flavors in a quick meal, also try this Greek chicken flatbread recipe for another family-friendly option.
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Healthy
Description
Lean, flavorful burgers made with feta, olives, and lemon. A quick and healthy dinner option ready in about 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken breast (or a mix of breast and thigh for more juiciness)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably full-fat for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Whole wheat burger buns or lettuce wraps (for serving)
- Sliced cucumber (for serving)
- Sliced tomatoes (for serving)
- Fresh spinach or arugula (for serving)
- Tzatziki sauce (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta, chopped olives, red onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4 even portions and shape into patties with uniform thickness.
- Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
- Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optional: Toast the burger buns or prepare lettuce wraps.
- Serve the cooked burgers on buns or wraps with toppings like cucumber, tomato, spinach, and tzatziki.
Notes
Rest the burgers after cooking for 3-5 minutes to maintain moisture. Use cold ingredients to help the patties hold shape.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Greek
why make this recipe
You should make this Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe for taste and health. The burgers deliver bold Mediterranean flavors without heavy fat. Ground chicken keeps calories lower than beef. Feta and olives add richness and depth. The recipe uses pantry staples. It cooks in about 20 minutes. That makes it perfect for busy weeknights. You can also make it ahead for meal prep. Swap buns for lettuce wraps to cut carbs. Serve the burgers at summer barbecues or a cozy weeknight dinner. The recipe answers common pain points: it stays moist, it avoids blandness, and it uses simple seasonings. If you want different chicken ideas, check these chicken recipes for extra inspiration.
how to make Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe
Start by seasoning the meat with bright and savory additions. Mix the ground chicken with crumbled feta, chopped Kalamata olives, red onion, garlic, oregano, basil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Use your hands or a spoon to fold everything together gently. Do not overwork the mixture. Overmixing makes the burgers dense.
Shape the mixture into four even patties. Press each patty to a uniform thickness. Even patties cook more consistently. Chill the patties for 10 minutes if you have time. Chilling helps them hold together on the grill or skillet.
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm. Place the patties in the pan without crowding. Cook 6–7 minutes per side. Flip once. Aim for a golden crust. Use an instant-read thermometer to check the internal temperature. Cook until the center reaches 165°F (74°C).
Rest the burgers for a few minutes after cooking. Resting helps the juices redistribute. Serve on toasted whole wheat buns or in lettuce wraps. Top with cucumber, tomato, fresh greens, and tzatziki if you like. Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook. That squeezes out juices and dries the burger. Also avoid high heat that burns the outside before the center cooks.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken breast (or a mix of breast and thigh for more juiciness)
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (preferably full-fat for more flavor)
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
- Zest of 1/2 lemon
- Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving (optional):
- Whole wheat burger buns or lettuce wraps
- Sliced cucumber
- Sliced tomatoes
- Fresh spinach or arugula
- Tzatziki sauce (optional)
Each ingredient plays a clear role. Ground chicken provides the lean base. Feta adds creaminess and salt. Kalamata olives bring briny depth. Lemon juice and zest brighten the overall flavor. Garlic and onion deliver savory notes. Olive oil prevents sticking and helps develop a crust. For swaps, use ground turkey if you prefer. Mix half thigh meat with breast for juicier burgers. Choose full-fat feta for better texture. Fresh herbs work well instead of dried, but adjust quantities. For a dairy-free option, omit the feta and add a touch more salt and a tablespoon of tahini.
Directions
Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, crumbled feta, chopped olives, red onion, minced garlic, oregano, basil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the burgers tough.
Form the Patties:
Divide the chicken mixture into 4 even portions and shape each portion into a patty, pressing down gently to form an even thickness. This will ensure they cook evenly.
Cook the Burgers:
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once the pan is hot, place the patties in the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the burgers are golden brown on both sides. Alternatively, you can grill the burgers over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side.
Serve:
Toast the burger buns if desired, or prepare lettuce wraps if you’re keeping it low-carb. Place the cooked chicken burger on the bun or wrap, and top with fresh cucumber, tomato slices, spinach or arugula, and a dollop of tzatziki sauce (if using). Serve with your favorite side, such as roasted vegetables, a simple Greek salad, or sweet potato fries.
For perfect results, make sure the skillet is hot before you add the patties. Use an instant-read thermometer to avoid overcooking. Rest the burgers for 3–5 minutes before serving. This Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe rewards patience with better texture and juicier flavor.
how to serve Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe
Serve these burgers warm. The texture balances tender interior and a light crust. Pair them with tzatziki for cool creaminess. Fresh cucumber and tomato add crunch and acidity. A side Greek salad complements the same flavor profile. For a heartier meal, add roasted sweet potatoes or oven fries. For a lighter plate, use lettuce wraps and a side of grilled vegetables. The burgers fit casual weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, and meal prep bowls. If you want a full Mediterranean spread, serve with hummus and warm pita. For another fun chicken idea, try these buffalo chicken tacos to switch up your weeknight menu.
how to store Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe
Cool the cooked burgers to room temperature within two hours. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, place the cooled patties on a baking sheet and flash-freeze for one hour. Then transfer them to a freezer bag or container. Frozen cooked patties keep well for up to three months. Reheat refrigerated burgers in a skillet over low heat, covered, for a few minutes until warmed through. Reheat frozen patties from frozen in a 350°F oven for 12–15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Always reheat to a safe temperature and avoid repeated reheating to preserve texture and safety.
tips to make Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe
Keep a few simple tips in mind. Use cold ingredients to help the patties hold shape. If the mixture feels too loose, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or an extra egg white to bind. Use a light hand when mixing. Press a shallow dimple in the center of each patty before cooking to avoid doming. Cook over medium heat. Too hot a pan will char the outside and undercook the middle. Let the patties rest after cooking to keep them moist. If you plan to grill, oil the grates and brush the patties lightly with oil to prevent sticking. These small steps make a big difference for a consistent result.
variation (if any)
Make Greek turkey burgers by swapping ground chicken for ground turkey. Add chopped fresh mint and parsley for a brighter herb profile. For a spicy kick, fold in a finely chopped jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne. Try Mediterranean lamb burgers by using ground lamb and reducing the feta slightly. For a vegetarian twist, use mashed chickpeas with crumbled feta, olives, and egg as a binder. You can also turn the burgers into sliders for parties by making smaller patties and serving on mini buns with cucumber ribbons.
FAQs
Q: Can I make Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes. Shape the patties and store them, covered, in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked patties for up to three months.
Q: How do I keep chicken burgers from falling apart?
A: Use cold meat, avoid overmixing, and chill the formed patties for 10–15 minutes. Add a light binder like an egg white or a tablespoon of breadcrumbs if needed.
Q: Can I grill these burgers on a charcoal grill?
A: Yes. Oil the grates well and cook over medium heat. Grill 6–7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Conclusion
This Healthy Greek Chicken Burgers Recipe gives you a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal. For a different take on Greek chicken burgers, see this Greek Chicken Burgers – Downshiftology for inspiration. If you like a version with an emphasis on fresh herbs and simplicity, check out this Greek Chicken Burgers – Laughing Spatula. For a creamy tzatziki pairing and serving ideas, this Greek Chicken Burgers with Creamy Tzatziki – All the Healthy Things offers helpful tips.