This recipe offers a delightful combination of Mediterranean flavors, fresh ingredients, and wholesome nutrients. The chicken burgers are juicy and packed with vegetables and herbs, complemented by a creamy Greek yogurt sauce and a refreshing tomato-cucumber relish. It's a meal that’s light, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
For the Greek Yogurt Sauce:
1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat or low-fat, based on preference)
2 teaspoons lemon zest (approximately from 1 lemon)
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, finely minced or grated
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Chicken Burgers:
1 pound ground chicken (preferably lean)
1 medium zucchini, finely chopped or grated
Kernels from 1 fresh ear of corn (approximately 1/2 cup)
1 red bell pepper, finely diced
3 green onions, thinly sliced
1 large egg, lightly beaten
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced or grated
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
3-4 tablespoons olive oil (for pan-frying)
For the Tomato-Cucumber Relish:
1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered
1 medium seedless cucumber, diced
2 green onions, thinly sliced
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
Zest of 1 lemon
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
A pinch of salt (adjust to taste)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Greek Yogurt Sauce
The Greek yogurt sauce adds a creamy, tangy flavor that complements the burgers and relish beautifully. To make it:
1. In a small mixing bowl, combine the Greek yogurt, lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt.
2. Stir the mixture until smooth and well combined.
3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate to chill while you prepare the rest of the meal. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together for a more pronounced taste.
2. Preheat Your Oven
Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). This step ensures that the chicken patties cook thoroughly and remain juicy.
3. Prepare the Chicken Burger Mixture
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped zucchini, fresh corn kernels, diced red bell pepper, and sliced green onions.
2. Add the beaten egg, panko breadcrumbs, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and black pepper.
3. Mix all the ingredients gently but thoroughly using clean hands or a wooden spoon. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the patties dense.
4. Once the mixture is combined, divide it into equal portions and shape them into burger patties. Aim for patties that are about 1/2-inch thick for even cooking.
4. Cook the Burger Patties
1. Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken patties in the skillet. Make sure not to overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary.
3. Cook the patties for approximately 2 minutes on each side or until they develop a golden-brown crust. This step locks in the juices and creates a flavorful sear.
5. Finish Cooking in the Oven
1. Transfer the browned patties onto a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased.
2. Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and bake for 7-10 minutes, or until the internal temperature of the patties reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Remove the patties from the oven and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Make the Tomato-Cucumber Relish
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the quartered cherry or grape tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced green onions, and chopped cilantro.
2. Add the minced garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt.
3. Toss the ingredients gently to combine. The relish should be fresh, colorful, and lightly seasoned.
7. Assemble and Serve
1. To serve, place the cooked chicken burgers on your choice of tortillas, flatbreads, or lightly toasted burger buns.
2. Add a generous dollop of the chilled Greek yogurt sauce on top of each burger.
3. Serve the tomato-cucumber relish on the side or spoon some over the burgers for an extra burst of freshness.
4. Enjoy the meal warm with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite Mediterranean sides.
Tips for Success
1. Grating the Zucchini: If you prefer a smoother texture in the patties, grate the zucchini instead of chopping it. Be sure to squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the burger mixture.
2. Customizing the Sauce: Add fresh dill, parsley, or mint to the Greek yogurt sauce for a unique twist.
3. Make Ahead: Both the patties and the sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Simply refrigerate the patties until ready to cook and store the sauce in an airtight container.
4. Serving Options: For a low-carb version, serve the burgers on lettuce leaves instead of bread or tortillas.
Nutritional Benefits
This dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
Chicken: A lean source of protein.
Vegetables: The zucchini, corn, bell pepper, tomatoes, and cucumber provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
Greek Yogurt: Adds probiotics and protein to the dish.
Conclusion
These Mediterranean Chicken Burgers with Greek Yogurt Sauce and Tomato-Cucumber Relish are a perfect way to enjoy a healthy, flavorful meal. The vibrant flavors of the fresh herbs and vegetables, combined with the creamy yogurt sauce, make this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or preparing a weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy the taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!
