Mediterranean Smash Chicken Burgers with Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce & Fresh Feta Crumble
Description
These smash chicken burgers combine ground chicken with Mediterranean herbs and spices, cooked hot for crispy caramelized edges. They’re topped with a creamy garlic yogurt sauce, crumbled feta, and fresh vegetables for a bright, tangy flavor. Great served in buns, pita, or lettuce wraps.
Time Required
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers
Ingredients
For the Smash Chicken Patties
500 g (1 lb) ground chicken
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
½ tsp paprika
½ tsp ground cumin
½ tsp salt
¼ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Creamy Garlic Yogurt Sauce
1 cup plain Greek yogurt
1 garlic clove, grated
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp olive oil
¼ tsp salt
1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (optional)
For Assembly
4 burger buns or pita bread
½ cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 cup lettuce or arugula
1 tomato, sliced
½ cucumber, sliced
Thinly sliced red onion (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Yogurt Sauce
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and herbs.
Refrigerate until ready to use for best flavor.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, oregano, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently until just combined.
Divide into 4 equal portions (do not form thick patties yet).
Step 3: Smash and Cook
Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat with olive oil.
Place a portion of chicken in the pan and press firmly with a spatula to flatten.
Cook 4–5 minutes until crispy and browned.
Flip and cook another 3–4 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 74°C / 165°F).
Step 4: Assemble Burgers
Lightly toast buns if desired.
Spread garlic yogurt sauce on the base.
Add lettuce, smash chicken patty, feta crumble, tomato, cucumber, and onion.
Drizzle more sauce on top and serve.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t overmix the chicken to keep patties tender.
Use high heat for crispy edges.
Chill the yogurt sauce for stronger flavor.
Add olives or roasted peppers for extra Mediterranean taste.
Nutritional Information (Per Burger — Approx.)
Calories: 420 kcal
Protein: 35 g
Carbohydrates: 28 g
Fat: 20 g
Fiber: 3 g
Sugar: 4 g
(Varies based on bun and toppings.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works equally well and provides a similar texture.
How do I make it low-carb?
Serve in lettuce wraps or skip the bun.
Can I bake the patties instead?
Yes — bake at 200°C (400°F) for 18–20 minutes, though you’ll lose the crispy smash texture.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Cooked patties keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I make the sauce dairy-free?
Use coconut yogurt or another plant-based yogurt alternative.