Mediterranean Chicken Sliders
Highlighted under: Culinary Journey Recipes
I can't get enough of these Mediterranean Chicken Sliders! The fusion of flavors from the spices and herbs creates a wonderful harmony with the juicy grilled chicken. I love how easy they are to prepare, making them perfect for any gathering. Whether for a weekend barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, they never fail to impress. The freshness of the toppings—like tzatziki and cucumbers—adds a delightful crunch and coolness that rounds out the dish beautifully. Trust me, once you try these sliders, you’ll want to make them again and again!
When I first made these Mediterranean Chicken Sliders, I was amazed at how a few simple ingredients could create such a flavorful dish. I marinated the chicken in olive oil, lemon juice, and a medley of spices, allowing it to soak up all those wonderful flavors. Grilling the chicken adds an extra smoky depth that is hard to resist.
Serving them on warm slider buns with my homemade tzatziki sauce completely elevated the experience. I found that prepping everything in advance—like slicing veggies and making the sauce—makes dinner prep a breeze. This way, I could spend more time enjoying the flavors and the company of my friends and family!
Why You'll Love These Sliders
- Grilled to perfection with a blend of Mediterranean spices
- Fresh toppings that add a burst of flavor and crunch
- Quick to make, ideal for busy weeknights or entertaining
Essential Techniques for Perfectly Cooked Sliders
To ensure your chicken sliders are juicy and flavorful, it’s important to avoid overmixing the chicken mixture. Overworking can lead to dense patties. Mix until just combined, forming patties that are slightly larger than the buns to account for shrinking during cooking. Aim for about 1/2-inch thickness for even cooking and optimal texture. You can also use a burger press to achieve consistent shapes and sizes, which helps cook them evenly.
When grilling your patties, be sure to preheat the grill or skillet until it's hot enough for a good sear—about 400°F. This helps develop a nice crust on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. If you find the sliders are sticking, lightly oil the grill grates or skillet before adding the patties. Use a spatula to gently release the patties once they're nicely browned on one side, which should take about 5-6 minutes.
Flavor Boosters and Customization
While feta cheese adds a salty tang, feel free to experiment with different cheeses if you want to switch things up. Cheddar or goat cheese could provide a nice variation in flavor, though they will alter the classic Mediterranean taste. Use a sharp knife to finely chop any herbs you decide to include, as fresh herbs can significantly elevate the slider's taste. Don't hesitate to throw in some chopped sun-dried tomatoes for an Italian flair, or jalapeños for a kick.
For the tzatziki sauce, using full-fat Greek yogurt ensures a creamier texture and richer flavor. However, if you're looking to lighten the dish, you can substitute half of the yogurt with low-fat options. Adding a splash of vinegar can also help balance flavors. If you’re short on time, you can purchase pre-made tzatziki at the store, just be sure to check for a brand that emphasizes fresh ingredients.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients for a delicious meal:
For the Sliders
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slider buns
- 1 cup mixed greens
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, to taste
Enjoy assembling your sliders with these bright and flavorful ingredients!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Chicken Sliders:
Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into slider patties.
Cook the Patties
Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the slider patties for 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
Make the Tzatziki Sauce
In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, and salt. Stir well to mix and set aside.
Assemble the Sliders
On each slider bun, place a patty, top with tzatziki sauce, mixed greens, and any other desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Pair these sliders with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Pro Tips
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture. You can also grill some bell peppers alongside the sliders for extra flavor.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
The sliders can be prepared in advance, making them a fantastic option for meal prep. Form the chicken patties and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before grilling. If you want to make a larger batch, you can freeze uncooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be cooked directly from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.
For the tzatziki sauce, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, so feel free to make it ahead of time. Just give it a good stir before serving, as liquid may separate. Keep it covered in an airtight container to maintain freshness. This is also a great topping for other dishes like grilled meats or roasted vegetables!
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Mediterranean Chicken Sliders with a side of sweet potato fries or a light cucumber salad to complement the fresh flavors. You can also set up a slider bar, allowing guests to customize their toppings with options like pickled red onions, olives, or roasted red peppers. Consider serving with a light drizzle of balsamic glaze to enhance the overall flavor profile.
If you want to add some extra heat, a drizzle of harissa or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes in the tzatziki sauce can add a flavorful kick. Additionally, these sliders pair beautifully with a chilled glass of white wine or a refreshing iced tea, perfect for summer gatherings.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or even lamb would work beautifully for these sliders.
→ Can I make the patties in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
→ How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
→ What sides pair well with these sliders?
Serve with a simple Greek salad, sweet potato fries, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Mediterranean Chicken Sliders
I can't get enough of these Mediterranean Chicken Sliders! The fusion of flavors from the spices and herbs creates a wonderful harmony with the juicy grilled chicken. I love how easy they are to prepare, making them perfect for any gathering. Whether for a weekend barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, they never fail to impress. The freshness of the toppings—like tzatziki and cucumbers—adds a delightful crunch and coolness that rounds out the dish beautifully. Trust me, once you try these sliders, you’ll want to make them again and again!
What You'll Need
For the Sliders
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 slider buns
- 1 cup mixed greens
For the Tzatziki Sauce
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1/2 cucumber, grated
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt, to taste
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, feta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined and form into slider patties.
Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the slider patties for 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
In a separate bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, lemon juice, minced garlic, dill, and salt. Stir well to mix and set aside.
On each slider bun, place a patty, top with tzatziki sauce, mixed greens, and any other desired toppings. Serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- For a spicier kick, add crushed red pepper flakes to the chicken mixture. You can also grill some bell peppers alongside the sliders for extra flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
- Sodium: 580mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 2g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 30g