Healthy Grilled Greek Chicken Burgers: A Delicious Mediterranean Feast
Embark on a culinary journey to the Mediterranean with these unbelievably flavorful and healthy Grilled Greek Chicken Burgers. Crafted from lean ground chicken breast, each bite is bursting with authentic Greek tastes. Imagine succulent patties infused with the briny tang of feta cheese and Kalamata olives, the sweet and savory notes of sundried tomatoes, and the aromatic punch of fresh garlic and oregano. These unique burgers are lovingly tucked into soft pita bread, offering a lighter, healthier alternative to traditional buns, and perfectly complemented by a creamy, cooling dollop of homemade tzatziki.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a summer barbecue, celebrating Father’s Day with a special meal, or simply craving a taste of Greece year-round, these chicken feta burgers are incredibly versatile. They cook beautifully on an outdoor grill, a stovetop skillet, or even in an air fryer, making them a fantastic option for any season or kitchen setup. Inspired by my award-winning Mediterranean Chicken and Wild Rice Cups, this recipe is not only delicious but also Weight Watchers friendly. For the ultimate Greek experience, pair these burgers with my refreshing Greek Yogurt Tzatziki Sauce with fresh dill.
🍒Reader Review
“I made these last night, and I loved them. It was too hot outside to BBQ so I did them in a frying pan. I used a little bit of the oil from the sun-dried tomatoes. Delicious!” ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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🥘Ingredient Notes & Expert Tips for Perfection
Creating truly exceptional Greek chicken burgers starts with understanding each ingredient’s role. Here’s a detailed look at what you’ll need to bring these Mediterranean flavors to life:
- Ground Chicken Breast: Opt for lean ground chicken breast to keep these burgers light and healthy. If you can’t find pre-ground chicken breast, it’s incredibly easy to make your own at home using a food processor. This ensures you control the leanness and texture. Approximately 1.5 lbs, which is about six medium-sized chicken breasts, will yield eight generous patties. For a step-by-step guide on grinding your own chicken without a meat grinder, check out this helpful resource: How to grind chicken without a meat grinder.
- Breadcrumbs: Fine breadcrumbs are your best friend here, acting as a binder to help the patties hold their shape and preventing them from becoming too dense. You can easily buy them at any grocery store, or if you prefer a fresher option, quickly pulse some stale bread in your food processor.
- Feta Cheese: This quintessential Greek cheese adds a salty, tangy creaminess that is simply irresistible. I recommend using light feta to reduce calories and fat without sacrificing flavor. Its crumbly texture distributes beautifully throughout the burger mixture.
- Black Olives: For an authentic Mediterranean taste, Kalamata olives are a must. They are tangier, fruitier, and more flavorful than standard canned black olives. Their distinct taste is a hallmark of Greek cuisine and adds a wonderful depth to the burgers. Make sure to pit and chop them finely.
- Sundried Tomatoes in Oil: While rehydrated sundried tomatoes can work, those packed in oil in a jar provide a more robust, concentrated tomato flavor and extra moisture, which helps keep the chicken burgers juicy. Chop them finely to ensure even distribution of their intense flavor.
- Fresh Garlic: Three cloves of freshly minced garlic are essential for that pungent, aromatic kick that defines Greek cooking. Fresh is always best for maximum flavor, though alternatives can be used.
- Dried Oregano: This herb is the backbone of Greek seasoning. Half a teaspoon of dried oregano provides a warm, earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the other Mediterranean ingredients. If using fresh, double the quantity.
- Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance all the vibrant flavors. Adjust to your taste.
- Pita Bread Halves: Serving these burgers in pita bread is a traditional Greek touch and a fantastic, healthier (and lower carb/WW points) alternative to conventional burger buns. The soft, chewy texture of pita perfectly cradles the juicy burger and toppings.
- Tzatziki Sauce: No Greek burger is complete without a generous dollop of Tzatziki sauce. This creamy, garlicky, cucumber-yogurt sauce adds a refreshing coolness and a burst of flavor that ties everything together.
*Please refer to the recipe card below for a full, precise list of ingredients and quantities.
📖Variations & Customization for Your Perfect Burger
One of the joys of cooking is making a recipe your own. These Greek chicken burgers are incredibly adaptable, allowing for numerous variations and substitutions to suit your dietary needs or flavor preferences:
- Chicken Alternatives: If you’re looking for another lean protein option, ground turkey works wonderfully as a substitute for ground chicken breast. Ensure it’s lean to maintain the healthy profile.
- Pita Bread Options: You can use either white or whole wheat pita bread. For those following a Weight Watchers plan or looking for a lower-carb option, consider using low-carb pita bread (brands like Joseph’s offer great choices). If pita isn’t available or you prefer a classic burger experience, feel free to use a regular hamburger bun, a thin bun (President’s Choice thin buns are a good choice), or even lettuce wraps for an extra low-carb meal.
- Cooking Oil: While olive oil is my preferred choice for brushing the grill due to its Mediterranean roots and flavor, any high-smoke-point cooking oil you typically use for grilling will work.
- Garlic Options: Freshly minced garlic provides the best flavor, but for convenience, you can substitute it with jarred minced garlic or garlic powder. If using powder, remember it’s more concentrated, so use about ¼ teaspoon of powder for every clove of fresh garlic.
- Oregano Freshness: Fresh oregano offers a more vibrant, slightly peppery flavor. If you opt for fresh instead of dried, you’ll need to double the amount specified in the recipe to achieve a comparable intensity.
- Sundried Tomato Swaps: If sundried tomatoes aren’t on hand, roasted red peppers (from a jar, drained and chopped) can make a delicious, though slightly different, substitution. They will still add a sweet and savory depth, albeit with a milder flavor profile.
- Fillings & Toppings Galore: The beauty of these burgers lies in their customizable toppings! Beyond the classic tzatziki, red onion, tomatoes, and fresh mint, consider adding cucumber slices, crisp lettuce, a sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze. For an extra pop of flavor and crunch, try pickled red onions.
💡Top Tip for Flavor & Freshness
To ensure the freshest taste and best texture for your Greek chicken burgers, consider grinding your own chicken breasts! This gives you complete control over the lean-to-fat ratio and the grind consistency. If you don’t have a meat grinder attachment for your stand mixer, don’t worry – a food processor works just as effectively. Simply cut boneless, skinless chicken breasts into 1-inch pieces and pulse until coarsely ground. This small step can make a big difference in the quality and flavor of your burgers. For detailed instructions, refer to: How to grind chicken without a meat grinder.
🔪How to Make Delicious Greek Chicken Burgers
Making these Greek chicken burgers is a straightforward process, perfect for any home cook. Follow these simple steps for perfectly grilled patties:
Preparation is Key (Prep Time: 15 minutes)
Before you begin mixing, ensure your grill is ready to go. Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for a temperature around 400 degrees F (204 degrees C). Once heated, carefully oil the grill grates with your preferred cooking oil to prevent sticking.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground chicken, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, finely chopped sundried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, black olives, and breadcrumbs. These ingredients form the heart of your Greek flavors.

Gently but thoroughly stir all the ingredients together until they are well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher burgers. Just mix enough until everything is evenly distributed.

Divide the mixture into eight equal portions and gently shape each portion into a patty. Aim for an even thickness to ensure they cook uniformly. You can lightly wet your hands to prevent sticking, or use a burger press for perfectly uniform patties.

Carefully place the shaped patties onto the preheated and oiled grill grates. Close the lid to allow the heat to circulate and cook the burgers evenly. Grill for approximately 5 minutes on one side.

Flip the patties to the other side, close the lid again, and continue grilling for another 5 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F (74 degrees C) as measured with a reliable meat thermometer. This ensures they are cooked through and juicy, not dry.

Once cooked to perfection, remove the grilled Greek chicken burgers from the grill. Let them rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the juices to redistribute, ensuring a more tender and flavorful bite.

To serve, open up your pita bread halves and generously garnish your Greek chicken burgers with creamy Tzatziki sauce, thinly sliced red onion, diced fresh tomatoes, and a scattering of fresh mint leaves. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice over the chicken adds a bright, zesty finish that truly elevates the flavors. Feel free to use any other fillings or fresh herbs you prefer!
Hint: For optimal grilling and easy cleanup, always allow your outdoor grill to run for 4-5 minutes after cooking to burn off any food remnants. Then, use a high-quality grill brush, like this bristle-free grill brush (affiliate link), to clean the grates thoroughly. A clean grill prevents sticking and ensures perfect grill marks every time.
🥗 What to Serve with Your Greek Chicken Burgers (with Feta)
These flavorful Greek chicken burgers with feta are incredibly versatile and pair beautifully with a variety of side dishes, especially those with a complementary Mediterranean flair. Here are some fantastic options to create a complete and delicious meal:
- Easy Greek Rice with Lemon: A light and zesty rice pilaf seasoned with lemon juice and fresh herbs is a classic pairing that offers a refreshing contrast to the rich burger flavors. Check out my recipe for Easy Greek Rice with Lemon.
- Greek-Style Roasted Potatoes: Crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these potatoes are typically roasted with lemon, garlic, and oregano, making them a hearty and satisfying side that perfectly echoes the burger’s flavors. Find the recipe here: Greek-style roasted Potatoes.
- Greek Pasta Salad: A vibrant pasta salad, like the one shown below, loaded with fresh vegetables, olives, feta, and a tangy dressing, adds a delightful texture and coolness. It’s perfect for a summer spread! My recipe for Greek Pasta Salad is a crowd-pleaser.
- Healthy Tzatziki Sauce: Of course, a generous serving of homemade Healthy Tzatziki sauce is non-negotiable! It acts as both a condiment for the burger and a wonderful dip for any accompanying vegetables or pita bread.
- Fresh Greek Salad: A simple yet elegant Greek salad featuring crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, red onion, Kalamata olives, and more feta, all tossed in a light vinaigrette, provides a fresh, crunchy counterpoint.
- Grilled Vegetables: Skewers of bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes, lightly brushed with olive oil and grilled alongside your burgers, make for an effortless and healthy side.

🍽Essential Equipment for Grilling Success
Having the right tools can make all the difference in preparing these Greek chicken burgers. Here’s a list of recommended equipment:
- Grill: The star of the show! You can use an outdoor BBQ grill for that authentic smoky flavor, an indoor grill pan for stovetop cooking, or even a simple frying pan or skillet. For a quick and easy option, an air fryer also works wonderfully.
- Large Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all the burger ingredients thoroughly and efficiently.
- Spatula or Tongs: For flipping the burgers safely and effectively on the grill or pan.
- Instant-Read Meat Thermometer: This is a crucial tool for ensuring your chicken burgers are cooked safely and perfectly without drying them out. Chicken is notoriously easy to overcook, so an instant-read thermometer (affiliate link) is your best friend for achieving that juicy 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
- Food Processor (Optional but Recommended): Useful if you plan to grind your own chicken breast or make your own breadcrumbs.
- Burger Press (Optional): Helps create uniformly sized and shaped patties, which cook more evenly.

🌡️Storage & Make-Ahead Tips
These Greek chicken burgers are perfect for meal prepping and storing, making healthy eating even easier. Here’s how to handle them for maximum freshness and convenience:
- Refrigeration (Cooked Burgers): Cooked Greek-style chicken burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain freshness, it’s best to store any toppings (like tzatziki, chopped tomatoes, and onions) separately. The pita bread can be kept in a plastic bag at room temperature.
- Freezing (Cooked or Uncooked Burgers):
- Cooked Burgers: Allow cooked burgers to cool completely. Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or airtight container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on a skillet, in the oven, or on the grill until heated through.
- Uncooked Patties: For easy meal prep, you can form the patties and freeze them before cooking. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid (about 1-2 hours). Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or airtight container, separated by parchment paper to prevent sticking. They will keep for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, you can grill them directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time, or thaw them in the refrigerator first.
- Reheating: Reheat cooked burgers gently to avoid drying them out. A quick warm-up in a skillet over medium heat, in a preheated oven (around 350°F/175°C for 10-15 minutes), or back on the grill until warm is ideal.
👪 Serving Size & Adjustments
This recipe is designed to yield 8 juicy and satisfying Greek chicken burgers, making it ideal for family dinners or entertaining friends. However, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your needs, whether you’re cooking for one or a crowd:
- Adjusting Quantities: Most recipe cards offer a convenient feature that allows you to click on the serving number and select your desired number of servings. The ingredient quantities will then automatically adjust, taking the guesswork out of scaling the recipe.
- Meal Planning: Making a full batch of 8 burgers is excellent for meal planning. Enjoy some fresh, and then store the rest for quick and easy lunches or dinners throughout the week (refer to the storage section above for best practices).
- Portion Control: With 8 burgers per batch, it’s easy to manage portions and cater to different appetites.
🔢Weight Watchers Points
For those tracking their intake, these Greek chicken burgers are a fantastic Weight Watchers-friendly option:
This recipe, when made with regular pita bread and light feta cheese (excluding tzatziki sauce), comes in at a lean 5 Weight Watchers points per burger.
To further reduce the points, you can make a couple of simple adjustments:
- If you opt for a low-carb pita bread (such as Joseph’s brand) and fat-free feta cheese, each burger will be only 4 points.
- My healthy tzatziki sauce is also very low in points, adding just 1 Weight Watchers point per 2 tablespoons. This means you can enjoy a generous serving of sauce without significantly impacting your daily points.
Enjoy a flavorful meal that aligns with your health goals!

✅Expert Recipe Tips for the Juiciest Burgers
Achieving the perfect grilled Greek chicken burger involves a few key techniques. Follow these expert tips for juicy, flavorful results every time:
- Proper Internal Temperature: For the best and safest results, always cook ground chicken to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the patty to verify doneness. This ensures they are cooked thoroughly without becoming dry. The goal is a juicy, tender burger.
- Master Grill Temperature: Don’t underestimate the importance of a properly preheated grill. Ensure your grill reaches a steady medium heat, approximately 400°F (204°C), before placing the patties. A hot grill creates a beautiful sear on the outside, locking in the juices and flavor.
- Uniform Patties are Key: For even cooking, try to make your patties uniform in size and thickness. Lightly wet your hands before shaping the mixture to prevent sticking, or use a burger press for consistent results. A small indentation in the center of each patty can also help prevent them from bulging in the middle during cooking.
- Chill Patties Before Grilling: If time allows, refrigerate your shaped patties for 15-30 minutes before grilling. This brief chill helps them firm up, maintaining their shape better on the hot grill and allowing the flavors to meld further.
- The Power of an Instant-Read Thermometer: As mentioned, ground chicken must reach 165°F (74°C). An instant-read thermometer is your most reliable tool for this, preventing both undercooking and the common mistake of overcooking.
- Rest for Juiciness: Once your burgers are off the grill, allow them to rest for 2-3 minutes. This crucial step allows the internal juices to redistribute throughout the patty, resulting in a more succulent and flavorful burger.
- Customize Your Topping Bar: Elevate your burger experience by setting up a fun and interactive topping bar! Beyond the traditional tzatziki, red onion, and tomato, consider offering crumbled feta (if not already mixed in), thin cucumber ribbons, tangy pickled red onions, fresh dill, or a drizzle of sweet balsamic glaze. This allows everyone to build their perfect burger.
❔ Recipe FAQs: Your Questions Answered
Yes, chicken burgers, especially those made with lean chicken breast, are generally considered a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. They typically contain less saturated fat and calories. This Greek chicken burger recipe, packed with fresh ingredients and lean protein, is a fantastic option for a health-conscious meal.
Absolutely! For convenience, you can prepare the raw burger patties up to 24 hours in advance. Simply form them, cover them tightly with plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container, and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. If you want to cook them ahead, the cooked burgers will remain delicious for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Yes, grilling isn’t the only way to enjoy these delicious burgers! You can bake them on a parchment-lined baking sheet in an oven preheated to 400°F (204°C) for approximately 20 minutes, flipping them halfway through (at the 10-minute mark). Always ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can cook them in an air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for about 3 ½ to 4 minutes per side, or in a frying pan over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Sticking usually happens if the grill isn’t hot enough or hasn’t been properly oiled. Ensure your grill is fully preheated to the recommended temperature and that the grates are thoroughly brushed with cooking oil before placing the patties. Also, resist the urge to flip them too early; let them sear for the full recommended time on one side to develop a crust and release naturally before attempting to turn them.
Yes, easily! Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Ensure all other ingredients (like feta and olives) are naturally gluten-free. Serve them in gluten-free pita bread or lettuce wraps to complete your gluten-free meal.
To make these burgers dairy-free, you would need to omit the feta cheese. You could try a dairy-free feta alternative, or replace the salty tang with an extra sprinkle of capers or a bit more sun-dried tomato. For the tzatziki sauce, use a dairy-free plain Greek-style yogurt alternative.
So, if you’re seeking a delicious, healthy, and unique twist on burger night, look no further! This Greek-style chicken burger recipe is a true Mediterranean delight. Each bite is a celebration of vibrant Greek flavors, all while providing a lean and wholesome meal. It’s the perfect way to bring the taste of the Greek islands right to your plate, any time of the year!
And if you’re eager for more fantastic chicken burger ideas, you’ll absolutely love my classic Chicken Breast Burger Recipe too!
📋More Delicious Greek Food Recipes
- Chicken Souvlaki Wrap
- Greek Pasta Toss
- Grilled Greek Ribs
- Greek Vegetarian Phyllo Dough Pizza
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📋 Grilled Greek Chicken Burger Recipe
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Equipment
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BBQ / Outdoor Grill
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Food Processor
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Instant-Read Thermometer
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs lean ground chicken breast * about 6 medium sized chicken breasts, ground or finely chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup feta cheese (light option recommended)
- ⅔ cup black olives * Kalamata olives recommended (e.g., Mezzetta brand), pitted and chopped
- ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 pita bread halves
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ⅛ teaspoon salt and pepper
Fillings & Toppings
- tzatziki sauce
- tomato, diced
- red onion, sliced
- fresh mint leaves
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Instructions
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Prep the Grill: Preheat your grill to a medium heat (around 400 degrees F / 204 degrees C). Once hot, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
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Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the lean ground chicken, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, minced garlic, finely chopped sundried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, black olives, and breadcrumbs.1.5 lbs lean ground chicken breast, 1 cup breadcrumbs, 1 cup feta cheese (I use light), ⅔ cup black olives, ⅓ cup sundried tomatoes in oil, drained and finely chopped, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, ⅛ teaspoon salt and pepper, 3 cloves garlic, minced
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Mix Thoroughly: Stir the mixture gently until all ingredients are well combined and evenly distributed. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
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Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a firm, uniform patty. Lightly wet your hands or use a burger press for best results.
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Grill First Side: Place the patties carefully onto the oiled grill grates. Close the lid and grill for approximately 5 minutes until a nice sear has formed.
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Flip and Finish: Flip the patties, close the lid again, and continue to grill for another 5 minutes, or until an instant-read meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part reads 165 degrees F (74 degrees C).
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Rest and Serve: Remove the cooked burgers from the grill and let them rest for 2-3 minutes. Serve them immediately in pita bread halves, generously garnished with tzatziki, diced tomatoes, sliced red onions, fresh mint leaves, and a squeeze of lemon juice. Enjoy!6 pita bread halves, tzatziki sauce, tomato, diced, red onion, sliced, fresh mint leaves, Lemon wedges
Notes
- Sear the outside. For the best results, cook to an internal temperature of 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Using an instant-read thermometer is the best way to check for doneness, ensuring they’re cooked safely without drying them out. They should still be juicy.
- Grill temperature matters: Make sure your grill is properly preheated to medium (about 400°F/204°C). A hot grill sears the outside and keeps the inside juicy.
- Use a burger press or wet hands: To keep patties uniform and prevent sticking, lightly wet your hands before shaping or use a burger press for evenly sized patties.
- Chill patties before grilling: If time allows, refrigerate the shaped patties for 15-30 minutes. This helps them hold their shape and improves flavor melding.
- Test doneness with a thermometer: Ground chicken should always be cooked to an internal temp of 165°F (74°C).
- Let them rest: Allow the burgers to rest for 2-3 minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute for a more flavorful bite.
- Customize the toppings: Offer a topping bar for a fun DIY meal—try crumbled feta, cucumber ribbons, pickled red onions, fresh dill, or even a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
Storage:
Store cooked Greek-style chicken burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store toppings and pita bread separately.
These burgers (cooked or uncooked patties) can be frozen for up to 3 months in an airtight container for future enjoyment.
Loosely adapted from Greek Lamb Burgers – “All Fired Up” Cookbook, pg. 59