Grilled Za'atar Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki Recipe

The first time I made these Grilled Za’atar Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki, I couldn’t believe how something so simple could taste so delicious. The rich, tangy flavors of za’atar in the patties combined perfectly with the creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce. Pairing them with fresh veggies and toasted buns made them a hit with my family.

What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is, making it perfect for summer BBQs or a laid-back weeknight dinner. These burgers are now one of my go-to recipes when I want to grill something healthy and flavorful.

Credit: healthyseasonalrecipes

Ingredients

Here are some ingredients:

1 pound ground chicken
4 hamburger buns (whole-grain or gluten-free if preferred)
1½ teaspoons kosher salt, divided
½ teaspoon ground black pepper
2 teaspoons za’atar seasoning

For the tzatziki sauce:

½ cup plain Greek yogurt (whole-milk preferred)
1 small clove garlic, grated
2 teaspoons red wine vinegar
½ cucumber, grated and drained
2 tablespoons fresh mint, chopped

For the toppings:

4 small lettuce leaves
4 thin slices of ripe tomato
4 red onion rings

Note: This recipe serves 4.

Variations

Want to adapt these burgers to different preferences or dietary needs? Here are some creative ways you can switch things up.

Low-Carb Option: Replace the bun with large lettuce leaves for a light and fresh lettuce wrap.
No Mint? No Problem: Use parsley or cilantro as a substitute in the tzatziki.
Add a Twist: Spice things up with a dash of chili flakes in the patties.
Cheesy Goodness: Add a slice of halloumi or feta cheese to each burger for an extra punch of flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground chicken with a plant-based protein or chickpea patties.

You can also enjoy similar recipes like Zaatar Chicken with Vegetables for more Middle Eastern-inspired dishes.

Cooking Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Total Time: 33 minutes

Equipment You Need

Grill or grill pan: For cooking the burgers to perfection.
Mixing bowl: To mix the chicken patty ingredients and prepare the tzatziki.
Box grater: For grating the cucumber.
Knife and cutting board: For chopping toppings and other ingredients.
Tongs: For flipping the patties on the grill without breaking them.

How to Make Grilled Za’atar Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki?

Here are the steps to follow: marinate ground chicken with zaatar, garlic, and lemon juice to infuse it with bold Middle Eastern flavor.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats, place the ground chicken in a mixing bowl. Shape the chicken mixture into four equal-sized patties, about 3 inches wide and ¾ inch thick. Sprinkle both sides of each patty with kosher salt, black pepper, and za’atar seasoning. The seasoning not only enhances the flavor but also gives the burgers a fun twist. Keep your hands lightly damp while shaping the patties to avoid sticking.

Step 2: Grill the Burgers

Lightly oil the grill grates to keep the patties from sticking. Place the patties on the grill and cook for about 3 to 4 minutes on each side, ensuring they’re cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F. During the last minute on the grill, toast your hamburger buns for added texture and flavor. Cooking the burgers this way ensures they stay juicy inside with a slightly crisp outside.

Step 3: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

While the burgers are grilling, prepare the tzatziki. Start by mixing Greek yogurt, grated garlic, red wine vinegar, and a pinch of kosher salt in a bowl. Grate the cucumber using a box grater, then press it through a fine-mesh sieve to remove excess liquid. Stir the cucumber and chopped mint into the yogurt mixture. This refreshingly creamy sauce perfectly balances the earthy flavor of the za’atar burgers.

Step 4: Assemble the Burgers

Now comes the fun part! Start by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer the grilled chicken patty on top, followed by a generous spoonful of tzatziki sauce, a slice of ripe tomato, and a ring of red onion. Top with the remaining bun and serve immediately. These burgers radiate flavor, making them irresistibly good!

Credit: healthyseasonalrecipes

Why You’ll Love This Recipe?

These Grilled Za’atar Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki are bound to win you over. Here’s why you’ll love them!

Healthy Ingredients: High in protein and made with fresh, wholesome components.
Quick and Easy: You can whip these up in under 35 minutes.
Unique Flavors: The za’atar seasoning and creamy minty tzatziki create a beautiful Middle Eastern fusion.
Customizable: Adaptable to suit various diets and preferences.

For more inspiration, check out these Zaatar Chicken Salad ideas that are equally versatile and delicious.

How to Serve Grilled Za’atar Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki?

These burgers are a fantastic addition to any meal spread. Serve them with a fresh Mediterranean grain salad or roasted lemon-garlic potatoes for a complete Middle Eastern-inspired meal. For a light and healthy side, consider pairing these burgers with a tabbouleh salad or zesty quinoa salad. Garnish with extra mint leaves or sprinkle more za’atar over the buns for an impressive presentation that’s sure to wow your guests.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a snapshot of the nutritional value you get per serving:

Calories: 310
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 22g
Fat: 11g

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prepping or saving leftovers. You can shape and season the patties ahead of time, storing them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Place parchment paper between patties to prevent sticking. Similarly, the tzatziki can be prepared a day or two in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Cooked burgers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, place in a skillet over medium heat or warm on a grill until heated through. Do note that freezing the tzatziki is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the sauce.

Tips for Making the Recipe

After trying this recipe, I’ve picked up some great tips that make this dish shine even more!

Use slightly damp hands to shape the patties to avoid stickiness.
Grill the buns for a hint of extra flavor and texture.
Squeeze out all excess liquid from the cucumber to keep the tzatziki from becoming watery.
Allow the patties to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling to lock in the juices.

Are Grilled Chicken Burgers Healthy?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken is a lean and protein-packed option, perfect for a nutritious meal. These patties, seasoned with za’atar, bring in additional health benefits, thanks to the antioxidants in the spice blend. Pairing these burgers with whole-grain buns and fresh vegetables makes them a balanced dish, while the yogurt-based tzatziki keeps it lighter than traditional mayonnaise.

These Grilled Za’atar Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki are perfect if you’re seeking comfort food with a healthy twist. Whether you’re grilling for a party or preparing a quick family dinner, this recipe promises flavor, ease, and satisfaction. Enjoy every bite of these juicy, extraordinary burgers! If you’re a fan of hearty meals, you might also enjoy exploring some Steak Recipes for your next grilling session.

Grilled Za’atar Chicken Burgers with Tzatziki Recipe