Easy Greek Chickpea Patties (Healthy Mediterranean Dinner Idea)

These easy Greek chickpea patties are a healthy Mediterranean dinner idea: crispy, protein-packed, and perfect for a quick meatless meal.

For more patties recipes, check out our quick lentil patties, Greek zucchini patties, feta and corn fritters, and homemade falafel.

Find complete ingredient list, quantities, and substitutions in the recipe box at the bottom of the page.

• Chickpeas: Canned chickpeas make this recipe quick and easy. You can also use home-cooked dried chickpeas for a richer crispy chickpea cake.
• Onion: A yellow or white onion works best, but red onion or shallots add a sweeter note. Pre-chopped frozen onions are a great shortcut on busy nights.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic brings out the Mediterranean flavor. If you’re out, use garlic powder or roasted garlic for a milder taste.
• Lemon zest: Adds brightness and balances the hearty chickpeas. Lime zest or even a splash of orange zest can be used for a different citrus spin.
• Paprika: Smoked paprika adds depth, while sweet paprika keeps it mild. For spice lovers, swap in cayenne, chili powder, or even ground cumin.
• Dried oregano: A classic in Greek recipes.
• Fresh herbs: Parsley is classic, but dill gives a stronger Greek-inspired touch, and cilantro adds freshness. You can also mix in mint or basil for a twist.
• Flour: All-purpose binds the patties well. Substitute whole wheat flour for extra fiber or gluten-free flour if needed.
• Cheese: Parmesan adds nuttiness, while feta gives a salty punch and makes them taste more like a Greek vegetarian recipe. For dairy-free, try nutritional yeast.
• Water: Just enough to bring the mix together. Vegetable broth works too—we usually dissolve bouillon powder in water, which makes groceries lighter and lasts for weeks.

Add the chickpeas, onion, garlic, lemon zest, paprika, herbs, flour, cheese, water, salt, and pepper to a large mixing bowl. Use a fork or potato masher to coarsely mash everything together.

Note: The mixture should be chunky but hold its shape. If it feels too dry, add a splash of water until it sticks. This is the base for your healthy chickpea fritters.

Step 2 – Shape the Patties

With clean hands, shape the mixture into about 12 small patties. Press them firmly so they don’t fall apart while cooking. Place them on a tray or plate while you heat up the oven, skillet, or air fryer.

Pan-Fry (recommended): Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a non-stick skillet. Cook patties for 3 minutes per side, turning carefully until crisp and golden.

Oven-Bake: Place patties on a lined baking sheet, brush with olive oil, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping once, until golden brown.

Air-Fry: Lightly brush the air fryer basket with oil. Arrange patties in one layer, brush tops with olive oil, and air fry at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes.

Step 4 – Serve and Enjoy

Arrange the patties on a serving platter. Add a sprinkle of fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon, and tzatziki sauce on the side. These crispy chickpea cakes are delicious as a main course in pita bread, over salad, or as a simple appetizer.

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