Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti)

Looking for a healthy, hearty meal? Try these Chicken and Buckwheat Patties, a delicious, nutritious option made with tender chicken breasts, cooked buckwheat, and fresh vegetables like spinach and broccoli. Packed with protein and fiber, these chicken patties are easy to make, versatile, and perfect for meal prep or a family dinner. Serve them with a side of roasted vegetables or rice for a complete meal. Whether you need a quick low-carb dinner or a satisfying lunch, these flavorful patties will become a staple in your recipe rotation. Perfect for those seeking gluten-free or healthy chicken recipes!

Ingredients

for Patties:

• 2 cups cooked buckwheat (1 cup raw buckwheat = 2 cups cooked)
• 2 chicken breasts
• 5 oz fresh spinach
• 1/2 medium head of broccoli
• 1 small onion
• 1 large egg
• 1 Tbsp sour cream or mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup plain bread crumbs (Panko preferred)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Breading & Sautéing:

• 1 cup Italian bread crumbs (for coating)
• Oil for sautéing (extra light olive oil recommended)

Instructions:

1. Begin by cutting the broccoli into florets and pulsing in a food processor until finely chopped. Transfer the chopped broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
2. Heat 1 Tbsp of oil in a skillet and sauté the spinach until soft, then add it to the same bowl.
3. In a food processor (or using a meat grinder), grind the cooked buckwheat and chicken breasts together, then add to the mixing bowl.
4. Finely chop or mince the onion (a food processor works well for this) and add it to the bowl.
5. Add 1/4 cup Panko bread crumbs, 1 egg, and 1 Tbsp sour cream or mayonnaise to the mixture. Season with salt and pepper (about 1/2 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper, or to taste).
6. Thoroughly mix the ingredients until combined.
7. Form the mixture into oval-shaped patties, then dip each one in Italian bread crumbs to coat.
8. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the patties, flipping 4-5 times, until they are golden brown and cooked through.

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Tips

• Freshness of Ingredients: Make sure to use fresh spinach and high-quality chicken breasts for the best flavor.
• Uniform Patties: To ensure even cooking, make sure your patties are of uniform size and thickness.
• Non-stick Skillet: Using a non-stick skillet can help prevent the patties from sticking and allow for easier flipping.

Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with cooked lentils or chickpeas for a vegetarian-friendly alternative.
• Spices and Herbs: Experiment with spices like garlic powder, paprika, or parsley for extra flavor.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread crumbs for those with gluten sensitivities.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the mixture.

What can I serve with these patties?
These patties pair wonderfully with a side of roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or over rice for a complete meal.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a dollop of sour cream or a tangy yogurt-based sauce.
• Pair with a green salad or steamed vegetables for a healthy, balanced meal.
• Enjoy as a filling for wraps or sandwiches, topped with your favorite condiments.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These Chicken and Buckwheat Patties are a delicious, healthy, and satisfying meal. Packed with protein and fiber, they make a great alternative to traditional meatballs or burgers. The combination of buckwheat and chicken provides a hearty texture, while the addition of spinach and broccoli boosts the nutritional value. These patties are perfect for meal prep, easy to make, and will surely become a family favorite!