If you’re craving a meal that’s hearty, wholesome, and downright delicious, you’ve got to try this Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe. These patties bring together the nutty, earthy goodness of buckwheat with tender chicken, fresh veggies, and just the right amount of seasoning—resulting in a dish that’s satisfying, nutritious, and perfect for any occasion. They’re crispy on the outside, wonderfully moist inside, and baked with a love for simple, flavorful eats that everyone will adore. Trust me, this recipe will quickly become one of your favorites to whip up!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients make all the difference when preparing Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe. Each component plays its part in building incredible texture, subtle flavor layers, and that beautiful golden color.
- 2 cups cooked buckwheat: Provides a nutty base and hearty texture to the patties, so be sure to cook it fluffily.
- 2 chicken breasts: Lean and tender protein that balances perfectly with the buckwheat for satisfying bites.
- 5 oz fresh spinach: Adds a vibrant green color and a boost of nutrients without overpowering the flavor.
- 1/2 medium head of broccoli: Finely chopped to sneak in extra crunch and fiber for a well-rounded patty.
- 1 small onion: Gives a subtle sweetness and aroma to awaken the senses as you cook.
- 1 large egg: Acts as the perfect binder holding all ingredients together beautifully.
- 1 Tbsp of Sour Cream or Mayo: Introduces moisture and a slight tang, enhancing tenderness and depth.
- 1/4 cup Plain Bread Crumbs (Panko preferred): Adds structure and keeps the patties from falling apart while staying light.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the natural flavors in the patties.
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs: Perfect for coating the patties to create that irresistible golden, crispy crust.
- Oil to sauté: Extra light olive oil works wonders for cooking without overpowering the patty’s delicate flavors.
How to Make Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe
Step 1: Prep the broccoli
Start by cutting the broccoli into florets, then pulse them in a food processor until finely chopped. This ensures that the broccoli blends seamlessly into the patties, giving each bite a subtle crunch without large chunks. Transfer the chopped broccoli to a large mixing bowl where it will mingle with the other ingredients later.
Step 2: Sauté the spinach
Next, heat a tablespoon of oil in a skillet over medium heat and quickly sauté the fresh spinach until it wilts but still retains its vibrant green color—just a few minutes will do. This takes the edge off its natural bitterness and makes it tender. Add the sautéed spinach to the same mixing bowl with the broccoli.
Step 3: Grind the buckwheat and chicken
Using a food processor or a meat grinder, pulse the cooked buckwheat and chicken breasts together until you have a coarsely ground mixture. This blend forms the heart of your Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe, offering a perfect harmony between the nutty grain and tender chicken. Transfer this mixture right into your bowl with the greens.
Step 4: Combine onion, egg, and binders
Finely dice or mince the onion—using a food processor here can save time and get an even texture. Add the onion to your bowl, along with the plain (Panko) bread crumbs, the egg, sour cream or mayo, and season everything generously with salt and pepper. Now it’s time for a thorough mix—use your hands or a sturdy spoon to blend everything evenly until you get a beautifully combined, sticky mixture ready to be shaped.
Step 5: Form and cook the patties
Shape the mixture into oval-shaped patties—comfort food size that’s easy to hold and eat. Then coat each patty on both sides with the Italian bread crumbs for a crisp outer shell. Heat a skillet with some oil over medium heat and cook the patties, flipping them 4 to 5 times carefully until they’re cooked through and golden on all sides. This finishing step locks in moisture and creates that satisfying crunch everyone loves in the Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe.
How to Serve Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about these patties is how well they welcome fresh, simple garnishes that brighten up every bite. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or dill really highlights the earthy herbs and veggies within. A dollop of sour cream or a drizzle of garlic yogurt makes the patties even more indulgent and comforting.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe with sides that complement the wholesome feel. Steamed or roasted seasonal vegetables add freshness, while a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness beautifully. For a heartier meal, mashed potatoes or a light pilaf work wonderfully to soak up any extra sauce or toppings.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to switch things up? Serve the patties inside warm pita breads with fresh veggies and a tangy sauce for an easy handheld meal. Or lay them over a bed of mixed grains and drizzle with a homemade tomato salsa for a vibrant, colorful plate. These patties are versatile enough to become the star of casual lunches or festive dinners, so have fun experimenting!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe leftovers keep really well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes them a convenient grab-and-go option for busy lunches or quick dinners throughout the week without sacrificing flavor or texture.
Freezing
If you want to stash some for future meals, these patties freeze beautifully. Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until firm, then transfer to freezer bags or containers. They’ll keep for up to two months without losing their delicious taste or moisture.
Reheating
To reheat, the best option is to gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally to restore that crisp exterior. You can also heat them in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the patties from getting soggy.
FAQs
Can I use different grains instead of buckwheat?
Absolutely! While buckwheat adds a unique nutty flavor and texture, you can substitute cooked quinoa, millet, or even rice if you prefer. Each grain will slightly alter the taste but keep the patties just as delicious.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
You can try making vegetarian patties by replacing chicken with cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas. Keep the spinach and broccoli, and use flaxseed or a chia egg as a binder for a satisfying meatless version.
What oil works best for cooking these patties?
Extra light olive oil is a great choice because it has a mild flavor and a relatively high smoke point. However, you can also use vegetable oil, avocado oil, or even clarified butter to achieve a nice golden crust.
Can I bake these patties instead of frying?
Yes! For a lighter option, place the patties on a greased or parchment-lined baking sheet and bake at 375°F for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and cooked through.
Do these patties work well for meal prep?
Definitely! The Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe is perfect for meal prep since they store well and reheat beautifully. Preparing a batch in advance means you’ll have a wholesome meal ready in minutes throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into these homemade Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe. They strike the perfect balance between nutritious and indulgent, all while bringing vibrant colors and flavors to your table. Whether you’re feeding family or looking for a reliable meal prep idea, these patties will not disappoint. Give this recipe a try and watch it quickly become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
Print
Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6-8 patties
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Eastern European
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These Chicken and Buckwheat Patties (Kotleti) combine tender ground chicken with nutritious buckwheat, fresh spinach, broccoli, and aromatic onion for a wholesome, flavorful dish. Coated in Italian bread crumbs and pan-fried to a golden brown, these patties are perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner and offer a delightfully textured and tasty meal that is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked buckwheat (1 cup raw buckwheat equals about 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 (preferably Panko)
- Salt and pepper to taste (approximately 1/2 tsp salt, 1/4 tsp pepper)
For Coating and Cooking
- 1 cup Italian bread crumbs (to coat finished patties)
- Oil for sautéing (extra light olive oil recommended)
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli: Cut the broccoli into florets and pulse them in a food processor until finely chopped. Transfer the chopped broccoli to a large mixing bowl.
- Sauté the spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a hot skillet and sauté the fresh spinach for a few minutes just until it softens. Add the cooked spinach to the same mixing bowl with the broccoli.
- Combine buckwheat and chicken: Using a food processor or meat grinder, grind the cooked buckwheat together with the chicken breasts. Transfer this mixture to the mixing bowl containing broccoli and spinach.
- Prepare the mixture: Finely dice or mince the onion (a food processor works well here) and add it to the mixing bowl. Add 1/4 cup Panko bread crumbs, the egg, and 1 tablespoon of sour cream or mayo. Season the mixture with salt and pepper (around 1/2 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon pepper) and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well combined.
- Form and cook patties: Shape the mixture into oval patties. Dip both sides of each patty in Italian bread crumbs to coat. Heat a well-oiled skillet over medium heat and cook the patties, flipping 4-5 times until they are cooked through and golden brown, approximately 15-20 minutes total.
Notes
- Use extra light olive oil or a neutral oil to sauté to keep the flavor balanced.
- Sauté the spinach just until wilted to preserve its bright color and nutrients.
- To ensure even cooking, flip the patties several times rather than just once or twice.
- You can substitute sour cream with mayonnaise depending on preference or dietary needs.
- Cooked buckwheat can be prepared in advance and refrigerated to save time.
- Adjust seasoning according to taste, especially the salt and pepper quantities.
