*Low Carb & Diabetic-Friendly | Prep: 15 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 35 min*
Yield: 6 patties
Serving Size: 1 patty
Difficulty: Easy
Intensity: Low (minimal active effort)
Introduction
Perfect for meal prep, lunches, or a quick high-protein dinner, these Veggie Chicken Patties deliver satisfying texture and flavor without the carbs. By combining lean ground chicken with finely grated vegetables and savory seasoning, you get a moist, flavorful patty that’s packed with nutrients and blood-sugar-friendly ingredients. They hold together beautifully, can be baked or pan-seared, and are freezer-friendly. Whether you’re managing diabetes, following a low-carb lifestyle, or simply wanting a healthier burger alternative, these paties will become a staple.
Ingredients
Patties
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1 lb (450g) lean ground chicken (or ground turkey)
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1 cup zucchini, finely grated and excess moisture squeezed out
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½ cup carrot, finely grated
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¼ cup red onion, finely minced
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¼ cup almond flour (or oat fiber for nut-free)
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1 large egg
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (or coconut aminos for low-sodium)
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1 tsp smoked paprika
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½ tsp dried thyme
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½ tsp black pepper
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½ tsp sea salt
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1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Optional Serving Suggestions
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Lettuce wraps or low-carb buns
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Sliced tomato, avocado, sugar-free pickles
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Sauce: Mix Greek yogurt with lemon juice, dill, and a pinch of garlic powder
Equipment
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Mixing bowl
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Box grater
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Clean kitchen towel or paper towels (for draining veggies)
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Measuring spoons/cups
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Large skillet or baking sheet
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Spatula
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables (5 minutes)
Grate the zucchini and carrot using the fine side of a box grater. Place grated veggies in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze tightly over the sink to remove as much liquid as possible—this is key to preventing soggy patties. Mince red onion and garlic.
Step 2: Mix Patty Ingredients (5 minutes)
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, squeezed zucchini and carrot, red onion, almond flour, egg, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, pepper, and salt. Use your hands or a fork to mix until just combined—do not overmix.
Step 3: Form Patties (5 minutes)
Divide mixture into 6 equal portions. Shape each into a ½-inch thick patty, about 3 inches in diameter. Place on a plate or parchment-lined tray.
Step 4: Cook Patties (20 minutes)
Stovetop method: Heat olive oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Baking method: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet, lightly brush with oil, and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 5: Serve
Let patties rest for 2–3 minutes before serving. Enjoy in lettuce wraps, with a side salad, or with your preferred low-carb accompaniments.
Make-Ahead & Storage
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Refrigerate: Cooked patties keep in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
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Freeze: Separate patties with parchment paper in a freezer bag; freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat in oven or skillet from frozen until warmed through.
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Meal Prep: Double the batch and freeze portions for easy high-protein meals.
Nutrition Facts (per patty, without bun or toppings)
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Calories: 148
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Total Fat: 8g
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Saturated Fat: 1.5g
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Cholesterol: 85mg
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Sodium: 280mg
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Total Carbohydrates: 4g
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Dietary Fiber: 1.5g
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Sugars: 1g
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Protein: 16g