Homemade Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Homemade Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a flavorful and wholesome twist on classic chicken burgers. These juicy patties are made with ground chicken, fresh spinach, and a generous mix of shredded cheddar cheese, which adds a creamy, savory depth to every bite. Seasoned with garlic, onion, and a hint of paprika, these burgers strike the perfect balance of hearty and healthy. Grilled or pan-fried to golden perfection, they are deliciously moist and can be served on toasted buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomatoes, avocado, and a dollop of aioli or mustard. Perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week!
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 320 kcal
Ingredients:
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
4 burger buns
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese
INSTRUCTIONS:
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, spinach, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the mixture into 4 firm, evenly sized patties to ensure they hold together during cooking.
Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Once the oil is hot, place the chicken patties in the skillet.
Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and develop a golden-brown crust.
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes.
Assemble your burgers by placing the patties on buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, or an extra slice of cheddar cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Details:
Ground Chicken: Use fresh ground chicken for a tender and juicy texture.
Spinach: Finely chop fresh spinach. Frozen spinach works too but ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds creaminess. Mix some into the patty for extra flavor or layer it on top while cooking.
Binders: Use breadcrumbs and an egg to help hold the patties together.
Seasonings: Enhance flavor with garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper.
Preparation Tips
Mixing: Combine all ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the patties tough.
Shaping: Form the patties slightly larger than the buns, as they shrink during cooking.
Chilling: Chill the formed patties for 15-20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
Cooking Tips
Grilling: Cook over medium heat on a grill for 4-5 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Stovetop: Use a nonstick skillet with a bit of oil. Sear on medium heat for 5-6 minutes per side.
Oven-Baking: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Assembly Suggestions
Buns: Toasted brioche or whole wheat buns pair perfectly.
Toppings: Add lettuce, tomato, red onion, and extra cheese. For a flavor boost, try avocado slices or caramelized onions.
Sauces: Classic mayo, garlic aioli, or a tangy barbecue sauce work well.
Storage
Uncooked Patties: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the fridge or freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooked Patties: Refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave to maintain moisture.
These chicken burgers are versatile, healthy, and full of flavor! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or summer cookouts.