These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! Juicy chicken mixes with creamy white cheddar and fresh spinach for a delicious bite.
They’re perfect for a quick weeknight meal. I love pairing them with sweet potato fries, and my family can’t get enough of the cheesy goodness! Yum! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of your burger! If you’d like a different flavor, ground turkey or even lean ground beef work well too. I’m a fan of ground chicken for its mild taste and smooth texture.
Fresh Spinach: Spinach adds not just color but nutrition! If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the mix.
White Cheddar Cheese: This cheese gives a rich, tangy flavor. If you can’t find white cheddar, regular cheddar works just as well. I also like to mix in a little mozzarella for extra gooeyness.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the mixture. If you’re gluten-free, try using almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers instead. These still hold everything together nicely!
Olive Oil or Butter: Both are great for toasting the buns and cooking the patties. If you prefer a lighter option, use a bit of cooking spray instead.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Burgers Stay Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep the chicken burgers moist, it’s important to not overmix your ingredients. Gently combine everything until just blended; this helps maintain a tender texture.
- When forming patties, make them slightly larger than the buns. They will shrink a bit while cooking.
- Cook on medium-high heat for a good sear. This adds flavors and moisture.
- Be cautious with cooking time. Aim for 5-6 minutes per side, and always check for doneness using a meat thermometer.
These steps will help you achieve perfectly juicy chicken burgers every time! Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
For Serving:
- 4 brioche or sandwich buns
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (for toasting buns and cooking)
- Optional: mayonnaise, mustard, or other preferred condiments
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll be enjoying these delicious burgers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, minced garlic, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and dried oregano. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently until all the ingredients are well combined. It’s important not to overmix!
2. Form the Patties:
Once all ingredients are mixed, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties. Make them slightly larger than your buns, as they may shrink while cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil or butter to the pan. Once hot, place the chicken patties in the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side until they are browned and cooked halfway through.
4. Add the Cheese:
Carefully flip each patty over and immediately sprinkle shredded white cheddar cheese on each one. If you’re using a skillet, you can cover it with a lid, or if you’re on a grill, close the lid. This will help the cheese melt nicely. Cook for another 5-6 minutes or until the patties are fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C).
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, take the brioche or sandwich buns and lightly toast the cut sides in a separate pan or on the grill until they are golden brown. This adds a delicious crunch!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Start by layering some fresh spinach leaves on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a cheesy chicken patty on top, then add your favorite condiments to the top half of the bun. Close the burger with the top bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them immediately while they’re hot and cheesy. You can serve them with a side of fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will yield a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to select lean ground turkey for a healthier option!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties a day in advance. Just cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate. This saves you time on cooking day, and the flavors will meld nicely!
What Should I Do If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
If you’re out of breadcrumbs, you can use crushed crackers or old bread pulsed in a food processor. Alternatively, use oats, cooked rice, or even almond flour as a gluten-free option!
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can place them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Enjoy them in a salad or on a new bun!
