These tasty White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are packed with flavor! Made with juicy chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy white cheddar, they’re a hit at any meal.
Why go for a regular burger when you can enjoy one that’s a little fancy? I love serving these with a dollop of yogurt sauce; it’s quick, easy, and oh-so-yummy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of your burger. If you prefer poultry flavors, turkey is a great substitute. For a leaner option, ground turkey works very well.
Fresh Spinach: Use fresh spinach for the best flavor and texture. If you don’t have fresh, you can use frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
White Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a nice tangy flavor. If you can’t find white cheddar, regular cheddar or even mozzarella can work fine too, though they’ll taste a bit different.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the ingredients together. If you’re avoiding gluten, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed cornflakes instead.
Brioche Buns: Brioche adds a soft and slightly sweet touch to the burger. If you want something healthier, try whole wheat or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
How Do I Cook the Perfect Chicken Burger Patties?
Cooking chicken patties can be tricky, but following these steps will help ensure they’re juicy and flavorful. First, choose a skillet or grill pan that is preheated to medium heat. You’ll want to hear a nice sizzle when the patties hit the pan.
- Shape the patties evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet; cook in batches if needed.
- Use a thermometer to check for doneness. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to be safe.
For extra flavor, consider adding a little more seasoning. I also like to cover the skillet with a lid for the last few minutes to help the cheese melt and keep moisture inside!
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra slices for topping)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped or grated
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Assembling:
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Additional fresh spinach leaves (for burger assembly)
- Optional: mayonnaise, mustard, or preferred burger sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15-20 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll need roughly 35-40 minutes to whip up these delicious burgers from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, the egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly using your hands or a spatula until all ingredients are well combined.
2. Shape the Patties:
Once your mixture is ready, shape it into 4 equal-sized patties, each about 1/2 inch thick. This will help them cook evenly. You can use your hands to flatten them slightly for even cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken patties in the pan. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on the first side until they are nicely browned. Then, flip the patties and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is important to ensure the chicken is fully cooked!
4. Melt the Cheese:
In the last 2 minutes of cooking, place a slice of white cheddar cheese on each patty, allowing it to melt as the patties finish cooking. This adds delicious creaminess to your burgers!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are finishing up, you can toast the brioche buns in a separate pan or on the grill until they are lightly golden. This adds a nice crunch to the burgers.
6. Assemble the Burgers:
To construct your delicious burgers, start by spreading mayonnaise or your preferred condiment on the bottom half of each toasted bun (this is optional but recommended!). Add a layer of fresh spinach leaves on top of the sauce, then place your hot chicken patty with melted cheese on the spinach.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Top with the other half of the bun to complete your burger. Serve immediately while they’re still warm and enjoy every bite of your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers!
Happy cooking!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will yield a similar flavor, making it a healthier option if you prefer. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time, as turkey might require slightly longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
How Can I Make These Burgers Spicier?
If you like a kick, feel free to add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture. You can also mix in a bit of sriracha or hot sauce into your mayo for an extra spicy touch when assembling the burgers!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, heat them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through to preserve their moisture and flavor.
Can I Freeze the Patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties! Just shape them and place them in a single layer on a baking sheet. Once they’re frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, extending the cooking time slightly until they reach 165°F (74°C).
