Ground Chicken Smash Burgers

This ground chicken smash burger recipe transforms plain poultry into crispy, juicy patties that rival beef burgers. The smashing technique creates those delicious crispy edges we all crave while keeping the inside tender and flavorful. Perfect for when you want something lighter than beef but still satisfying.

I started making these chicken smash burgers when my daughter wanted something "special but healthy" for her birthday dinner. Three years later, they've become our Friday night tradition, and friends now request them when they visit.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: The star ingredient that provides a leaner option than beef while still delivering great flavor. Look for ground thigh meat for the juiciest results.
• Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavor of the chicken. Use kosher salt for better distribution.
• American cheese: Melts perfectly and adds creaminess. The mild flavor complements the chicken without overpowering it.
• Brioche buns: Adds a slightly sweet, buttery flavor that elevates the burger. The soft texture perfectly contrasts with the crispy patties.
• Mayo: Creates a protective barrier that prevents soggy buns and helps achieve that beautiful golden crust. Even mayo skeptics won't taste it.
• Fresh toppings: Iceberg lettuce provides crunch, tomatoes add juiciness, and pickles bring a tangy contrast. Choose firm tomatoes and crisp lettuce for best results.
• Burger sauce: Ties everything together with creamy, tangy flavor. Make extra for dipping fries.

How To Make Ground Chicken Smash Burgers

Prep Toppings:

Wash and chop lettuce, slice tomatoes, and have pickles ready to go. This advance prep makes assembly quick and stress-free while ensuring hot patties don't cool while you're slicing vegetables.

Prepare Chicken:

Pat ground chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which is crucial for achieving a crispy exterior. Divide into 2-ounce portions without compacting the meat to maintain tenderness. Season each portion with salt and pepper to build flavor from the beginning.

Toast Buns:

Apply a thin layer of mayo to both sides of each bun, which creates a golden, crispy exterior while adding subtle richness. Toast on a hot griddle until golden brown, watching carefully to avoid burning. Set aside on a wire rack rather than a plate to prevent steaming.

Smash Patties:

Place chicken portions on a screaming hot surface, cover with parchment paper, and press firmly with a spatula to create thin patties. The parchment prevents sticking while creating maximum surface area for browning. Season the exposed side immediately.

Cook And Cheese:

Allow patties to develop a golden crust before flipping, about 2-3 minutes. The edges should be slightly crispy and most of the pink should be gone from the top. After flipping, immediately add cheese to half the patties so it begins melting while the second side cooks.

Stack And Assemble:

Create double patties by stacking a plain patty onto each cheese-topped patty, which allows the melty cheese to act as glue. Place on prepared buns and add toppings right away while everything is hot.

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I discovered that adding a tiny sprinkle of garlic powder to the ground chicken takes these burgers to another level. My grandmother taught me this trick after tasting my first attempt and declaring they needed "just a little something extra." She was right, as usual.

Make-Ahead Options

You can prepare the chicken portions up to 24 hours ahead and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just be sure not to season until right before cooking to prevent the salt from drawing out moisture. The burger sauce actually improves if made a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld. I often prep everything during my son's naptime so dinner comes together in minutes when my husband gets home from work.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your chicken patties are falling apart, your pan likely isn't hot enough. The immediate sear helps create structure. Another common issue is overworking the meat when forming portions. Handle the chicken as little as possible to keep it tender. If you find your burgers are too dry, try using ground chicken thigh instead of breast meat, or mix in a tablespoon of olive oil per pound of chicken.

Serving Suggestions

These chicken smash burgers pair perfectly with sweet potato fries for a balanced meal. For a lighter option, serve alongside a crisp green salad with vinaigrette. When hosting, I set up a topping bar so everyone can customize their burger. Cold beer or a sparkling lemonade makes the perfect beverage pairing. During summer months, we enjoy these burgers outdoors with grilled corn on the cob and watermelon wedges for a complete seasonal meal.

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Storing And Reheating

Leftover cooked patties can be refrigerated for up to 3 days in an airtight container. For best results when reheating, warm them in a skillet over medium heat rather than microwaving, which can make them tough. I recommend storing patties separately from buns and toppings to prevent sogginess. While these burgers are best fresh, you can freeze cooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for a quick weeknight meal solution.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do you prevent ground chicken patties from sticking to the pan?

Use a hot, well-oiled griddle or non-stick skillet and press the patties with parchment paper while flattening. This prevents sticking and ensures clean, even cooking.

→ What type of cheese works best for smash chicken burgers?

Yellow American cheese melts smoothly and complements the flavor of ground chicken perfectly, but you can use cheddar or any preferred melting cheese.

→ Can I use different buns for these burgers?

Absolutely! While brioche buns provide great texture and a rich flavor, sesame seed buns or whole-grain buns are also tasty options.

→ What toppings go well with chicken smash burgers?

Classic toppings like shredded lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and burger sauce pair excellently. You can also try avocado, onions, or spicy mayonnaise for added flavor.

→ How do I ensure the chicken patties are cooked thoroughly?

Cook the patties until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and they are golden brown on both sides. Avoid overcooking to keep them juicy.

→ Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

You can prepare and pre-portion the chicken patties and toppings ahead of time, but cook and assemble the burgers fresh for the best texture and flavor.