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Transform lean ground chicken into flavorful, juicy burgers packed with fresh spinach and melted white cheddar. These healthier burgers deliver all the satisfaction of traditional beef burgers while incorporating nutritious ingredients.
Through countless testing, I've discovered that gentle handling and proper cooking temperature create the perfect chicken burger.
Essential Ingredients
- Ground Chicken: 93% lean
- Sharp White Cheddar: Freshly grated
- Fresh Spinach: Finely chopped
- Panko Breadcrumbs: For texture
- Yellow Onion: Finely diced
- Fresh Garlic: Minced
- Smooth Dijon Mustard: For tang
- Worcestershire Sauce: For depth
- Kosher Salt: For seasoning
- Fresh Ground Pepper: To taste
Detailed Instructions
- 1. Mixture Preparation:
- Combine ground chicken, grated cheddar, chopped spinach, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and diced onion in large bowl. Add Dijon, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with hands just until combined - overmixing creates tough burgers.
- 2. Patty Formation:
- Divide mixture into four equal portions. Shape into 1/2-inch thick patties, making slight depression in center of each. This prevents doming during cooking. Chill patties 15 minutes to help them hold shape.
- 3. Cooking Process:
- Heat olive oil in large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook patties 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add extra cheese on top during last minute if desired.
- 4. Resting Phase:
- Let burgers rest 5 minutes before serving. This allows juices to redistribute throughout meat for maximum juiciness.
- 5. Assembly:
- Toast buns lightly. Layer with lettuce, tomato, burger, and additional toppings as desired.
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Storage Solutions
- Refrigerate cooked burgers up to 3 days
- Freeze raw patties up to 3 months
- Freeze cooked burgers up to 2 months
- Thaw overnight in refrigerator
Perfect Pairings
- Sweet potato fries
- Mixed green salad
- Roasted vegetables
- Coleslaw
- Fresh fruit
- Crispy onion rings
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Topping Suggestions
- Caramelized onions
- Avocado slices
- Garlic aioli
- Crispy bacon
- Sautéed mushrooms
- Fresh arugula
These chicken burgers prove that healthy alternatives can be just as satisfying as traditional versions. The key to success lies in gentle handling and proper cooking. Whether served for casual dinner or backyard gatherings, they're sure to become a requested favorite.
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Final Notes
Success comes from attention to detail in both preparation and cooking. Each batch is an opportunity to perfect your technique and create your signature version of this healthier burger option.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Why use ground chicken instead of turkey?
- Chicken provides a milder flavor that pairs well with the cheese and spinach.
- → How do I prevent the burgers from being dry?
- The cheese and spinach help keep them moist, don't overcook past 165°F.
- → Can I make these ahead?
- Yes, form patties up to a day ahead and keep refrigerated until cooking.
- → What's the best way to cook these?
- Pan-frying or grilling both work well, just ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- → What sides go well with these?
- Sweet potato fries, mixed green salad, or coleslaw make great accompaniments.