White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and packed with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to a golden brown, they make a delicious and healthy twist on the classic chicken burger, ideal for a satisfying lunch or dinner.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken (93% lean)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, freshly grated
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Cooking and Serving
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, additional cheese
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, freshly grated sharp white cheddar, panko breadcrumbs, diced yellow onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are just combined to avoid overworking the meat.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture evenly and shape into 4 patties, each about half an inch thick. Press a slight center depression into each patty to help them cook evenly without puffing up. Place the patties on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape during cooking.
- Heat Skillet and Cook: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to coat the surface. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet. Cook each side for 5 to 6 minutes until the exterior is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safe consumption.
- Add Cheese (Optional) and Rest: If you like extra cheese, add additional slices on top of the patties about 1 minute before they finish cooking to allow it to melt. After cooking, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for 5 minutes to retain juices and improve texture.
- Toast Buns and Assemble: While the patties are resting, toast the burger buns lightly in the same skillet or toaster. Assemble the burgers by placing the rested chicken patties on the toasted buns and adding your preferred optional toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese. Serve immediately while hot for best flavor.
Notes
- For a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.
- Make sure not to overmix the burger mixture to keep the texture tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for food safety.
- Chilling the patties before cooking helps maintain their shape and prevents shrinking.
- Adding Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce boosts flavor without overpowering the chicken.
- Serve with your favorite side such as sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
