These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic! Packed with juicy chicken, creamy white cheddar, and fresh spinach, they’re sure to please.
I love how colorful and healthy they are! Plus, they’re so easy to make. You can whip these up for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend BBQ. Yum! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the burgers. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey can be a great substitute. Alternatively, for vegetarian burgers, try using black beans or chickpeas mashed together.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. If spinach is unavailable, you can use kale or even frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture!
White Cheddar Cheese: I love white cheddar for its rich flavor. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try cashew cheese or switch to a different cheese like Monterey Jack or mozzarella, though it will change the flavor a bit.
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the burger together. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed oat flakes. I sometimes use crushed crackers for a fun twist!
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Burgers Stay Juicy and Not Dense?
A common challenge with chicken burgers is keeping them juicy. Here are some tips to ensure your burgers are light and flavorful:
- Be gentle when mixing the ingredients. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
- Form patties that are about 3/4 inch thick to cook evenly.
- Make sure your cooking pan is hot before adding the patties; this helps sear them and lock in moisture.
- Cover the skillet briefly after flipping your patties. This helps the cheese melt and keeps moisture in!
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese, divided
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Assembling:
- 4 sandwich buns (preferably brioche or sesame-topped)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil
- Fresh spinach leaves (for serving)
- Optional: mayonnaise or aioli for spreading on buns
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation time and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, giving you a total of around 30-35 minutes. It’s quick and easy to whip up these delicious burgers for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, chopped fresh spinach, half of the shredded white cheddar cheese, minced garlic, chopped onion, breadcrumbs, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Be sure to mix thoroughly so everything is well combined, but don’t overmix as that can make the patties tough.
2. Form the Patties:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that is about 3/4 inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. When the oil is hot, cook the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes on one side, until they are browned and cooked halfway through. You’re looking for a nice golden color!
4. Add the Cheese:
Carefully flip the patties over. Sprinkle the remaining shredded white cheddar cheese evenly on top of each patty. Cover the skillet briefly with a lid or a piece of aluminum foil. This will help melt the cheese while the patties finish cooking, which should take another 5-6 minutes until they are fully cooked through.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, quickly toast the sandwich buns in a separate pan or a toaster until they are lightly golden. This adds a nice texture and flavor to your burgers.
6. Assemble and Serve:
To build your burgers, spread some mayonnaise or aioli (if using) on the bottom bun. Then, add a fresh spinach leaf, place the cheesy chicken patty on top, and finish with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Chicken?
Yes! If using frozen ground chicken, make sure to fully thaw it in the refrigerator overnight or use the microwave’s defrost setting before cooking to ensure even mixing and cooking.
Can I Prepare the Mixture Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chicken mixture and shape the patties ahead of time. Just cover them tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to cook, add an extra minute or two to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through.
What If I Don’t Have White Cheddar Cheese?
No problem! You can substitute with any cheese you prefer, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack for some heat. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture will be slightly different.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat until heated through. You may want to add a splash of water to the skillet and cover it with a lid for even reheating.
