These tasty White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are loaded with flavor! Juicy chicken is mixed with fresh spinach and creamy white cheddar for a delicious treat that’s perfect for grilling.
They’re a hit at barbecues, and I love how you can easily whip them up in no time. Just grill, serve, and enjoy! Who knew chicken burgers could be this fancy and fun? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the recipe. For a lean option, ground turkey works well too. If you prefer beef or pork, just adjust your cooking time as they have different fat contents.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh spinach gives these burgers a nice pop of color and health boost. If you don’t have fresh spinach, you can use frozen spinach; just make sure to thaw and drain it well.
White Cheddar Cheese: I absolutely love white cheddar for its sharp flavor! If you can’t find it, you can substitute with regular cheddar or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
Mayonnaise: Mayonnaise adds moisture and creaminess. If you want a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute, adding a tangy flavor while keeping it creamy.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Burgers Are Juicy and Not Dry?
To keep your chicken burgers juicy, avoid overmixing the meat mixture; this helps maintain tenderness. Here’s what to do:
- Gently combine all ingredients until mixed; you want it just combined.
- Shape your patties carefully and don’t press them too hard.
- Cook over medium heat—this allows them to brown nicely without drying out.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F (74°C) is your target temperature.
These tips will help you enjoy moist and flavorful burgers!
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for a slight kick)
For Assembly:
- 4 sesame seed burger buns
- 2 tbsp olive oil or cooking oil for frying
- Additional white cheddar slices for topping
- Fresh spinach leaves for layering
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook, making it a quick option for a tasty meal. You can whip up these burgers in under 30 minutes—perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar, Parmesan cheese (if using), mayonnaise, minced garlic, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough. Aim for a nice blend of ingredients without squeezing too much.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. With your hands, shape each portion into a burger patty that’s about ¾-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty so they hold their shape as they cook. This will help ensure 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 add the burger patties. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through halfway before flipping.
4. Add the Cheese:
Gently flip each patty over and place a slice of white cheddar cheese on top of each one. Continue to cook for another 4-5 minutes until the chicken patties are fully cooked through (you can check with a meat thermometer—look for an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is nicely melted.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers finish cooking, place the sesame seed buns on a separate pan or in the oven and lightly toast them for about 1-2 minutes until they’re golden and warm. Keep an eye on them so they don’t burn!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
To put your burgers together, take the bottom half of each toasted bun and layer on some fresh spinach leaves. Add a cheesy chicken patty on top, and finish it off with the top bun. Feel free to add any extra toppings or condiments you love!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers immediately with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries, salad, or chips. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still yield delicious, juicy burgers. Just be aware that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the fat content of the turkey.
What Can I Use Instead of White Cheddar Cheese?
If you don’t have white cheddar on hand, feel free to substitute with regular cheddar for a similar flavor, or mozzarella for a milder taste. You could also try gouda for a smoky flavor twist!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also reassemble them on a toasted bun for a great lunch option!
Can I Freeze the Patties Before Cooking?
Yes! You can shape the patties and freeze them before cooking. Just place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking for the best results.
