There’s something undeniably satisfying about biting into a perfectly cooked chicken burger. It’s juicy, flavorful, and can be customized to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re grilling for a summer barbecue or just looking for a quick weeknight meal, this chicken burger recipe is a delightful option. Packed with fresh spinach and seasoned to perfection, this burger is not only delicious but also a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Let’s dive into why you should make this chicken burger your next go-to recipe!
Top Reasons to Make Chicken Burger
– **Healthier Choice**: Ground chicken is lower in fat compared to ground beef, making it a great option for those looking to maintain a balanced diet.
– **Quick and Easy**: This recipe is straightforward and comes together in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
– **Flavorful and Juicy**: The addition of fresh spinach and a blend of spices ensures that your chicken burger is packed with flavor.
– **Versatile Toppings**: You can customize your chicken burger with a variety of toppings, making it a fun meal for everyone.
– **Great for Meal Prep**: These chicken burgers can be made ahead of time and stored for later, making them a fantastic meal prep option.
Ingredient List
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, mixed Italian herbs, or sage
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray for cooking
- 5 low-calorie hamburger buns, toasted
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, lettuce, sliced tomato, raw or sautéed onions
What’s in the Gear List
- Mixing Bowl: For combining all your ingredients.
- Griddle or Grill: To cook your chicken burgers evenly.
- Spatula: For flipping the burgers without falling apart.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure you get the right amount of each ingredient.
- Food Thermometer: To check that the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.
Cook Chicken Burger Like This
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (or your herb of choice), paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the chicken mixture into five equal portions and shape them into patties. Make sure they are slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink a little during cooking.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill or Griddle
Preheat your grill or griddle over medium heat. Lightly spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Place the chicken patties on the grill or griddle and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. To ensure they are fully cooked, use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, toast your low-calorie hamburger buns on a separate skillet or in a toaster until they are golden brown.
Step 6: Assemble Your Burger
Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, assemble your chicken burgers. Start with the bottom bun, add the patty, and pile on your favorite toppings. Consider adding sliced avocado or Creamy Vegan Mayo for a delicious twist!
Fresh Takes Through the Year
- In the summer, try adding fresh basil and mozzarella for a Caprese-inspired chicken burger.
- During the fall, incorporate pumpkin puree and spices like cinnamon for a seasonal twist.
- For a winter comfort meal, top with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese.
- In spring, add a refreshing slaw made of cabbage and carrots for a crunch.
Pro Tips & Notes
- Don’t overwork the meat when mixing; this can lead to tough patties.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as grated carrots or chopped bell peppers, to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Experiment with different spices or herbs to find your favorite flavor combination.
Save for Later: Storage Tips
To store your cooked chicken burgers, let them cool completely before placing them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, wrap the cooked patties in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and warm them up in a skillet or microwave.
Common Qs About Chicken Burger
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will give you a similar flavor and texture.
How do I know when the chicken burger is done cooking?
The safest way to check is by using a food thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
Can I make these in advance?
Yes! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.
What toppings go well with chicken burgers?
There are so many options! Popular choices include sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, sautéed onions, or even a drizzle of your favorite sauce like ketchup or mustard.
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Ready, Set, Cook
This chicken burger recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. Each bite reveals a balance of flavors, making it a worthy addition to your dinner rotation. With its ease of preparation and adaptability, this chicken burger can be dressed up for a casual gathering or kept simple for a quick weeknight meal. So gather your ingredients, fire up the grill or stovetop, and enjoy a homemade chicken burger that will leave you feeling satisfied and happy.
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Chicken Burger
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup finely chopped fresh spinach
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, mixed Italian herbs, or sage
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil spray for cooking
- 5 low-calorie hamburger buns toasted
- Optional toppings sliced avocado, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, lettuce, sliced tomato, raw or sautéed onions
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, dried thyme (or your herb of choice), paprika, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Divide the chicken mixture into five equal portions and shape them into patties. Make sure they are slightly larger than your buns, as they will shrink a little during cooking.
- Preheat your grill or griddle over medium heat. Lightly spray it with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place the chicken patties on the grill or griddle and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. To ensure they are fully cooked, use a food thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- While the patties are cooking, toast your low-calorie hamburger buns on a separate skillet or in a toaster until they are golden brown.
- Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, assemble your chicken burgers. Start with the bottom bun, add the patty, and pile on your favorite toppings.
Equipment
- Mixing Bowl
- Griddle or Grill
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food Thermometer
Notes
- Don’t overwork the meat when mixing; this can lead to tough patties.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as grated carrots or chopped bell peppers, to the mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
- If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
