Description
These Spinach Chicken Burgers combine lean ground chicken with nutrient-packed spinach and flavorful seasonings for a healthy and delicious homemade burger option. Perfectly pan-fried to juicy perfection and served with your favorite toppings on a soft bun, these burgers make a satisfying and wholesome meal for any day of the week.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken
- 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, cheese slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Squeeze as much moisture as possible from the thawed spinach using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent soggy burger patties.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, squeezed spinach, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg to create the burger mixture.
- Add Flavor: Incorporate the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season the mixture generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix Gently: Carefully mix all ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overwork the mixture to maintain tender burgers.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes or up to a few hours to help the flavors meld and the patties hold their shape during cooking.
- Form Patties: Divide the chilled mixture into four equal portions and gently shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
- Make Indentation: Press a small indentation in the center of each patty using your thumb to prevent them from puffing up during cooking and help them cook evenly.
- Heat Oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook Burgers: Place the patties carefully in the hot skillet with space in between. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Drain: Transfer the cooked burgers onto a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil before assembling.
- Assemble Burgers: Prepare the burger buns by spreading condiments such as mayonnaise, mustard, or ketchup on the cut sides.
- Add Toppings: Place each spinach chicken burger on the bottom bun, then add your choice of lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, or cheese slices as desired.
- Serve: Top the burger with the other half of the bun and serve immediately while warm and juicy.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out all excess moisture from spinach to avoid soggy patties.
- Letting the mixture chill helps the burgers hold together better when cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F.
- Customize your toppings to suit your taste preferences for a personalized burger experience.
- These burgers can also be cooked on a grill if preferred, adjusting cooking times to prevent overcooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American