If you are craving a burger that combines wholesome ingredients with a burst of fresh flavor, this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is going to become your new favorite go-to. Imagine juicy ground chicken mixed with vibrant spinach and gooey white cheddar cheese, all packed into a tender patty that’s both satisfying and nutritious. It’s a delightful twist on the classic chicken burger that’s easy to make and perfect for any meal, whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend barbecue with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe truly comes from its simple yet carefully chosen ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make these burgers pop with freshness and richness.
- 1 pound ground chicken: This lean protein forms the juicy base of the burger, keeping it light yet hearty.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped: Adds a lovely splash of green and delivers essential vitamins and a subtle earthiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Melts perfectly inside, giving the patties a creamy, tangy surprise in every bite.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together for the perfect patty texture that holds firm without being dense.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Brings a subtle warmth and depth of flavor that complements the chicken beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Offers a bit of zesty kick and enhances the overall savory profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Elevates all the flavors without overpowering them.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle, peppery heat that balances the mildness of the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential for cooking the patties to a golden brown with a delicious crust.
- 4 burger buns: Soft and fresh, the perfect vehicle for all the tasty ingredients.
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and mayonnaise (for serving): Classic toppings that lend crunch, juiciness, and creaminess to each burger.
How to Make White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by taking a large mixing bowl and gently combining the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. The key here is to mix everything just enough to distribute the ingredients evenly without overworking the meat, which keeps the patties tender and juicy once cooked.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions and shape each portion into a round, flat patty. Aim for uniform thickness so they cook evenly. This step is where your burgers start to take shape, so don’t be shy to press them firmly but gently.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan, cooking them for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. You want a beautiful golden brown crust forming, and it’s important to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. This careful cooking ensures your White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe are both delicious and perfectly cooked.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns and Assemble
While the patties finish cooking, lightly toast your burger buns if you like a little extra crunch and warmth. Then it’s time to build your burger: spread mayonnaise on the buns, add a crisp layer of lettuce and juicy tomato slices, and nestle the chicken patty right on top. The combination of textures and flavors here is pure bliss.
How to Serve White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes elevate these burgers effortlessly. Fresh leafy lettuce adds crunch, while ripe tomato slices bring juicy sweetness. A generous smear of mayonnaise balances the savory and cheesy patty, adding the creaminess that completes each bite perfectly.
Side Dishes
When serving your White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe, consider pairing it with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh cucumber salad, or even a tangy coleslaw. These sides add textural contrast and extra flavor dimensions that complement the rich, cheesy chicken patties wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving these burgers wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of buns for a low-carb version bursting with freshness. You can also slide in some caramelized onions or creamy avocado slices as topping options for extra indulgence and flair, making each burger uniquely yours.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for 2 to 3 days, making them perfect for quick weekday lunches.
Freezing
For longer storage, these patties freeze beautifully. Place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually first, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen, they stay delicious for up to 2 months, giving you easy meals whenever you need.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or frozen chicken burgers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a toaster oven to retain juiciness and re-crisp the exterior. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can make the texture less enjoyable.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a similarly mild flavor that pairs wonderfully with the spinach and white cheddar.
Is it possible to make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free ones or use crushed gluten-free crackers to maintain the perfect texture.
Can I prepare the patties in advance?
Definitely. You can mix and shape the patties a day ahead and refrigerate them, which makes cooking on the day of serving even quicker and easier.
What can I add to the burger for extra flavor?
Adding caramelized onions, sliced avocado, or even a fiery chipotle mayo can all enhance the flavor profile, giving your burgers a gourmet touch.
Are these burgers suitable for a high-protein diet?
Yes! With 33 grams of protein per serving, the White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to boost their protein intake while enjoying a tasty meal.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a way to jazz up chicken burgers, this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is a winner every time. It’s packed with fresh ingredients and full of flavor, yet straightforward enough to whip up any night of the week. Trust me, once you try these, they’ll quickly become a staple in your recipe collection. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
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White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Description
These White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic burger. Combining lean ground chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy white cheddar cheese, these patties are flavorful and packed with protein. Perfectly seasoned and cooked to juicy perfection on the stovetop or grill pan, they’re served on toasted buns with crisp lettuce, tomato slices, and mayonnaise for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking and Serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 burger buns
- lettuce leaves
- tomato slices
- mayonnaise
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until all ingredients are evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the patties tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a round, even patty approximately 3/4-inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Heat the Pan: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat, allowing it to warm until shimmering but not smoking, which will help achieve a golden crust.
- Cook Patties: Place the chicken patties in the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on the first side without moving them to let a crust form. Flip the patties carefully and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until the other side is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
- Toast Buns: While the patties cook, lightly toast the burger buns either in a separate pan, toaster, or under a broiler for a minute or two until they are slightly crisp and golden.
- Assemble Burgers: Spread mayonnaise on the buns, then layer with lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and top with the cooked chicken patty. Close the burger with the top bun and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if preferred.
- Adding caramelized onions or avocado slices can provide extra flavor and texture.
- For a lighter alternative, serve the patties wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of buns.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
