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This hearty White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger recipe transforms ordinary ground chicken into a juicy, flavor-packed meal that's become my go-to for busy weeknights and casual entertaining alike. The combination of melty white cheddar and tender spinach folded into seasoned chicken creates a burger that's both nutritious and indulgent.
I first created these burgers when looking for a healthier alternative to beef burgers that wouldn't sacrifice flavor. After several attempts at perfecting the recipe, these have become a staple in my household, with even my pickiest eaters requesting them regularly.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: creates a lighter burger base with a neutral flavor that absorbs seasonings beautifully
- Fresh spinach: adds color, nutrients, and a subtle earthiness that complements the chicken
- White cheddar cheese: introduces a creamy tanginess and helps bind the patties while adding moisture
- Breadcrumbs: provide structure and help maintain the burgers' shape during cooking
- Egg: acts as the crucial binding agent ensuring your patties stay together
- Garlic cloves: infuse aromatic depth throughout the patty
- Dijon mustard: contributes a sophisticated tang that enhances all other flavors
- Onion powder: delivers concentrated savory notes without the texture of raw onion
- Salt and pepper: are essential for bringing all flavors into balance
- Olive oil: creates that perfect golden exterior when cooking
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix with Intention:
- Combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently incorporate all ingredients just until mixed. Stop when everything is evenly distributed to avoid tough, densely packed burgers. The mixture should look uniform but still have some texture.
- Shape with Care:
- Divide your mixture into four equal portions using a kitchen scale if available for perfect uniformity. Form each portion into a patty slightly larger than your bun as they will shrink during cooking. Create a small dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent the burger from doming up during cooking. This ensures even cooking and a flat surface for toppings.
- Cook with Precision:
- Heat olive oil in a heavy skillet until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Place patties carefully into the hot pan, allowing space between each. Let them cook undisturbed for a full 4 minutes before flipping to develop a golden crust. After flipping, continue cooking for another 4 minutes until the internal temperature reaches exactly 165°F. Chicken burgers need to be fully cooked through unlike beef burgers which can remain pink in the center.
- Rest Before Serving:
- Allow the burgers to rest for 2 minutes after cooking. This crucial step allows juices to redistribute throughout the patty rather than rushing out when cut, resulting in a juicier final product. During this time, you can toast your buns or prepare final toppings.
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White cheddar is my secret weapon in these burgers. Unlike yellow cheddar, it has a slightly milder, creamier profile that melts beautifully without overwhelming the delicate chicken flavor. The first time I served these at a family gathering, my cheese-obsessed nephew declared them "better than restaurant burgers" and promptly asked for the recipe for his college apartment. That moment solidified these as a keeper in my recipe collection.
Meal Prep Magic
These chicken burgers are extraordinarily meal prep friendly. You can prepare the patties up to 24 hours ahead and store them in the refrigerator separated by parchment paper. For longer storage, freeze the raw patties on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag where they'll keep for up to three months. Cook frozen patties by adding 2 minutes per side and checking the internal temperature. Having these prepped in advance has saved countless weeknight dinners when time is short.
Flavor Variations
The beauty of this base recipe is its adaptability. For a Mediterranean twist, swap the white cheddar for feta and add chopped fresh dill and oregano. Craving something spicy? Incorporate diced jalapeños and pepper jack cheese instead of white cheddar. For an Italian-inspired version, use mozzarella cheese, add some sun-dried tomatoes, and serve with pesto mayo. My family especially loves the buffalo variation with blue cheese crumbles and hot sauce mixed into the patty, topped with celery slaw.
Serving Suggestions
While these burgers are delicious on traditional buns, they shine in various serving styles. Try them atop a vibrant salad with mixed greens, avocado, and a light vinaigrette for a lower-carb option. Wrap them in butter lettuce cups for a fresh, crunchy contrast to the tender patty. They also work beautifully deconstructed in a grain bowl with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a tahini drizzle. For entertaining, make mini versions as sliders on small potato rolls, which disappear quickly at gatherings.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I prevent the patties from being dry?
To keep the patties moist, avoid overmixing the ingredients and ensure you don't overcook them. Cooking to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) helps retain moisture.
- → What alternatives can I use for breadcrumbs?
You can use almond flour for a gluten-free option or crushed crackers as a substitute for breadcrumbs.
- → Can I freeze the cooked patties?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked patties. Let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 1 month. Reheat as needed.
- → What other types of cheese work well?
Mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda are great alternatives that pair well with the chicken and spinach flavors.
- → What is the best way to serve these burgers?
Serve them on toasted buns or lettuce wraps with toppings like avocado slices, tomato, red onion, or extra cheddar. Pair with a fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.