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There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a juicy, flavorful burger, especially when it’s homemade and packed with wholesome ingredients. These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a fantastic way to switch up your burger game while keeping things light yet delicious. The combination of melty white cheddar, tender chicken, and nutrient-rich spinach makes for a burger that’s both indulgent and nutritious.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, summer cookout, or even meal prepping, these burgers offer a unique twist on a classic favorite. Plus, since they’re made with ground chicken, they’re a leaner alternative to traditional beef burgers without sacrificing taste. Serve them on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings, or go bunless for a low-carb option. Either way, these burgers are bound to become a household favorite!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Ground chicken: 1 pound
- Fresh spinach: 1 cup, finely chopped
- Shredded white cheddar cheese: ½ cup
- Breadcrumbs: ¼ cup
- Egg: 1
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Onion powder: ½ teaspoon
- Paprika: ½ teaspoon
- Salt: ½ teaspoon
- Black pepper: ¼ teaspoon
- Olive oil (for cooking): 1 tablespoon
- Burger buns and toppings of choice: (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
- Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together using clean hands or a spoon until well combined. The mixture may be slightly sticky, but that’s normal.
- Step 2: Shape the Patties
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently shape them into patties about ½-inch thick. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly grease your hands with a little olive oil to make shaping easier.
- Step 3: Cook the Burgers
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the burgers are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Step 4: Assemble and Serve
- Once cooked, transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Toast your burger buns if desired, then assemble with your favorite toppings. Try adding lettuce, tomato, avocado, or a little extra white cheddar for an extra cheesy bite!
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Helpful Tips
Don’t overmix the meat – Overworking the mixture can make the burgers dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
Use fresh spinach – Frozen spinach can make the mixture watery, so stick with fresh and chop it finely.
Cheese alternatives – If you don’t have white cheddar, you can substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a little heat.
Make ahead – You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
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Recipe Details
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 22 minutes
Yield: 4 burgers
Category: Main Course
Method: Pan-fried
Cuisine: American
Diet: High Protein
Notes
If grilling, lightly oil the grates and cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
These burgers can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes if you prefer a hands-off approach.
For a spicy kick, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Nutritional Information (Per Burger, Without Bun)
Calories: ~210
Protein: 22g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fat: 11g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe and offers a similar lean protein option.
How do I keep my chicken burgers from falling apart?
Using an egg and breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture together. If your patties still feel too loose, chill them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
What toppings go well with these burgers?
Some great topping ideas include sliced avocado, caramelized onions, crisp lettuce, tomato slices, and a smear of garlic aioli or honey mustard.
Can I make these burgers in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a low-carb option.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
Freezer: To freeze uncooked patties, place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Conclusion
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. They’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling them up for a barbecue or making a quick dinner at home, these burgers are sure to impress.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute and offers similar lean protein benefits and texture.
- → How do I keep chicken burgers from falling apart?
Use an egg and breadcrumbs to help bind the mixture. Chilling the patties for 15–20 minutes before cooking also helps.
- → What toppings go best with these burgers?
Try lettuce, tomato, avocado, caramelized onions, or garlic aioli for added flavor and texture.
- → Can I make these burgers in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 12–14 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
- → How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or substitute with almond flour for a low-carb alternative.