Juicy white cheddar spinach chicken burgers packed with flavor and melty cheese—perfect for healthy lunches, dinners, or summer grilling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier than beef burgers: Lean ground chicken keeps things light while still being filling.
- Packed with flavor: White cheddar, spinach, garlic, and spices bring layers of taste.
- Perfect for meal prep: Make ahead and refrigerate or freeze for quick meals.
- Kid-approved: Mild flavors and cheesy goodness make these burgers a hit with little ones.
- Versatile cooking options: Grill, pan-fry, or bake depending on your preference.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 8–10 whole grain burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, condiments of choice
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, mustard, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Divide mixture into 8–10 equal portions and shape into 1/2-inch thick patties. Use your thumb to create a shallow indentation in the center of each.
- Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface.
- Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Toast buns if desired. Add lettuce to bottom buns, top with patties, tomato slices, condiments, and finish with top buns.
Servings And Timing
Servings: 8–10 burgers
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes
Calories per serving: 300 kcal
Variations
- Spicy version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the mix.
- Cheese swap: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda instead of white cheddar.
- Low-carb: Serve in lettuce wraps or over a salad instead of buns.
- Baked option: Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- Mini sliders: Make smaller patties for parties or snacks.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot.
- Freezing: Freeze raw or cooked patties in a single layer, then transfer to freezer bags. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking or reheating.
FAQs
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead Of Fresh?
Yes, thaw it first and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mixture.
How Do I Prevent The Patties From Falling Apart?
Chilling them for at least 30 minutes helps them hold together while cooking.
Can I Grill These Burgers?
Yes, they’re great on the grill. Be sure to oil the grates well and handle gently.
What Can I Use Instead Of Breadcrumbs?
Try almond flour, crushed oats, or gluten-free breadcrumbs as alternatives.
Can I Make These Burgers Dairy-Free?
Yes, use a dairy-free cheese or omit the cheese entirely.
What’s The Best Way To Check Doneness?
Use a meat thermometer—165°F (74°C) is the safe internal temperature for ground chicken.
Can I Make These Into Meatballs Instead?
Absolutely. Roll into balls and bake or pan-fry as a protein-packed snack or meal.
Are These Suitable For Kids?
Yes! The mild flavors and cheesy texture make them kid-friendly.
Can I Use Turkey Instead Of Chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works just as well in this recipe.
Do I Need To Add Oil To The Pan Or Grill?
Yes, a light coating of oil helps prevent sticking and creates a better sear.
Conclusion
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious, nutritious alternative to traditional burgers. With bold flavors and juicy texture, they’re a perfect fit for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or your next cookout. Easy to make and easy to love, these burgers are sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
More Bold, Cheesy & Protein-Packed Recipes You’ll Love
If these White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers made your meal, you’ll love diving into more high-flavor, protein-rich creations. Spice up your burger nights with the crispy, juicy Mozzarella Stuffed Chicken with Spinach & Peppers—a cheesy, veggie-loaded delight. For a fun twist on comfort food, don’t miss the hearty Mac and Cheese Meatloaf Casserole. If you’re after a creative appetizer, the gooey Cheesy Crab Stuffed Crescent Bites bring a savory seafood punch. Keep it handheld and flavorful with Ground Beef Tortilla Wraps, and for a bite-sized alternative, try the crisp and creamy Crispy Fried Cheese Bites.
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White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8–10 servings 1x
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
Juicy ground chicken burgers infused with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar, seasoned to perfection. A healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers, ideal for weeknight dinners or summer grilling.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 8–10 whole grain burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, condiments of choice
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Divide the mixture into 8–10 equal portions and shape into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Create a slight depression in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent bulging during cooking.
- Place formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to firm up.
- Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface with olive oil. Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and juices run clear.
- Toast burger buns if desired. Arrange lettuce on bottom buns, add cooked patties, top with tomato slices and desired condiments, then cover with top buns.
Notes
- Refrigerating the patties helps maintain shape and prevents them from falling apart during cooking.
- You can freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months—thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Try swapping cheddar with pepper jack or gouda for a different flavor profile.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling or Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with bun
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 430mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 95mg