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
Scale
- 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