These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are juicy and delicious! Packed with fresh spinach and creamy white cheddar, they are a tasty twist on a classic burger.
When I make these, I love the way the cheese melts and makes each bite feel special. Pair them with your favorite toppings, and you’ll be smiling at every bite! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: The star of this burger! If you want a lean option, ground turkey works great too. For a richer taste, use ground beef or pork, but be mindful of the fat content.
Fresh Spinach: Fresh is best for a vibrant flavor. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach—just thaw and squeeze out the excess moisture first.
White Cheddar Cheese: This cheese adds a nice sharpness. You can swap it for mozzarella for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Just use your favorite cheese!
Brioche Buns: These buns are soft and slightly sweet. If you can’t find brioche, try whole wheat buns or even lettuce wraps for a lighter version.
Herbs: Fresh parsley gives a nice touch, but if you don’t have it, basil or even dried herbs can work. Just use about a third of what you would of fresh, as dried is more potent.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Burgers Don’t Fall Apart?
Forming your patties without overworking the meat is key to keeping them tender. Here are some steps to help:
- Combine ingredients gently until just mixed. More mixing equals tougher burgers!
- Make sure the patties are about the same thickness (around ¾ inch) for even cooking.
- Chilling patties in the fridge for 10-15 minutes before cooking helps them hold their shape.
Don’t forget to cook them on medium heat and cover them with a lid while they cook, helping them stay moist and cook through evenly!
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded (plus extra slices for topping)
For Assembling:
- 4 sesame seed brioche buns
- 4 large fresh spinach leaves (for layering)
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1 tbsp olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
- Optional: mayonnaise, mustard, or preferred burger sauce
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and roughly 15-20 minutes of cooking time. Total time is around 30 to 35 minutes, making it perfect for a delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and chopped parsley if you’re using it. Mix everything gently but make sure not to overwork the mixture. This helps keep the patties tender!
2. Forming the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Keep them uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Preheating the Grill or Skillet:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the olive oil to coat the bottom—this will help prevent sticking!
4. Cooking the Patties:
Place the chicken patties on the grill or skillet and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on one side until they are browned and cooked halfway through.
5. Adding the Cheese:
Gently flip the patties and immediately add the shredded white cheddar cheese or a slice on top of each patty. This will melt nicely while they finish cooking.
6. Melting the Cheese:
Cover the grill or skillet with a lid or some foil to help the cheese melt while the patties finish cooking. Cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Toasting the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, toast your brioche buns on the grill or in a toaster for a few minutes until they are lightly golden.
8. Assembling the Burgers:
To assemble, spread a little mayonnaise or your favorite burger sauce on the bottom bun. Next, add a fresh spinach leaf and a slice or two of the tomato.
9. Finishing Touches:
Place the cheesy chicken patty on top of the veggies, and then cover it up with the top bun. Your delicious burger is ready!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your juicy burgers hot with a side of fries or your favorite side dish. Enjoy your homemade White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield flavorful burgers. Just be mindful that turkey may be a little leaner than chicken, so don’t overcook it to keep the patties juicy.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes, you can! Finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms would add great flavor and moisture. Just make sure to adjust the amount so the mixture stays cohesive!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave or a skillet until warmed through—add a tiny splash of broth or water in the pan to help keep them moist.
Can I Freeze the Patties Before Cooking?
Definitely! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Just make sure they are well-wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months—thaw in the refrigerator before cooking for the best results.