If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger that brings a fresh, wholesome twist to the table, the White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is your new go-to. These burgers are packed with the richness of sharp white cheddar and the vibrant punch of fresh spinach, all nestled inside tender ground chicken patties. Each bite bursts with cheesy goodness and a hint of garlicky aroma, making this recipe both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a casual gathering, these chicken burgers deliver deliciousness every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients together for this recipe is refreshingly straightforward, yet each one plays an essential role in building the perfect balance of flavors and textures. From the sharp white cheddar that adds a creamy tang to the fresh spinach that brings a pop of color and nutrition, each component is thoughtfully selected.
- Ground chicken: This lean protein forms the base of your patties, keeping them moist and tender.
- Fresh spinach: Chopped finely, it adds a touch of earthiness and vibrant green color.
- Sharp white cheddar cheese: Shredded to melt beautifully inside the burger, providing a delicious cheesy kick.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind the patties together and keep them from falling apart during cooking.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses the mix with a subtle but irresistible aroma.
- Onion powder: Adds a gentle onion flavor without the moisture of fresh onions.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the seasoning.
- Black pepper: Offers a mild heat and complexity.
- Olive oil: Used for cooking, it provides a healthy fat that helps achieve a golden brown crust.
- Burger buns: Choose your favorite type, whether classic sesame seed or soft brioche, to complete your burger experience.
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, red onion, mayonnaise, or your go-to condiments to personalize each burger.
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Begin by grabbing a large mixing bowl and adding the ground chicken, chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly distributed. This initial step ensures that the flavors marry perfectly in every bite and the texture stays consistent.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty roughly half an inch thick. This thickness keeps the burgers juicy inside while allowing them to cook evenly on the outside. A uniform size also guarantees that they cook at the same rate.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet with Olive Oil
Place a large skillet over medium heat and pour in the olive oil. Allow it to get hot—this step is important as it helps to form a golden, slightly crispy crust on the chicken patties when cooked. A good sear locks in the juices.
Step 4: Cook the Chicken Patties
Carefully add the patties to the hot skillet. Cook each side for about 5 to 7 minutes until they turn golden brown and cooked through. Use a thermometer if you have one; the internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius) to ensure safety and perfect doneness.
Step 5: Toast the Burger Buns
While your patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns either in the oven or on a griddle. Toasting adds crunch and helps the buns hold up better against the juicy patties and toppings, preventing sogginess.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Once the chicken patties are cooked, place a patty on each toasted bun bottom. Now is the fun part: add any of your favorite toppings like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, creamy avocado, and sharp red onion. These fresh ingredients add layers of texture and flavor.
Step 7: Add Condiments and Serve
Finish off your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe by spreading mayonnaise or your favorite condiments on the bun top. Assemble and serve immediately to enjoy the perfect harmony of warm, melty cheese, savory chicken, and crisp veggies all wrapped in a soft bun.
How to Serve White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
To make your burger truly shine, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like chopped parsley or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky touch. Thin slices of crispy bacon also add an irresistible crunch and savory depth. Bright, crunchy lettuce and ripe tomato slices bring freshness and balance the richness of the cheese and chicken.
Side Dishes
These burgers pair wonderfully with classic sides like sweet potato fries, crispy onion rings, or a light coleslaw to add a tangy contrast. For a healthier angle, a crisp cucumber salad or roasted Brussels sprouts complement the flavors and keep the meal vibrant and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to impress with presentation, serve the burgers open-faced on a wooden board with colorful vegetable spears and a small bowl of dipping sauce. Another fun idea is to turn them into sliders for a party spread, making it easy for everyone to grab and enjoy. Wrapping them in parchment paper tied with rustic twine adds charming, casual style to your meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover patties, place them in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Keeping them chilled properly maintains their freshness and flavor without drying out.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze uncooked patties individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a sealed freezer bag. This method prevents sticking and allows you to cook just what you need later. Frozen patties keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the cooked patties in a skillet over medium heat, or pop them in the oven until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry out the chicken. Reheating this way helps maintain their juicy texture and melty cheese goodness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh in the White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it in. This prevents your patties from becoming soggy.
Is ground chicken a healthy option for burgers?
Absolutely! Ground chicken is a leaner alternative to ground beef, making these burgers a lighter choice without compromising on flavor or texture.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them altogether by using an egg as a binding agent to keep the patties together.
What cheeses work well besides white cheddar?
While white cheddar is perfect for its sharpness, you can try pepper jack for a spicy kick, mozzarella for a milder melt, or gouda for a smoky flavor.
How can I tell when the burgers are fully cooked?
The safest method is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should be 165°F (74°C). The patties should also be golden brown and firm to the touch.
Final Thoughts
Making the White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is a wonderful way to bring fresh, bold flavors to your dinner table without fuss. It’s a recipe that feels special but comes together quickly, perfect for any day of the week. So go ahead, gather your ingredients, and enjoy crafting these tasty, cheesy, and vibrant chicken burgers that everyone is sure to love.
Print
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 15m
- Total Time: 0h 30m
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and wholesome twist on the classic chicken burger, combining fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese for added flavor and nutrition. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, these patties are cooked to juicy perfection in a skillet and served on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 burger buns
Optional Toppings
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Avocado
- Red onion
- Mayonnaise or favorite condiments
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into a patty roughly 1/2-inch thick.
- Heat Oil: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken patties to the skillet.
- Cook Patties: Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Toast Buns: While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns in the oven or on a griddle.
- Assemble Burgers: Once the patties are cooked, assemble the burgers by placing a patty on each bun. Add your preferred toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, and red onion.
- Serve: Serve the burgers with mayonnaise or any favorite condiment of your choice.
Notes
- Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken patties reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- For a lower-carb option, serve the patties without buns or with lettuce wraps instead.
- You can substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
- Feel free to customize the toppings to your preference, adding things like pickles or cheese slices.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated and reheated in a skillet or microwave within 2 days.
