If you’re craving a burger that bursts with fresh, vibrant flavors and a hint of smokiness, then this Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe is just what your taste buds need. Juicy chicken patties seasoned perfectly with cumin and smoked paprika come alive topped with a creamy, zesty avocado corn salsa that adds a delightful texture and a refreshing kick. Whether you’re cooking for a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a backyard barbecue, this dish is a deliciously wholesome alternative to the traditional beef burger, and it’s sure to become a new favorite in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These simple, wholesome ingredients are the magic behind this Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe, each one playing a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish truly stand out.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean, tender base that keeps the burgers juicy and healthy.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Adds a subtle aromatic kick that enhances the chicken’s natural flavor.
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely chopped): Provides a mild sharpness and slight crunch for texture.
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro: Fresh and vibrant, cilantro brings a herbaceous brightness to the patties and salsa.
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin: Offers warm, earthy undertones that pair beautifully with the chicken.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and a gentle smokiness without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential to enhance all the wonderful flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle heat that balances the seasoning.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Keeps the patties moist and creates a golden crust.
- 1 ripe avocado (diced): Creamy, buttery texture that perfectly complements the corn salsa.
- ½ cup cooked corn kernels: Sweetness and pop of color to brighten the salsa.
- ¼ cup red onion (finely chopped): Adds a crisp, tangy note in the salsa.
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice: Lifts the salsa with a zesty citrus punch.
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro: Reintroduces that fresh herbal aroma in the salsa.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To balance and perfect the salsa seasoning.
- 4 burger buns: Soft and inviting as the assembly base; optional for gluten-free to use lettuce wraps.
- Lettuce leaves: Add crunch and help keep the burger refreshing.
- Optional toppings like mayo or hot sauce: Personalize your burger with your favorite flavors and heat.
How to Make Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties
Start by combining the ground chicken with minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Be gentle as you mix to keep the patties tender—overmixing can make them dense. Once combined, form the mixture into four evenly sized patties, shaping them so they will cook evenly and hold together perfectly.
Step 2: Cook the Burgers
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once shimmering, carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are safely cooked but still juicy and tender inside, which is key for a perfect chicken burger.
Step 3: Make the Avocado Corn Salsa
While the burgers are sizzling away, mix together the diced avocado, cooked corn kernels, finely chopped red onion, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro in a small bowl. Season with salt and pepper, then gently toss everything together to combine without mashing the avocado. This salsa brings bright, creamy, and crisp elements that perfectly balance the smoky, savory patties.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
If you like, toast your burger buns until just golden for an extra layer of texture and warmth. Then, layer each bun with a crisp lettuce leaf, a chicken patty, and a generous spoonful of the avocado corn salsa right on top. Add any optional sauces or toppings you love, and get ready for a flavor-packed bite that’s both hearty and fresh.
How to Serve Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like extra cilantro leaves or thin slices of jalapeño work wonders to elevate this recipe. They add an extra burst of color and flavor that make each burger feel special. A drizzle of creamy mayonnaise or a dash of hot sauce can also bring richness or heat, tailored to your personal cravings.
Side Dishes
Pair these vibrant burgers with light and refreshing sides such as a crisp green salad, sweet potato fries, or even simple roasted vegetables. The cool, citrusy salsa on the burger pairs beautifully with any side that’s mild and bright, making your entire meal well-balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Switch things up by serving the chicken patties over a bed of greens for a low-carb option or use large lettuce leaves as wraps instead of buns to boost the freshness factor. You can also elevate the salsa by adding diced jalapeño or swapping out the corn for grilled corn for more smoky notes. Presentation is a great chance to have fun and tailor the meal to your vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled completely, store any leftover chicken patties and avocado corn salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Patties stay good for up to 3 days, while the salsa is best consumed within 1 to 2 days due to the avocado browning. Keeping them separate helps maintain the freshest texture for your next meal.
Freezing
Chicken patties freeze beautifully for later enjoyment. Simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. It’s best not to freeze the avocado corn salsa as the avocado can become mushy and lose its bright flavor after thawing.
Reheating
To reheat frozen or refrigerated patties, warm them gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven until heated through to avoid drying them out. If you have any leftover salsa, add a squeeze of fresh lime juice before serving to refresh its flavors.
FAQs
Can I make the chicken burger patties ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties a few hours ahead and keep them refrigerated until you’re ready to cook. This makes meal prep a breeze, especially if you’re hosting or planning a quick dinner.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the core recipe is gluten-free if you use gluten-free buns or serve the burgers wrapped in lettuce instead of traditional bread buns. The ingredients themselves contain no gluten.
Can I use frozen corn for the salsa?
Definitely! Frozen corn works perfectly once it’s thawed and drained. Fresh corn is wonderful when in season, but frozen is a convenient and flavorful choice any time of year.
How spicy is this recipe?
The Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe has mild spice thanks to smoked paprika and black pepper, but if you want more heat, adding diced jalapeño to the salsa or a splash of hot sauce when serving is an easy way to kick it up.
What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover patties are great chopped up in a salad or made into a sandwich with whatever toppings you like. The avocado corn salsa can also be scooped onto tacos or crackers for a fresh snack.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the combination of juicy chicken burgers with that creamy, zesty avocado corn salsa that brings summer vibes to your plate anytime. This Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe is an incredible crowd-pleaser that’s simple to make, full of fresh ingredients, and utterly delicious. I can’t wait for you to try it and see how it quickly becomes a favorite for your family and friends!
Print
Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa offer a flavorful and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Juicy ground chicken patties seasoned with smoky spices and fresh herbs are cooked to perfection and topped with a vibrant avocado and corn salsa for a refreshing bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or summer grilling, these burgers combine delicious flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Avocado Corn Salsa:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ½ cup cooked corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Optional toppings like mayo or hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are just combined to avoid dense patties.
- Form Patties: Shape the chicken mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden-brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
- Prepare the Avocado Corn Salsa: While the patties cook, in a small bowl combine the diced avocado, cooked corn kernels, finely chopped red onion, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Season with salt and pepper to taste and gently toss to combine without mashing the avocado.
- Toast the Buns: Optionally, toast the burger buns lightly for extra texture and flavor.
- Assemble and Serve: Layer the lettuce leaves on the bottom half of each bun, place a cooked chicken patty on top, add a generous spoonful of avocado corn salsa, then cover with the top bun. Add optional toppings like mayo or hot sauce as desired. Serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- These burgers can also be grilled outdoors for a smoky flavor.
- For a lighter option, serve the patties over a salad or use lettuce leaves as wraps instead of buns.
- Add diced jalapeño to the salsa for extra heat and spice.
