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Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa are the easiest way to bring juicy flavor and a bit of summer freshness to any weeknight meal. These burgers win everyone over with their tender texture and a colorful salsa that feels bright and creamy in every bite.
The first time I tried this recipe it was an instant hit with my family We loved how the cheesy chicken patty pairs with the zesty avocado topping
Ingredients
- Ground chicken thighs: These are more flavorful and juicy than breast meat Use fresh chicken for best texture
- Scallions: Chopped up they add a gentle oniony crunch Pick ones with crisp bright green tops
- Shredded cheese: Cheddar Gouda or provolone bring extra richness and a melty bite I like to shred my own straight from the block
- Mayonnaise: Keeps the patties moist and adds extra flavor Go with full fat for best results
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors Use fine sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper if possible
- Avocado: Ripe but still slightly firm avocados give the best creamy slices Gently press near the stem to check ripeness
- Fresh corn: The natural sweetness of fresh kernels really pops in the salsa Remove husks and silk right before slicing
- Fresh cilantro: Adds herby brightness Look for bunches with no slimy leaves or yellowing
- Olive oil: A drizzle rounds out the salsa and helps flavors meld Choose extra virgin for best taste
- Lime: Fresh juice lifts the whole salsa with a burst of acid Roll the lime before juicing to get more liquid
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Chicken Patty Mix:
- Add the ground chicken to a medium bowl followed by the shredded cheese chopped scallions mayonnaise salt and pepper Use your hands or a large spoon to mix everything just until combined Do not overwork or the patties can get tough
- Form and Shape the Patties:
- Scoop out a half cup of the chicken mixture for each patty Shape gently into rounds about three quarters of an inch thick Laying them on a parchment lined tray can help if the mixture feels sticky
- Grill the Chicken Burgers:
- Preheat your outdoor grill or a grill pan to medium heat Place the patties onto the hot surface Cook undisturbed on the first side for about five minutes Flip carefully with a spatula and continue grilling for another five minutes or until the burgers are cooked through and the cheese is melted You are looking for an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit
- Prepare the Avocado Corn Salsa:
- While the burgers are grilling remove the kernels from the ear of corn using a sharp knife Put the corn sliced avocado and chopped cilantro into a mixing bowl Drizzle with olive oil and squeeze over fresh lime juice Season with a pinch of salt and pepper Stir gently so the avocado keeps its shape
- Serve the Burgers:
- Arrange the grilled chicken patties on plates and spoon generous amounts of Avocado Corn Salsa right over the top Serve immediately for best flavor and texture
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You Must Know
- Packed with lean protein and healthy fats from avocado
- Naturally gluten free if served without buns
- Can be customized with your favorite cheese or extra toppings
I always look forward to making this salsa because the fresh corn is my personal favorite I remember our first backyard cookout with these burgers and friends kept asking me for the recipe all night
Storage Tips
Leftover cooked chicken burgers keep well in the fridge for up to three days stored in an airtight container The avocado corn salsa is best enjoyed fresh but will last up to one day if tightly covered and refrigerated
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Ingredient Substitutions
- No fresh corn Swap in thawed frozen kernels
- No cilantro Use flat leaf parsley or a mix of chives and parsley
- Can not find ground chicken Use ground turkey for an equally tasty result
Serving Suggestions
- These taste amazing on their own for a low carb dinner or serve on toasted buns with crisp lettuce and tomato
- Pile extra salsa on the side or add a scoop to a mixed green salad
- For a bigger spread offer sweet potato fries or grilled vegetable skewers
Cultural or Historical Context
Chicken burgers are a lighter take on the classic American beef burger Swapping in avocado and fresh summer corn salsa brings a bit of modern California flair and celebrates easy seasonal eating
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can ground turkey be used instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works as an alternative, though it may be slightly leaner and benefit from extra seasoning or mayo for moisture.
- → What cheese varieties are best for the patties?
Cheddar, gouda, or provolone melt beautifully and add flavor, but you can use any favorite cheese that melts well.
- → Do I need to cook the corn before making the salsa?
No, raw corn kernels add a sweet crunch, but you can grill or steam the corn lightly if preferred.
- → How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?
The patties are ready when golden brown on both sides and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- → Can I prepare the salsa ahead of time?
It's best fresh, but you can chop ingredients in advance. Add avocado and dressing just before serving to prevent browning.
- → What can I serve alongside these burgers?
Pair with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, or your favorite fries for a complete meal.