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These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are my answer to lighter comfort food that never skimps on flavor or juiciness. They sneak in plenty of greens with a satisfying punch of cheddar for extra cheesy goodness. Whether it is a busy weeknight or a fun cookout with friends, these burgers are always a win at my table.
My family requested these after a picnic and now they are a sunny day staple This recipe first happened when I needed something green in our dinner that my kids would not pick out and it was a hit from the first bite
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: gives juicy and protein packed patties Go for fresh or thawed meat that is cold
- Fresh spinach: finely chopped it melts into the burger without making it watery Look for bright green leaves
- White cheddar cheese: shredded for even melting Choose block cheese for best flavor and grate it yourself
- Breadcrumbs: help bind everything and soak up juices Use plain or seasoned based on what you have
- Onion: finely chopped adds mild sweet lift Aim for fresh not dried
- Garlic: fresh minced brings a deep aroma I like using big cloves for bold flavor
- Dijon mustard: wakes up the mix with a gentle tang Classic Dijon gives the best kick without overwhelming
- Worcestershire sauce: adds a savory background Just a little brings big umami flavor
- Salt and black pepper: for balance and seasoning Taste your mix before forming patties if you want to adjust
- Olive oil: keeps burgers from sticking in the pan Choose a mild one so the flavors shine through
- Burger buns: soft and sturdy are best Pick ones that complement rather than overpower
- Toppings: like lettuce tomato and even extra cheddar can be adjusted for what everyone loves
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix Ingredients:
- Combine the ground chicken spinach cheddar breadcrumbs onion garlic Dijon Worcestershire salt and pepper in a large mixing bowl Use your hands or a spoon to fold everything together until evenly mixed but avoid overworking to keep burgers tender
- Shape Patties:
- Divide the mix into four equal parts Roll each into a ball then flatten gently between your palms to about half an inch thick Use your thumb to press a shallow spot in the middle of each patty which helps them stay flat when cooking
- Cook First Side:
- Heat your skillet or grill pan over medium and coat lightly with olive oil Once hot gently place each patty in without crowding Cook them undisturbed for five to six minutes letting the first side form a golden brown crust
- Flip and Finish Cooking:
- Use a wide spatula to turn patties carefully Cook the second side for another five to six minutes until the inside is fully cooked and the temperature is at least 165 degrees Let them sit in the pan off heat for a minute to lock in juices
- Rest Patties:
- Transfer the burgers to a plate and let them sit for a couple minutes so they stay juicy and firm up slightly before serving
- Assemble and Serve:
- Put each patty on a fresh bun Add your favorite toppings like crisp lettuce or ripe tomato If you want an extra cheesy hit add a slice to melt in the pan for the last minute Serve hot and enjoy immediately
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My favorite part of this recipe is how spinach almost disappears into the burger so even picky eaters gobble it up I will never forget the look on my younger son’s face when he polished off his first green flecked burger thinking it was just some fancy cheese
Storage tips
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days They reheat best in a covered skillet over gentle heat or you can microwave in short bursts Tossing cold patties on a hot grill for a minute revives that fresh flavor even after a day or two
Ingredient substitutions
You can swap ground chicken for turkey or even lean pork if needed For the cheese mozzarella or Monterey Jack give a milder burger but still melt beautifully Panko works in place of regular breadcrumbs and baby kale can stand in for spinach for a different green
Serving suggestions
These burgers are perfect with classic sides like sweet potato fries or a green salad For extra freshness try a quick slaw or cucumber ribbons on top If you want to turn things low carb just skip the bun and serve in lettuce leaves
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Cultural context
Chicken burgers are a lighter spinoff of the classic American beef burger This version taps into modern tastes for lean protein and sneaks greens into comfort food without sacrificing taste or texture The creamy cheddar makes it feel special while still having familiar flavors
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use pre-shredded cheese instead of freshly grated?
Yes, pre-shredded white cheddar works well, though freshly grated may melt more evenly in the patties.
- → Can these be made ahead of time?
Absolutely. Shape the patties in advance and refrigerate for up to a day, then cook when ready to serve.
- → What is the best way to cook these burgers?
A skillet or grill pan over medium heat ensures even browning and a juicy interior. Grill outdoors if preferred.
- → Are there gluten-free options for breadcrumbs?
Simply substitute regular breadcrumbs with a gluten-free alternative to suit dietary needs.
- → What toppings pair well with these burgers?
Classic choices like lettuce, tomato, and extra cheese add freshness, while avocado or red onion enhance flavor.
- → Can turkey be used instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a suitable alternative and provides a similar texture and flavor profile.