These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers aren’t just delicious; they are surprisingly simple to whip up, making them perfect for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for weekend grilling. Forget dry, bland chicken patties – this recipe guarantees a moist, flavorful burger every single time, thanks to a few easy tricks.
The combination of savory chicken, earthy spinach, and sharp cheddar creates a taste sensation that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to ditch boring dinners? Try these incredible White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers tonight—you won’t believe how simple achieving burger perfection can be! They are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser and a fantastic way to sneak some healthy greens onto the plate.
Ingredients :
- 1 lb Ground Chicken: (Use lean ground chicken for a healthier option, or a mix with dark meat for extra flavor and moisture. Learn more about chicken nutrition information from the Mayo Clinic.)
- 1 cup Fresh Spinach, finely chopped: (Ensure it’s washed and thoroughly dried. You can also use frozen, thawed spinach – just squeeze out all excess water.) Packed with nutrients, spinach adds color and goodness. Explore more about spinach health benefits from the National Institutes of Health.
- ¾ cup Sharp White Cheddar Cheese, shredded: (Freshly shredded melts best!)
- ¼ cup Breadcrumbs: (Panko or regular, helps bind the burgers.)
- 1 Large Egg, lightly beaten: (Acts as a binder.)
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced: (Adds essential savory flavor.)
- ¼ cup Onion, finely minced (optional, but recommended): (Adds moisture and flavor.)
- 1 tsp Salt: (Or to taste.)
- ½ tsp Black Pepper: (Freshly ground is best.)
- ½ tsp Paprika (optional): (Adds a touch of color and smoky flavor.)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Cooking Oil: (For pan-frying.)
- 4 Burger Buns: (Brioche, whole wheat, or your favorite.)
- Optional Toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion rings, pickles, avocado, bacon, favorite sauce (mayonnaise, aioli, ketchup, mustard).
- User-Provided Tip Simulation: For extra richness, a reader suggested adding 1-2 tablespoons of cream cheese to the mixture – it makes them incredibly moist!
- Universal Tip 1: Don’t Overmix: Gently combine the burger ingredients until just mixed. Overworking the ground chicken can lead to tough, dense burgers.
- Universal Tip 2: Chill Patties Briefly: If time permits, chilling the formed patties for 15-30 minutes helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: If using fresh spinach, chop it finely. If using frozen, thaw it completely and squeeze out as much water as possible using your hands or a clean kitchen towel. Excess moisture can make the burgers fall apart. Why? Removing water ensures the burgers bind properly and prevents sogginess.
- Combine Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, chopped (and dried) spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, beaten egg, minced garlic, optional minced onion, salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Use your hands or a fork to mix until the ingredients are just incorporated. Why gentle mixing? Overmixing develops the proteins in the chicken too much, resulting in tough burgers instead of tender ones.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about ¾-inch thick. Avoid packing them too tightly. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. Why the indent? This helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up excessively in the middle, ensuring a flat surface for toppings.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Pan-Frying: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side. Why medium heat? This allows the burgers to cook through evenly without burning the outside before the inside is done.
- Grilling: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly oil the grates. Grill the patties for about 5-7 minutes per side.
- Check for Doneness: The chicken burgers are done when they are golden brown and cooked through. The most reliable way to check is with an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the patty – it should register 165°F (74°C). Why use a thermometer? It guarantees food safety and prevents overcooking, which leads to dry burgers.
- Rest the Burgers: Once cooked, transfer the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers to a clean plate and let them rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. Why rest? This allows the juices within the burger to redistribute, resulting in a significantly juicier and more flavorful bite.
- Assemble: While the burgers rest, lightly toast your burger buns on the skillet or grill, if desired. Assemble the burgers by placing a patty on the bottom bun and adding your favorite toppings. Enjoy immediately!
Servings Ideas
Serving these delicious White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers is all about complementing their savory, cheesy goodness. Think beyond just the bun! For a classic approach, serve them on toasted brioche buns – the slight sweetness pairs beautifully with the sharp cheddar. Layer with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and thin red onion rings for freshness and crunch. A dollop of creamy garlic aioli or a zesty pesto mayonnaise adds another layer of flavor complexity.
Want to elevate the presentation? Serve the burger slightly open-faced on the plate, leaning the top bun against the patty to show off the melted cheddar and spinach flecks. Garnish the plate with a sprig of fresh parsley or dill. For pairings, you can’t go wrong with crispy sweet potato fries or classic shoestring fries.
A light, tangy coleslaw or a simple side salad with a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast. For a heartier meal, consider grilled corn on the cob or roasted asparagus spears. You could even get creative with sides inspired by cheesy comfort food, perhaps like the concept behind these Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Garlic Bread Subs – imagine a mini version as a decadent side! Ultimately, these versatile White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers provide a fantastic canvas for your favorite burger accompaniments.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen spinach for these chicken burgers?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen spinach works well, but the key is to thaw it completely and then squeeze out all the excess moisture. Place the thawed spinach in a clean kitchen towel or several layers of paper towels and wring it out thoroughly. If you skip this step, the extra water can make your burger mixture too wet, causing the patties to fall apart during cooking and resulting in a less desirable texture. Finely chop it after squeezing.
2. What other cheeses can I substitute for white cheddar?
While sharp white cheddar provides a wonderful tangy flavor, feel free to experiment! Other great options include regular sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Pepper Jack (for a spicy kick), Provolone, Swiss, Gruyère, or even crumbled Feta or Goat Cheese for a different flavor profile. Choose a cheese that melts well and complements the chicken and spinach.
3. Can I prepare these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you have a couple of options. You can mix the ingredients and form the patties, then store them uncooked in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Separate patties with wax paper to prevent sticking. Alternatively, you can cook the burgers completely, let them cool, and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet, oven, or microwave until warmed through.
4. How do I ensure my chicken burgers are juicy and not dry?
Several factors contribute to juicy chicken burgers:
- Don’t overmix: Mix the ingredients until just combined.
- Fat content: Using ground chicken with some dark meat (like ground thigh) adds more fat and flavor, leading to juicier burgers. If using very lean ground breast, consider adding a little olive oil or mayonnaise to the mixture.
- Don’t overcook: Use a meat thermometer! Chicken is safe at 165°F (74°C). Cooking much beyond this temperature will dry it out quickly.
- Resting: Letting the burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking allows the juices to redistribute.
- Adding moisture: Ingredients like minced onion, the egg, and cheese help retain moisture.
5. Can I bake these chicken burgers instead of frying or grilling?
Yes, baking is a great option! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or lightly greased. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Baking might not yield the same crust as pan-frying or grilling, but it’s a convenient and less messy method.
6. Are these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers healthy?
They can certainly be part of a healthy diet! Ground chicken is a lean protein source (Mayo Clinic – Chicken nutrition information), and spinach is packed with vitamins and minerals (NIH – Spinach health benefits). To maximize the health factor, use lean ground chicken, opt for whole wheat buns, load up on fresh veggie toppings, and consider baking instead of frying. Portion control with the cheese and any creamy sauces also helps.
Conclusion
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are truly a game-changer for your dinner routine. They offer a fantastic combination of savory flavor, cheesy goodness, and nutritional benefits from the spinach, all wrapped up in a juicy, satisfying patty. The ease of preparation makes them perfect for busy weeknights, yet they feel special enough for guests or a weekend barbecue. You’ve seen how simple it is to bring these flavorful chicken burgers to life, moving far beyond basic burger territory. I encourage you to embrace the process and enjoy the delicious results!
Pro Tip: For an extra flavor boost, try adding ¼ teaspoon of onion powder and ¼ teaspoon of smoked paprika to the chicken mixture along with the other seasonings.
Pro Tip: Ensure your spinach is chopped very finely. This helps it distribute evenly throughout the patty and prevents large clumps, ensuring a better texture and bind.
Looking for variations? Try swapping the spinach for finely chopped kale (massaged first) or adding ¼ cup of sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained, and chopped) for a Mediterranean twist. You could also incorporate different herbs like fresh dill or parsley. If you enjoy easy and flavorful chicken dishes, you might also love this Heavenly Slow Cooker Chicken Delight. Happy cooking – I hope you love these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers as much as I do!
PrintWhite Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers: Easy & Flavorful Recipe
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and packed with savory chicken, vibrant spinach, and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend grilling, they’re a healthier, delicious upgrade to your burger game and a sure crowd-pleaser!
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Fried or Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Fresh Spinach, finely chopped
- ¾ cup Sharp White Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- ¼ cup Breadcrumbs
- 1 Large Egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Onion, finely minced (optional)
- 1 tsp Salt
- ½ tsp Black Pepper
- ½ tsp Paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil or Cooking Oil
- 4 Burger Buns
- Optional Toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion rings, pickles, avocado, bacon, favorite sauce (mayonnaise, aioli, ketchup, mustard)
Instructions
- Prepare the spinach: finely chop fresh spinach or thaw and squeeze dry frozen spinach to remove moisture.
- In a large bowl, gently combine ground chicken, spinach, cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion, salt, pepper, and paprika. Mix until just incorporated.
- Divide mixture into four portions and gently form into patties about ¾-inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Alternatively, grill patties over medium heat, 5-7 minutes per side.
- Rest the cooked burgers for 3-5 minutes before assembling.
- Lightly toast burger buns if desired. Assemble burgers with desired toppings and serve immediately.
Notes
Don’t overmix the burger mixture; mix gently for tender burgers. Chill patties for 15-30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape better.