If you’re looking for a delicious upgrade to your typical burger night, then these White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers are just what you need! Juicy, cheesy, and brimming with fresh spinach, these burgers offer a delightful blend of taste and nutrition that will satisfy both the meat lover and the health-conscious diner at your table. This recipe not only brings a lighter twist to the classic burger but also packs a punch of flavor that makes for an exciting weeknight meal or a casual yet memorable cookout with friends and family.
One of the significant benefits of these chicken burgers is their versatility. They are incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients while still delivering maximum flavor. Ground chicken is not only a lean protein option, but when combined with the creaminess of white cheddar and the vibrant taste of fresh spinach, you end up with burgers that won’t weigh you down yet remain incredibly fulfilling. Whether you’re serving them on toasted burger buns or opting for lighter accompaniments like lettuce wraps, these burgers are guaranteed to hit the spot.
This recipe also offers ample room for customization according to your taste preferences, allowing you to switch up ingredients from the base to the toppings. From spicy sliders to hearty burger stacks, let your creativity flow as you prepare these delightful bites!
Why You’ll Love This White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burger
- Flavorful: The combination of white cheddar, spinach, and seasonings makes each bite burst with taste.
- Healthy Twist: Ground chicken and fresh spinach make these burgers a lighter alternative to traditional beef patties.
- Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on burger buns, in lettuce wraps, or even as a salad topping.
- Simple Preparation: Easy to make with just a few ingredients and minimal cooking time.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make ahead and freeze for quick future meals!
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the delicious world of White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers, it’s essential to prepare your kitchen adequately. Start by gathering all your ingredients and tools. Ensure you have a large mixing bowl for combining your ingredients, a sharp knife and cutting board for chopping the spinach and onions, and a skillet or grill pan for cooking the patties. A spatula or tongs will also be handy for flipping the burgers.
As you prepare the workspace, clean and sanitize your cutting board and knife to avoid cross-contamination. A good idea is to set up a small assembly line: have your ground chicken, spinach, and spices lined up for quick access. Additionally, preheat your skillet or grill pan to medium heat and have your olive oil ready for cooking the patties. With everything organized and within reach, you’ll streamline the burger-making process, making it more enjoyable and less stressful.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Spinach
Start by sautéing the spinach in a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted and vibrant in color. This process not only softens the greens but also enhances their flavor. After cooking, allow the spinach to cool slightly, then squeeze out any excess moisture to prevent your burger mixture from becoming soggy. Chop it finely and set it aside for later.
Step 2: Mix the Patties
In a large mixing bowl, gather your ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, minced garlic, diced onion, egg, breadcrumbs (or panko), salt, pepper, paprika, and optional Italian seasoning. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients gently. Be careful not to overmix, as this can lead to tougher burgers. Just combine everything until you have a cohesive mixture.
Step 3: Shape the Burgers
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions for uniform cooking. Shape each portion into a patty that is approximately ¾-inch thick, making a slight indent in the center of each patty to help them cook more evenly. This step also prevents the patties from puffing up during cooking, ensuring a consistent texture throughout.
Step 4: Cook the Burgers
Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in your skillet or grill pan over medium heat until the oil begins to shimmer. Carefully add the patties to the skillet, cooking for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side. You want them to turn golden brown, and always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption. This step ensures that the burgers are cooked through while maintaining their juicy texture and cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Assemble & Serve
Once cooked, remove the patties from the heat and let them rest for a minute. While they rest, you can toast your burger buns if desired. Assemble the burgers by placing the patty on a toasted bun and adding your preferred toppings such as lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and your choice of sauce—be it Dijon mustard or garlic mayo for an extra flavor kick. Serve hot and enjoy!
Variations
- Protein: Substitute ground chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables like sun-dried tomatoes, shredded carrots, or bell peppers for even more nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices like cayenne for a spicy kick or fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your skillet is well-heated before adding the patties to achieve a good sear.
- If freezing, place uncooked patties between parchment paper in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- Feel free to double the recipe if serving a crowd; leftovers also make a great lunch!
- Don’t skip resting the patties after cooking; it allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring juicy bites.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve on a fresh toasted bun with your choice of toppings, like avocado or spicy slaw.
- Pair with sweet potato fries or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
- For a lower-carb option, serve the burger patty on a bed of mixed greens with a side of roasted vegetables.
Tips
- For added flavor, consider marinating the ground chicken with your favorite spices before mixing in with the other ingredients.
- If you have leftovers, crumble cooked patties over salads or mix them into pasta for a quick next-day meal.
- Experiment with different cheeses; pepper jack or feta can also provide an exciting flavor profile.
- Keep an eye on the burgers while cooking—ground chicken can cook quicker than you might expect.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 300 per serving
- Protein: 28g
- Sodium: 400mg
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used! Just make sure to thaw and drain it well to remove excess water before adding it to your mixture.
How can I store leftovers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or you can freeze them for longer storage.
What toppings go best with these chicken burgers?
Popular toppings include avocado, fresh herbs, BBQ sauce, or even a spicy aioli for an added kick!
Can I cook these burgers on the grill?
Absolutely! They can be grilled on medium heat, just be sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers are an exceptional addition to your dinner rotation, offering a perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease of preparation. With their juicy texture and cheesy allure, they are destined to become a family favorite! Don’t hesitate to get creative with seasonings, toppings, and side dishes to make this meal uniquely yours. We hope you enjoy trying this recipe as much as we do, and we encourage you to let us know your favorite variations in the comments below. Happy cooking!
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White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy, cheesy, and brimming with fresh spinach, these burgers offer a delightful blend of taste and nutrition.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs or panko
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Instructions
- Start by sautéing the spinach in a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Cook for about 1 to 2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach is wilted. Allow the spinach to cool slightly, then squeeze out any excess moisture and chop finely.
- In a large mixing bowl, gather your ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, minced garlic, diced onion, egg, breadcrumbs, salt, pepper, paprika, and optional Italian seasoning. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients gently.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty, making a slight indent in the center to help them cook evenly.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Carefully add the patties, cooking for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until golden brown, ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Let the patties rest for a minute before assembling on toasted buns with your preferred toppings.
Notes
Feel free to customize ingredients and toppings according to your preferences.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 300 kcal
- Sodium: 400 mg
- Protein: 28 g