Description: These White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic burger. Packed with lean protein, fresh spinach, and flavorful white cheddar cheese, these burgers are a satisfying and nutritious meal option. Quick to prepare and easy to customize with your favorite toppings, they’re perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ. These burgers offer a great way to sneak in some extra greens and enjoy a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken (preferably lean)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 small red onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 whole grain burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, mustard, or Greek yogurt spread
Preparation:
Step 1: Preparing the Chicken Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, finely diced red onion, minced garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Use clean hands or a spatula to mix the ingredients until they are just combined. Be careful not to overmix the chicken, as this can result in tough burgers. Overmixing activates the proteins in the chicken, causing it to become dense and less tender when cooked. The goal is to evenly distribute the ingredients without compacting the mixture.
Step 2: Forming the Patties
Once the ingredients are mixed, form the mixture into 4 evenly sized patties, each about ½ inch thick. Ensure that each patty is uniform in shape to promote even cooking. A slightly thicker patty will retain more moisture during cooking, resulting in a juicier burger. Gently press down on the patties to flatten them slightly. After forming the patties, place them on a plate or tray lined with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Refrigerating the Patties
Refrigerate the patties for at least 15 minutes. Chilling the patties helps them hold their shape during cooking and prevents them from falling apart on the grill or in the pan. The cold temperature firms up the proteins in the chicken mixture, making the patties more cohesive. This step is particularly important when using ground chicken, which tends to be softer than ground beef. While the patties are chilling, prepare your toppings and set up your cooking station.
Step 4: Cooking the Burgers
Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Allow the pan to heat up properly before adding the patties to ensure they sear nicely and don’t stick. Once the pan is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan, leaving enough space between them to ensure even cooking. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. Insert the thermometer into the thickest part of the patty, being careful not to touch the pan.
Step 5: Toasting the Buns
While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns in the oven or on a dry pan until slightly crisp. Toasting the buns adds a pleasant texture and prevents them from becoming soggy when you add the burger and toppings. You can toast the buns in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for a few minutes, or simply place them face down in a dry pan over medium heat for 1-2 minutes per side. Watch them closely to prevent burning.
Step 6: Assembling the Burgers
Once the patties are cooked and the buns are toasted, it’s time to assemble your burgers. Place a patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add your desired toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, or a dollop of mustard or Greek yogurt. The possibilities are endless when it comes to toppings, so feel free to get creative and customize your burger to your liking.
Step 7: Serving the Burgers
Top with the other half of the bun and serve warm. These White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers are delicious on their own, but they also pair well with a variety of sides. Consider serving them with baked sweet potato fries or a crisp garden salad for a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You’ll love this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burger recipe because it’s a healthy and flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers. The addition of spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also adds moisture and a subtle earthy flavor. The white cheddar cheese provides a creamy, tangy contrast that complements the lean chicken and vegetables perfectly. These burgers are quick to make, easy to customize, and a great way to enjoy a lighter, more nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with baked sweet potato fries for a healthier alternative to regular fries.
- Pair with a crisp garden salad dressed with a light vinaigrette.
- Offer a variety of toppings such as lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, pickles, and your favorite condiments.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or potato salad for a classic BBQ feel.
- Consider adding a side of steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli, asparagus, or carrots.
Tips:
- Don’t overmix the chicken mixture to keep the burgers tender.
- Refrigerate the patties before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the burgers are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Toast the buns to prevent them from becoming soggy.
- Get creative with your toppings to customize the burgers to your liking.
- For extra flavor, try marinating the ground chicken with herbs and spices before mixing the patties.
- If you don’t have white cheddar, you can substitute it with another cheese like Monterey Jack, provolone, or mozzarella.
- To make the burgers even healthier, use whole wheat buns and opt for low-fat toppings like Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise.
Prep Time:
15 minutes
Cook Time:
15 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information:
(Estimated per serving, without toppings)
- Calories: 310 kcal
- Protein: 35g
- Sodium: 350mg
Conclusion
These White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers are a fantastic addition to your recipe repertoire. They offer a delightful balance of flavor and nutrition, making them a guilt-free indulgence for any day of the week. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing option for a barbecue, these burgers are sure to impress. The combination of lean chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy white cheddar creates a truly satisfying culinary experience. So, fire up the grill or heat up your skillet and enjoy these delicious and healthy burgers today!
Questions and Answers:
- Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh spinach?
- Yes, you can use frozen spinach in this recipe. Be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out any excess moisture before adding it to the chicken mixture. Excess moisture can make the burgers soggy and difficult to form.
- What can I use as a substitute for white cheddar cheese?
- If you don’t have white cheddar cheese on hand, you can substitute it with another cheese like Monterey Jack, provolone, or mozzarella. These cheeses will provide a similar creamy texture and mild flavor that complements the other ingredients in the burger.
- How can I make these burgers gluten-free?
- To make these burgers gluten-free, simply use gluten-free burger buns or serve the patties without buns. Be sure to check the labels of any condiments or toppings to ensure they are also gluten-free.
- Can I cook these burgers in the oven?
- Yes, you can cook these burgers in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- How can I store leftover burgers?
- Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them thoroughly before serving, either in the microwave, oven, or skillet. You can also freeze the cooked burgers for longer storage, but be sure to wrap them individually to prevent freezer burn.
