If you’re looking for a healthier twist on a classic burger, then these White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a must-try. Packed with lean chicken, fresh spinach, and gooey white cheddar, they’re not only super flavorful but also a little lighter than your usual beef burger. Perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
These chicken burgers are the perfect combination of juicy, savory, and cheesy. The spinach adds a fresh, vibrant flavor that pairs beautifully with the rich white cheddar. Plus, they’re so easy to whip up! Whether you’re a busy mom or just someone who loves a good homemade burger, this recipe is sure to become a go-to.
Ingredients
You’ll find the full list of ingredients below, but here’s a sneak peek at what you need:
- Ground chicken
- Fresh spinach
- White cheddar cheese
- Garlic
- Onion powder
- Salt and pepper
Keep reading for the full list!
Directions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Start by chopping the fresh spinach into small pieces. You want to make sure it’s finely chopped so it blends nicely into the chicken. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, spinach, minced garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix it all together using your hands (this is the best way to get everything evenly incorporated).
Step 2: Form the Patties
Once the mixture is well combined, it’s time to form your patties. Wet your hands slightly to prevent the mixture from sticking, then shape the chicken mixture into burger patties, about 1 inch thick. Make sure they’re all roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat a little olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties in the pan. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes or until the burgers are cooked through and golden brown. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure they’re fully cooked.
Step 4: Add the Cheese
When the burgers are almost done, place a slice of white cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt for a minute or two. The gooey melted cheese on top is what makes these burgers extra delicious!
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Once the cheese is melted and the burgers are cooked to perfection, it’s time to assemble. Place each patty on a bun (or lettuce wrap if you’re going low-carb), and top with your favorite condiments. Serve hot and enjoy!
Expert Tips and Tricks
- If you want a little extra flavor, try adding some Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the chicken mixture.
- Make sure not to overwork the chicken when mixing it. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, so be gentle!
- For an even healthier option, swap the regular buns for whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter meal.
Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions
- Cheese Swap: If white cheddar isn’t your favorite, you can easily swap it for any cheese you love. Mozzarella or provolone would work beautifully in this recipe.
- Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, throw in some red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the chicken mixture.
- Vegan Version: Use a plant-based chicken substitute and dairy-free cheese to make this burger vegan-friendly.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are perfect on a classic burger bun, but you can also serve them on a bed of greens for a lighter option. They pair wonderfully with crispy baked sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad. If you’re in the mood for a little extra indulgence, a side of homemade garlic aioli or creamy avocado would be a great addition.
Storage and Reheating Tips
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or heat them up in a skillet over low heat to keep the burgers nice and juicy. If you want to freeze them, just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
4 FAQs
- Can I make the chicken mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken mixture a day or two ahead of time. Just cover it and store it in the fridge until you’re ready to cook the burgers. - Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey will work just as well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as turkey can sometimes take a little longer. - Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking them on the stove?
Yes! These burgers would be perfect on the grill. Just make sure the grill is preheated and cook the burgers over medium heat until they’re cooked through. - What should I do if my chicken patties are falling apart?
If your patties are falling apart, try adding a binding ingredient like a beaten egg or some breadcrumbs to the mixture to help them hold together.
Conclusion
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. With their savory flavor, gooey cheese, and fresh spinach, they’re sure to be a hit at your next family dinner or BBQ. Give them a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Print
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (5-6 minutes per side)
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers offer a healthier alternative to classic beef burgers, featuring lean chicken, fresh spinach, and gooey white cheddar. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) Ground chicken
- 2 cups Fresh spinach (finely chopped)
- 4 oz White cheddar cheese (sliced)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 tsp Onion powder
- 1/2 tsp Salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 tbsp Olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 Burger buns (or lettuce wraps, optional for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
Chop the spinach into small pieces and mix it with the ground chicken, minced garlic, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a large bowl. Mix well using your hands. -
Form the Patties:
Shape the chicken mixture into 1-inch thick patties. Ensure all patties are roughly the same size to cook evenly. -
Cook the Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). -
Add the Cheese:
Place a slice of white cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese for 1-2 minutes. -
Assemble and Serve:
Place the cooked patties on buns (or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option), add your favorite condiments, and serve hot.
Notes
- Flavor Tip: Add Dijon mustard or Worcestershire sauce to the chicken mixture for extra flavor.
- Healthy Option: Swap regular buns for whole wheat buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (without bun)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg