If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful twist on a classic chicken burger, the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Imagine tender ground chicken combined with fresh spinach and melted white cheddar cheese, all nestled in a soft bun with crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices. This recipe is a delightful harmony of savory, cheesy, and fresh flavors that makes for a satisfying meal any day of the week. It’s not just a burger; it’s a wholesome experience that brings vibrant greens and creamy cheese right to your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward yet crucial to delivering the perfect balance of taste, texture, and color in your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe. Each component plays a role, from binding to flavor enhancing, so don’t skip or substitute lightly!
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean base that keeps the burger juicy and tender.
- 1 cup fresh spinach (finely chopped): Adds a fresh, healthy green pop with a mild earthy flavor.
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese (shredded): Offers creamy richness and a sharp bite.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Infuses a subtle, aromatic depth.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mix while keeping the patty light.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a puckering tang that brightens the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Provides a sweet, robust background note.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Enhances all other flavors harmoniously.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Brings mild heat and earthiness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Essential for browning the patties perfectly.
- 4 burger buns: Soft and sturdy carriers for all that delicious goodness.
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and your favorite condiments: Fresh toppings that add crunch and zest to each bite.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by placing the ground chicken in a large bowl, then add finely chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Using your hands or a spoon, gently mix everything just until combined — be careful not to overwork the mixture, so your burgers stay tender and juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently form each into a round patty about half an inch thick. Handling the meat gently ensures a tender burger that holds together well.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties on the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This cooking technique locks in moisture and creates a gorgeous crust that contrasts with the creamy cheese inside.
Step 4: Prepare the Buns and Assemble
While the patties cook, toast the burger buns lightly for added texture and warmth. Then start building your burgers: lay down lettuce, add the cooked chicken patty, top with ripe tomato slices, and finish with your favorite condiments. Serve immediately while everything is warm and fresh.
How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe, add crisp lettuce leaves and ripe tomato slices to bring freshness and crunch. A dollop of mayonnaise or a zingy mustard spread can add moisture and extra flavor dimension. Feel free to sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper or even a touch of smoked paprika on top for an exciting twist.
Side Dishes
These burgers pair beautifully with classic sides like sweet potato fries or a green salad for a lighter option. Roasted vegetables or a chilled coleslaw can also complement the rich cheesiness and tender chicken perfectly, balancing the meal with texture and taste.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting friends or family, consider serving these burgers open-faced on a platter garnished with fresh herbs or microgreens. Alternatively, try wrapping the patties in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free twist. You can even turn leftovers into hearty sandwiches or salad toppers the next day.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool the patties completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness and texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, wrap each cooked patty tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Properly stored, they will keep well for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the burgers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can dry the patties. Toast the buns fresh before serving to restore that just-made magic feeling.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the spinach thoroughly to avoid excess moisture that could affect the burger texture. Frozen spinach works great and can be a handy substitute.
What can I use instead of white cheddar cheese?
Sharp cheddar or even mozzarella can work well depending on your taste preference. Sharp cheddar adds more tang, while mozzarella offers a mild creaminess. Experiment to find your perfect cheese match.
Is ground chicken the best choice for this recipe?
Ground chicken is ideal for a leaner, lighter burger. However, you can substitute ground turkey or even a blend of chicken and pork for richer flavor and juiciness if you prefer.
How can I prevent the burgers from falling apart?
Use the breadcrumbs and mix the ingredients gently without overmixing. Form the patties firmly but not too tightly, and make sure your pan or grill is hot enough to create a good sear, which helps hold them together.
Can I grill these burgers outdoors?
Yes! Grilling over medium heat works wonderfully for this recipe. Just keep an eye on the burgers to avoid flare-ups and ensure even cooking; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly satisfying about biting into a homemade White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe that combines wholesome ingredients with simple preparation. Whether you are cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend cookout, these burgers bring comfort, color, and deliciousness to the table. Give this recipe a try and watch it become a staple you return to time and time again.
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic burger. Featuring lean ground chicken mixed with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese, they are packed with flavor and nutrients. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop for a juicy and golden crust, these burgers make a satisfying main course served on toasted buns with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
For the Burger Patties
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking and Serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce (for serving)
- Tomato slices (for serving)
- Your favorite condiments (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the burger mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until the ingredients are just combined to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the burgers tough.
- Form the patties: Divide the mixture evenly and shape into 4 uniform patties. This helps them cook evenly and fit nicely on your buns.
- Heat the pan: Place a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow the oil to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the burgers: Place the patties in the hot pan and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side. Flip carefully when the bottoms are golden brown. Ensure the internal temperature of each patty reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Toast the buns: While the burgers are cooking, optionally toast the burger buns in a separate pan or toaster until lightly browned for added texture and flavor.
- Assemble and serve: Place each cooked patty on a bun and top with lettuce, tomato slices, and any additional condiments you prefer. Serve immediately to enjoy while hot and juicy.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach that has been thawed and thoroughly drained to remove excess moisture.
- Use sharp cheddar cheese instead of white cheddar for a bolder, more pronounced cheese flavor.
- These chicken burgers grill well and can be cooked over medium heat on an outdoor grill if preferred.
- Avoid overmixing the meat mixture to retain tender and juicy burgers.
