If you’re craving a burger that dances with flavor and packs just the right amount of punch, Hot Chili Chicken Burgers absolutely fit the bill. Imagine juicy ground chicken seasoned with fiery chilies, garlic, and fragrant spices, topped with melted pepper jack and layered with crisp veggies—all held together by a fluffy toasted bun and a zesty chili-lime mayo. This vibrant, Asian-inspired burger is perfect for spice seekers and anyone ready to level up their dinner game.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Just a handful of simple ingredients come together to create the magic of Hot Chili Chicken Burgers. Each component brings something essential—whether it’s a kick of heat, juicy tenderness, or fresh crunch, everything blends together for a burger you won’t forget.
- Ground Chicken (1 pound): The perfect protein base—juicy, lean, and the ideal blank slate for spicy flavors to shine.
- Red Chili, finely minced (1 small or 1 teaspoon chili flakes): The star source of heat; adjust the chili for your preferred spice level.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Adds aromatic depth that complements both the chicken and spices.
- Soy Sauce (1 tablespoon): Gives a savory, salty backbone that balances the heat and elevates the chicken.
- Sriracha or Chili Sauce (1 tablespoon): Infuses an extra zing, as well as subtle tang and color.
- Ground Cumin (½ teaspoon): Adds a toasty, earthy complexity that lingers beautifully after each bite.
- Black Pepper (¼ teaspoon): A gentle nudge of warmth and spice to round out the flavor profile.
- Salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for bringing every ingredient into focus.
- Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Ensures a golden, crispy exterior when you cook the patties.
- Burger Buns, toasted (4): A perfectly soft-yet-sturdy vessel—always toast for that subtle crunch.
- Pepper Jack Cheese, sliced (4 slices): Melts into spicy, creamy goodness atop each patty.
- Shredded Lettuce (1 cup): Its cool crispness is a refreshing contrast to the heat.
- Sliced Cucumber (½ cup): Brings a touch of cool crunch and freshness.
- Mayonnaise (¼ cup): The rich, creamy base for the chili-lime mayo.
- Lime Juice (1 tablespoon): Bright, citrusy acidity that makes the mayo pop.
- Sliced Red Onion (optional): For those who want an extra layer of lively flavor and crunch.
How to Make Hot Chili Chicken Burgers
Step 1: Mix and Shape the Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with the minced red chili, garlic, soy sauce, sriracha, ground cumin, black pepper, and salt. Mix everything gently with a fork or your hands just until fully combined—overmixing can make the patties dense. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form each into a patty about the same width as your burger buns. Try to keep the patties a little wider than the bun, since they’ll shrink slightly during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, add the patties. Cook each side for around 4 to 5 minutes until beautifully golden and the inside is cooked through (an instant-read thermometer should register 165°F). Be gentle when flipping—the patties hold together best if you let them sear before moving. During the last minute of cooking, lay a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty, then cover with a lid or foil to melt it until irresistibly gooey.
Step 3: Whip Up the Chili-Lime Mayo
While the patties are cooking, mix together the mayonnaise and lime juice in a small bowl. This quick chili-lime mayo takes just seconds, but don’t underestimate it—its creamy zing lifts every bite of these Hot Chili Chicken Burgers! Feel free to add a splash of sriracha if you love extra heat.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
Pop your burger buns cut-side down in a dry skillet, under the broiler, or even on the grill. Toasting brings out their natural sweetness and gives each Hot Chili Chicken Burger the perfect sturdy base for all its juicy, saucy toppings.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Spread a generous spoonful of chili-lime mayo on both the top and bottom buns. Pile on shredded lettuce and sliced cucumber on the bottom bun, gently place your hot, cheesy chili chicken patty on top, and crown it with a few slices of red onion if you like. Top with the other half of the bun and serve while still warm—get ready for burger bliss!
How to Serve Hot Chili Chicken Burgers
Garnishes
These burgers love a crunchy finish—try a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, extra chili flakes, or even a dash of pickled jalapeños for bold flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, a drizzle of honey or a scatter of sesame seeds can add unexpected delight.
Side Dishes
Pair your Hot Chili Chicken Burgers with sweet potato fries, tangy cabbage slaw, or pickled vegetables. A side of crispy potato wedges or even a bright Asian-inspired cucumber salad will round out your meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Miniature slider buns make these burgers fantastic party fare—just use smaller patties and assemble as usual. You can also skip the bun altogether and wrap a patty in crisp lettuce, turning it into a spicy, low-carb lettuce wrap. For a casual feast, pile burgers high on a serving platter, surrounded by your favorite sauces for dipping.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any extra cooked chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay moist for up to 3 days without sacrificing flavor—just keep the veggies and buns separate to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
The uncooked patties freeze beautifully! Lay them flat on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then stack with parchment between each and seal in a zip-top bag. They’ll keep for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating
For best results, reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F wrapped in foil. Microwave reheating works in a pinch but can dry them out, so add a splash of water and cover. Top with fresh cheese while heating to restore melty magic!
FAQs
Can I make Hot Chili Chicken Burgers less spicy?
Absolutely! For milder burgers, reduce the red chili or sriracha, and add more cool toppings like cucumber or even a yogurt-based sauce to mellow the heat.
What’s the best way to keep chicken burgers juicy?
The key is not to overmix the ground chicken and to cook just until they reach 165°F. Brushing a little olive oil on the patties before cooking also helps lock in moisture.
Can I grill Hot Chili Chicken Burgers instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Grilling them adds incredible smoky flavor. Just be sure your grill grates are very clean and oiled to prevent sticking, since chicken burgers can be a bit more delicate than beef.
Are there gluten-free options for this recipe?
Definitely—simply swap in your favorite gluten-free buns or serve the patties on a big bed of salad greens or wrapped in sturdy lettuce leaves for a light, bun-free version.
What type Main Course
If you want a different spin, try Monterey Jack for less heat, or go bold with extra sharp cheddar or smoked gouda—just make sure it melts well!
Final Thoughts
There’s something so satisfying about biting into a homemade Hot Chili Chicken Burger—the balance of juicy chicken, spicy kick, creamy mayo, and crunchy veggies is pure burger joy. Gather your favorite people, fire up the skillet or grill, and treat everyone to this punchy, addictive twist on a classic. Give these burgers a try—you’ll be dreaming about them long after the last bite!
Print
Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop or Grill
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These Hot Chili Chicken Burgers are packed with flavor and heat, perfect for those who love a spicy kick in their burger. Juicy ground chicken is mixed with fiery red chili, garlic, and a blend of spices, then topped with gooey pepper jack cheese and a zesty chili-lime mayo. Serve these Asian-inspired burgers on toasted buns with crisp lettuce and cool cucumber for a deliciously balanced meal.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small red chili, finely minced (or 1 teaspoon chili flakes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili sauce
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Assembly:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- ½ cup sliced cucumber
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Sliced red onion (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced chili, garlic, soy sauce, sriracha, cumin, pepper, and salt. Form into 4 patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Make the Chili-Lime Mayo: Mix mayonnaise and lime juice in a small bowl.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread chili-lime mayo on buns, layer with lettuce, cucumber, chicken patty, and onion. Top with bun and serve.
Notes
- For extra heat, add more chili or sriracha.
- These burgers can be grilled for added flavor.
- Pair with sweet potato fries or a simple slaw for a complete meal.
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