If you’re on the hunt for a juicy, flavorful homemade burger that’s anything but ordinary, this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is going to be your new best friend. These burgers strike the perfect balance between savory white cheddar, fresh spinach, and tender chicken, creating a mouthwatering experience that feels both wholesome and indulgent. The mix of sharpness from the cheese and the subtle earthiness of spinach elevates the humble chicken patty into something absolutely unforgettable. Trust me, once you try these, you’ll never look back at regular chicken burgers the same way again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe truly shine is the simplicity and quality of each ingredient. Every item contributes not just flavor, but texture and color, creating a burger that’s vibrant, juicy, and satisfying in every bite.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean base of the patties, mild in flavor but perfect for absorbing all the other delicious ingredients.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped: Adds a fresh, green burst of nutrition and subtle earthiness that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Brings a sharp, creamy richness that melts into the patty as it cooks.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties together, keeping them tender without falling apart on the grill.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Infuses a touch of sweetness and crunch for extra complexity.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Delivers a subtle aromatic depth that wakes up the entire flavor profile.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds tanginess and a slight bite that elevates the savory notes.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Enhances umami, giving the patties a juicy, meaty edge.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of each component.
- Olive oil, for cooking: Ensures your burgers get a lovely sear without sticking to the pan.
- 4 burger buns: The perfect vehicle for your flavorful patties and toppings.
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese for personalizing your burger experience.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Combine Ingredients
Start by placing the ground chicken, chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper into a large mixing bowl. Gently mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly distributed throughout the meat. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, or your patties might turn out tough instead of juicy.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions to ensure evenly sized burgers. With your hands, shape each portion into a patty about ¾-inch thick. A uniform shape and size help the burgers cook evenly, so they finish at the perfect juicy temperature.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place each patty in the pan and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on one side. Flip carefully and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), making sure they are fully cooked but still tender and flavorful.
Step 4: Rest the Patties
Once cooked, transfer the chicken burgers to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. Resting allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is moist and delicious rather than dry.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Place the rested patties on your burger buns and dress with your choice of optional toppings like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, or a bit more cheese for extra indulgence. This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is ready to impress on any casual dinner table.
How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of these chicken burgers is that they pair wonderfully with simple garnishes. Fresh lettuce adds a crisp bite while tomato slices bring juiciness and a pop of color. If you’re a cheese lover, a few extra shreds of white cheddar on top of the hot patty will melt into a divine blanket of flavor. Consider a swipe of Dijon mustard or your favorite burger sauce to add a zingy contrast.
Side Dishes
To create a full meal, pair these burgers with classic sides like crispy oven-baked fries or a vibrant mixed green salad. Roasted sweet potato wedges offer a slightly sweet balance, while a crunchy coleslaw can provide a refreshing contrast in texture. The versatility of this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe means it fits effortlessly into a variety of mealtime moods.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve these patties without buns as protein-packed salad toppers or alongside grilled vegetables for a low-carb option. You can also slice them into sliders for a party appetizer or pile them on toasted ciabatta with a creamy avocado spread to elevate your sandwich game. No matter how you present them, these burgers always steal the spotlight.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, store any leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for a quick and tasty meal later in the week. Keep your burger buns separate to maintain their softness.
Freezing
If you want to prepare these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe patties in advance, freezing is a great option. Shape and flash-freeze the patties on a tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftover or thawed burgers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through. Alternatively, using a microwave works well if you’re short on time, but be mindful not to overcook as that can dry them out. A quick oven reheat at 350°F (175°C) wrapped in foil also preserves juiciness and texture nicely.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach in this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture beforehand. This prevents your patties from becoming too wet and helps keep the texture just right.
What is the best type of chicken to use?
Ground chicken breast is lean and works well but can sometimes be dry. Using a mix of breast and thigh meat gives a juicier burger. Either way, the white cheddar and spinach add plenty of flavor and moisture.
Are these burgers suitable for grilling?
Absolutely! Just be sure the grill is clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Cook the patties over medium heat to ensure even cooking without drying them out, flipping once halfway through.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers to keep the texture without sacrificing taste.
What toppings go best with these chicken burgers?
Classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and mustard work beautifully. You can also experiment with avocado slices, caramelized onions, or spicy mayo to add exciting layers of flavor.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe inspires you to spice up your burger nights with a tasty, wholesome twist. It’s a simple yet striking combination that delivers comfort and sophistication all in one bite. Once you give this recipe a try, I’m willing to bet it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too. So grab your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and prepare for a burger experience that’s bursting with flavor and love.
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a flavorful and healthy twist on classic chicken patties, incorporating fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese for extra moisture and taste. Perfectly seasoned and pan-cooked to juicy perfection, they make a delicious meal ideal for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Burgers
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly to blend all ingredients evenly without overworking the meat.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round, evenly sized burger patty about 1/2 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest the Patties: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat for a juicy bite.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each chicken patty onto a burger bun. Add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy your wholesome, flavorful chicken burgers.
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the burger mixture to keep the patties tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to avoid undercooking poultry.
- You can swap white cheddar for other cheeses like mozzarella or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Feel free to toast the burger buns lightly for extra texture.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated and reheated gently for next-day meals.
