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White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 3.8 from 38 reviews
  • Author: Kimberly
  • Prep Time: 18 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes preparation + 12 minutes cooking = 42 minutes
  • Yield: 4 burgers (serves 4)
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Low Fat

Description

These White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions deliver a juicy, flavorful twist on a classic burger. Ground chicken mixed with sweet caramelized onions, spicy Calabrian chili paste, and sharp white cheddar cheese creates a perfect balance of savory and heat. Grilled to perfection and topped with creamy smashed avocados, peppery arugula, and mayo on toasted buns, these burgers are an easy, crowd-pleasing meal.


Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground chicken or turkey
  • ½ cup prepared caramelized onions
  • 5 ounces white cheddar, ¼ inch dice
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1-2 teaspoons Calabrian chili paste (or sambal)

For Serving

  • Burger buns
  • Smashed avocados
  • Arugula
  • Mayo


Instructions

  1. Prepare the patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, caramelized onions, diced white cheddar, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and Calabrian chili paste. Mix gently until just combined. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
  2. Heat and oil the grill: Preheat the grill to 475ºF (about medium-high heat). Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the patties from sticking.
  3. Grill the patties: Place the chicken patties on the hot grill. Cook for 4-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 155ºF to ensure they are fully cooked and juicy. Avoid pressing down on the patties to retain moisture.
  4. Toast buns and assemble: While the burgers cook, toast the burger buns lightly on the grill until golden brown. Spread mayo on the buns, then layer with arugula, smashed avocados, and the cooked chicken patties. Serve immediately with your favorite sides.

Notes

  • Use lean ground chicken or turkey for healthier protein options.
  • Chilling the patties before grilling helps them stay intact and reduces shrinkage.
  • Adjust the amount of Calabrian chili paste to control the spiciness of the burgers.
  • Caramelized onions can be prepared ahead of time to save cooking time.
  • Make sure to cook the chicken patties to an internal temperature of 155ºF for safety and optimal juiciness.