White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

Introduction

When I first made these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers for my family, I was a little unsure of how they would turn out. The combination of fresh spinach, sharp white cheddar, and ground chicken seemed like it could be a winner, but I didn’t know how well it would all come together. To my delight, the burgers turned out to be an absolute hit. The chicken was juicy and flavorful, the spinach added a lovely, earthy taste, and the cheddar cheese melted perfectly, giving each bite a delightful richness. The Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce provided the right amount of tang and depth, making this burger recipe one of our new favorites. We enjoyed it so much that it quickly became a staple in our weeknight dinner rotation. I’m excited to share this easy-to-make, flavorful burger recipe with you, perfect for a healthier alternative to the traditional beef burger.

Ingredients

• 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
• 4 burger buns
• Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese

Instructions

1. Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty. Ensure the patties are firm and evenly sized so they cook evenly and hold together during cooking.
3. Heat the Skillet: Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle a small amount of olive oil into the pan. Allow the oil to heat up until shimmering.
4. Cook the Patties: Once the oil is hot, place the chicken patties into the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the patties are golden brown with a crispy crust on the outside. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are cooked through.
5. Rest the Patties: Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, keeping the burgers moist.
6. Assemble the Burgers: While the patties are resting, toast your burger buns lightly in the skillet or in a toaster. Once toasted, place the cooked patties on the buns and top with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato slices, or an extra slice of cheddar cheese.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Serve the burgers immediately with your preferred sides and enjoy the flavorful combination of chicken, cheese, and spinach in every bite.

Nutrition Facts (Servings and Calories per Serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories per Serving: 320 kcal

Nutrition Breakdown per Serving:

• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 11g
• Fiber: 1g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 27 minutes

How to Serve

• With Fresh Veggies: Serve these burgers with a side of crisp, fresh salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and balanced meal.
• On a Whole Wheat Bun: For a healthier alternative, use whole wheat or gluten-free buns.
• With Sweet Potato Fries: These chicken burgers pair wonderfully with a side of baked sweet potato fries or roasted potatoes.
• With Avocado: For an extra creamy and healthy twist, top the burgers with fresh avocado slices.

Additional Tips

1. Use Fresh Chicken: Fresh ground chicken will give the burgers a juicier texture and better flavor. You can also use chicken breast or thighs and grind them yourself.
2. Don’t Overmix the Ingredients: When mixing the ingredients, be careful not to overmix. Overworking the chicken can result in dense, tough patties.
3. Add Extra Spice: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or your favorite hot sauce to the burger mixture.
4. Use Lean Chicken for a Healthier Option: Opt for lean ground chicken to keep the burgers lower in fat. However, adding a small amount of olive oil while cooking will still help keep them moist.
5. Chill the Patties: If the patties are too soft to handle, refrigerate the mixture for 15-20 minutes before forming the patties. This makes them easier to shape and helps them hold together better while cooking.

Recipe Variations

• Turkey Spinach Burgers: Swap the ground chicken for lean ground turkey for a slightly lighter version of these burgers.
• Cheddar and Spinach Turkey Burgers with Bacon: For a savory twist, add crumbled cooked bacon to the mixture for a smoky flavor.
• Grilled Chicken Spinach Burgers: Grill the patties instead of pan-frying them for a slightly different flavor profile. Just be sure to keep the grill at medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
• Vegan Spinach and “Chicken” Patties: Use a plant-based chicken substitute and follow the same steps to create a vegan version of these burgers. You can also add vegan cheese if you prefer.
• Italian-style Spinach Burgers: Mix in 1 tsp of dried oregano and a bit of Parmesan cheese for an Italian twist on these savory burgers.

Serving Suggestions

• With Pickles: Add pickles to your burger for a tangy contrast to the rich chicken and cheese.
• With Onion Rings: Pair the burgers with crispy onion rings for a fun, diner-style meal.
• For a Low-Carb Meal: Serve the patties in lettuce wraps instead of buns for a low-carb, keto-friendly meal.
• On a Salad: If you’re not feeling like a burger bun, place the cooked patty on top of a fresh bed of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers for a healthier salad version.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing Patties: You can freeze the uncooked patties for later use. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw them in the refrigerator overnight and cook as usual.
• Storing Leftovers: Leftover cooked burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
• Freezing Cooked Burgers: For long-term storage, freeze the cooked burgers individually on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, bake or pan-fry them until heated through.

FAQ Section

1. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.
2. Can I use a different cheese instead of cheddar?
   • Yes, feel free to substitute with mozzarella, Swiss, or provolone cheese for a different flavor.
3. How do I know when the burgers are fully cooked?
   • The internal temperature of the burgers should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are cooked through.
4. Can I cook these burgers on the grill?
   • Yes, you can cook these burgers on a grill over medium heat. Be sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
5. How can I make the burgers spicier?
   • Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or some hot sauce to the burger mixture for a spicy kick.
6. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
   • Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and works well in this recipe.
7. Can I use a non-stick pan for cooking?
   • Yes, a non-stick pan works well and requires less oil. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
8. What’s the best way to store leftovers?
   • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
9. Can I freeze cooked patties?
   • Yes, you can freeze cooked patties. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil before freezing.
10. What toppings are best with these burgers?

• Toppings like avocado, crispy bacon, lettuce, and tomato are excellent choices for these burgers.

Conclusion

These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a fresh and delicious twist on the traditional burger. The combination of tender chicken, rich cheddar cheese, and vibrant spinach makes for a burger that’s both satisfying and full of flavor. Whether you ’re making them for a family dinner or serving them at a summer barbecue, they are sure to become a favorite. With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is a great addition to your cooking repertoire. Try them today for a healthier, tastier burger option!

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