There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a juicy, flavorful burger, especially when it’s homemade and packed with wholesome ingredients. These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a fantastic way to switch up your burger game while keeping things light yet delicious. The combination of melty white cheddar, tender chicken, and nutrient-rich spinach makes for a burger that’s both indulgent and nutritious.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, summer cookout, or even meal prepping, these burgers offer a unique twist on a classic favorite. Plus, since they’re made with ground chicken, they’re a leaner alternative to traditional beef burgers without sacrificing taste. Serve them on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings, or go bunless for a low-carb option. Either way, these burgers are bound to become a household favorite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier alternative – Made with lean ground chicken and fresh spinach, these burgers are packed with protein and nutrients.
- Bursting with flavor – The combination of sharp white cheddar and savory seasonings creates an irresistible taste.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Versatile – Enjoy them on a bun, in a lettuce wrap, or even over a salad.
- Kid-friendly – The cheesy goodness makes them a hit with little ones too!
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
Description
There’s something incredibly satisfying about biting into a juicy, flavorful burger, especially when it’s homemade and packed with wholesome ingredients. These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a fantastic way to switch up your burger game while keeping things light yet delicious. The combination of melty white cheddar, tender chicken, and nutrient-rich spinach makes for a burger that’s both indulgent and nutritious.
Perfect for a weeknight dinner, summer cookout, or even meal prepping, these burgers offer a unique twist on a classic favorite. Plus, since they’re made with ground chicken, they’re a leaner alternative to traditional beef burgers without sacrificing taste. Serve them on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings, or go bunless for a low-carb option. Either way, these burgers are bound to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Burger buns and toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
Instructions
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together using clean hands or a spoon until well combined. The mixture may be slightly sticky, but that’s normal.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently shape them into patties about ½-inch thick. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly grease your hands with a little olive oil to make shaping easier.
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the burgers are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Once cooked, transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Toast your burger buns if desired, then assemble with your favorite toppings. Try adding lettuce, tomato, avocado, or a little extra white cheddar for an extra cheesy bite!
Notes
- If grilling, lightly oil the grates and cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- These burgers can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes if you prefer a hands-off approach.
- For a spicy kick, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Burger buns and toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
Making these burgers is incredibly simple, and you don’t need any fancy equipment—just a bowl, a skillet, and a few minutes of your time!
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together using clean hands or a spoon until well combined. The mixture may be slightly sticky, but that’s normal.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently shape them into patties about ½-inch thick. If the mixture is too sticky, lightly grease your hands with a little olive oil to make shaping easier.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, place the patties in the pan, making sure not to overcrowd them. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the burgers are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Assemble and Serve
Once cooked, transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Toast your burger buns if desired, then assemble with your favorite toppings. Try adding lettuce, tomato, avocado, or a little extra white cheddar for an extra cheesy bite!
Helpful Tips
- Don’t overmix the meat – Overworking the mixture can make the burgers dense and tough. Mix just until combined.
- Use fresh spinach – Frozen spinach can make the mixture watery, so stick with fresh and chop it finely.
- Cheese alternatives – If you don’t have white cheddar, you can substitute with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a little heat.
- Make ahead – You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-fried
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High Protein
Notes
- If grilling, lightly oil the grates and cook over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side.
- These burgers can also be baked at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes if you prefer a hands-off approach.
- For a spicy kick, add ¼ teaspoon of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mixture.
Nutritional Information (Per Burger, Without Bun)
- Calories: ~210
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
(Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe and offers a similar lean protein option.
How do I keep my chicken burgers from falling apart?
Using an egg and breadcrumbs helps bind the mixture together. If your patties still feel too loose, chill them in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before cooking.
What toppings go well with these burgers?
Some great topping ideas include sliced avocado, caramelized onions, crisp lettuce, tomato slices, and a smear of garlic aioli or honey mustard.
Can I make these burgers in the air fryer?
Absolutely! Cook them in the air fryer at 375°F (190°C) for 12-14 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour for a low-carb option.
Storage Instructions
Refrigerator: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave for 30-45 seconds.
Freezer: To freeze uncooked patties, place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until solid. Transfer to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Related Recipes
If you loved these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers, here are some other delicious recipes to try:
- The Ultimate Pizza Burgers: A Comforting Fusion of Flavors
- French Onion Grilled Cheese Sandwich
- Southwest Turkey Burgers: A Flavorful Twist for Your Next Meal
Conclusion
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. They’re packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re grilling them up for a barbecue or making a quick dinner at home, these burgers are sure to impress.
