If you are looking for a burger that bursts with flavor while still being light and wholesome, the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is just the ticket. This dish combines juicy ground chicken with vibrant fresh spinach and melty white cheddar cheese, creating a perfect balance of savory, cheesy goodness and healthy greens. Every bite offers a satisfying texture and a deliciously fresh taste that makes it a standout favorite whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends at a backyard cookout.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients come together with simplicity yet deliver exceptional taste and texture. Each one plays a vital role: the ground chicken provides lean protein, spinach adds color and nutrients, and white cheddar brings that creamy, irresistible cheesiness.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean base that keeps these burgers juicy and packed with protein.
- 1 cup fresh spinach (finely chopped): Adds a fresh pop of color and a nutritional boost without overpowering flavor.
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully in the patties for rich, creamy bites.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Infuses a subtle aromatic depth that elevates the overall flavor.
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Keeps the patties tender and helps bind the ingredients perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and a little extra flavor kick.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the savory profile with a hint of sweetness.
- ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds just the right amount of peppery warmth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Helps achieve a golden crust on the patties while cooking.
- 4 burger buns: Perfect for sandwiching your juicy, cheesy chicken patties.
- Lettuce, tomato slices, and your favorite condiments: For fresh, crunchy toppings and extra flavor layers.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by combining the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a round patty about half an inch thick, handling them with care to maintain their shape and texture.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety and juiciness.
Step 4: Toast the Buns and Assemble
If you love a bit of extra texture, toast your burger buns lightly in the same pan after cooking the patties. Then assemble the burgers with a layer of fresh lettuce, juicy tomato slices, your cooked chicken patty, and your favorite condiments.
How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Keep it simple and fresh with crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices, which add refreshing crunch and a juicy contrast to the rich burger. Pickles, red onion rings, or even a dollop of creamy avocado can add an extra layer of flavor and texture.
Side Dishes
These burgers pair wonderfully with classic sides like sweet potato fries, a crisp garden salad, or even a tangy coleslaw. For a healthier option, roasted vegetables or grilled corn on the cob make excellent choices.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe as a lettuce wrap for a low-carb twist or open-faced on a toasted bun with a drizzle of chipotle mayo. You could also stack sliders with pickled jalapeños for a fun party appetizer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cooked chicken burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before refrigerating to maintain their texture and flavor.
Freezing
If you want to save time later, shape the raw patties and freeze them individually on a tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. This way, you can cook fresh burgers whenever the craving hits.
Reheating
For best results, reheat cooked burgers gently in a skillet over low heat or in a preheated oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to maintain their juicy texture and avoid dryness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for this recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen spinach thoroughly to avoid excess moisture, which could affect the burger’s texture.
Is it possible to grill these burgers instead of cooking on the stovetop?
Yes, grilling over medium heat works beautifully and imparts a smoky flavor that complements the white cheddar and spinach perfectly.
Can I substitute another type of cheese for the white cheddar?
Definitely! Sharp cheddar, mozzarella, or even pepper jack can add different flavor profiles while still melting nicely inside the patties.
How do I prevent the chicken burgers from falling apart while cooking?
Using breadcrumbs and gentle mixing helps bind the ingredients together. Also, avoid flipping the burgers too often so they have time to form a crust and hold their shape.
What would be a good sauce to pair with these burgers?
A garlic aioli, honey mustard, or even a spicy chipotle mayo are all fantastic choices that complement the flavors in the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe enough—they truly bring together the best of fresh ingredients, comforting cheese, and lean protein in every bite. Whether it’s a family dinner or casual get-together, this recipe will quickly become a crowd favorite that you’ll want to make again and again. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and get ready to enjoy one of the tastiest homemade burgers around!
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and nutritious twist on the classic burger, featuring lean ground chicken mixed with fresh spinach and melted white cheddar cheese. Perfect for a healthy yet satisfying meal, these burgers are easy to prepare and cook on the stovetop, delivering juicy patties packed with flavor and a delightful cheesy finish.
Ingredients
For the Burgers
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach (finely chopped)
- 1 cup white cheddar cheese (shredded)
- 1 garlic clove (minced)
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Your favorite condiments
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to keep the patties tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture evenly and shape it into 4 equal-sized patties, handling the meat gently to maintain consistency without overmixing.
- Cook Patties: Heat the olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
- Toast Buns: While the patties cook, optionally toast the burger buns in the same skillet or grill pan until lightly browned and warm.
- Assemble Burgers: Place each cooked chicken patty on a toasted bun and top with fresh lettuce, tomato slices, and your favorite condiments. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach that has been thawed and thoroughly drained.
- Using sharp cheddar cheese instead of white cheddar gives the burgers a stronger, tangier flavor.
- These burgers are also excellent when grilled over medium heat on an outdoor grill.
