White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

If you’re looking to elevate your burger game, these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are an absolute must-try. Juicy ground chicken melds perfectly with fresh spinach and melty white cheddar cheese, creating a juicy, flavorful bite that’s both comforting and nutritious. The addition of aromatic spices and garlic lifts the taste, while the spinach adds a pleasant pop of color and freshness. Whether you’re grilling up a quick weeknight dinner or craving a delicious meal to impress friends, these burgers combine simple ingredients in a way that feels special every single time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting this recipe right is all about using fresh, straightforward ingredients that work harmoniously together. Each one plays a role in building the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and healthy goodness in your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers.

• 1 pound ground chicken: The lean, tender protein base that keeps the burgers juicy and light.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped: Adds vibrant color and a mild, earthy flavor, boosting both nutrition and texture.
• ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully throughout the burger, delivering a creamy, tangy richness.
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together while keeping the patties beautifully tender.
• 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder to hold all the ingredients in place.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced: Provides a subtle punch of aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• ½ teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and depth without overpowering the other ingredients.
• ½ teaspoon paprika: Gives a hint of smoky warmth that complements the cheddar cheese.
• ½ teaspoon salt: Essential for bringing out all the flavors.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of spiciness to balance.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking, ensuring a golden crust on each burger.
• Burger buns and toppings of choice: Lettuce, tomato, avocado, or even extra cheddar as you like!

How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture

Start by combining the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, and egg in a large bowl. Add the minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper, then mix everything together using your hands or a spoon until well blended. It’s normal for the mixture to feel a touch sticky – this ensures your burgers will hold together while cooking and stay tender.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently shape each into a patty about half an inch thick. If the mixture sticks to your hands and becomes tricky to work with, lightly coat your palms with olive oil to make shaping smoother and easier. This little tip keeps your process mess-free and stress-free!

Step 3: Cook the Burgers

Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. When hot, place the patties carefully to avoid overcrowding the pan, and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Look for a golden-brown crust and check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures your burgers are safely cooked yet remain juicy inside.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

Once the burgers are cooked, transfer them to a plate and let them rest for a couple of minutes; this keeps all the juices locked in. Toast your burger buns lightly if you wish, and then build your masterpiece. Layer with fresh lettuce, juicy tomato slices, creamy avocado, or extra shreds of white cheddar for that irresistible cheesy finish. These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers not only taste fantastic but look mouthwateringly vibrant on the plate.

How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like crisp lettuce and ripe tomato bring freshness and crunch that balance the creamy richness of the cheese. Avocado adds a silky, buttery texture, and a dollop of aioli or mustard can introduce delightful tangy or herby notes. Don’t hesitate to experiment with pickled red onions or fresh herbs, which can brighten the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Pair your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers with a crisp side salad for a light and healthy meal, or enjoy them with crispy sweet potato fries for a hearty, satisfying bite. Roasted vegetables also make an excellent companion if you want to keep things nutritious and colorful. The versatility of these burgers means they shine alongside a wide variety of sides!

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to impress, try serving these burgers open-faced on toasted artisanal bread or inside crunchy lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist. You can also stack smaller patties to create slider-sized versions for entertaining or customize toppings for a themed dinner party. The vibrant green spinach and melting white cheddar always steal the show visually and flavor-wise.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After cooling completely, store leftover White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh while preserving moisture and flavor so you can enjoy them easily the next day.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze uncooked patties separated by parchment paper in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight for the best texture and taste.

Reheating

Reheat cooked burgers gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F (160°C) until warmed through. Avoid the microwave when possible as it can dry out the meat and cheese. The goal is to maintain that wonderful juicy, melty texture that makes these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers so memorable.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

You can substitute frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw it fully and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into the patties. Too much water will make the burger mixture too wet and harder to shape.

What cheese can I use if I don’t have white cheddar?

While white cheddar offers a great melt and tang, you can also try mozzarella for mild creaminess or Monterey Jack for a bit more flavor. Just avoid very strong cheeses that might overpower the chicken and spinach.

Are these burgers gluten-free?

They can be, if you swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones or use ground oats instead. This simple substitution keeps the patties binding well without gluten.

How do I know when the burgers are fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer and ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Additionally, the juices should run clear, and there should be no pink inside.

Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking them on the stove?

Absolutely! Grilling adds a delicious smoky flavor. Just oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking and watch carefully to avoid overcooking since chicken patties can dry out quickly on high heat.

Final Thoughts

These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers have quickly become one of my favorite go-to recipes whenever I want a meal that feels both wholesome and indulgent. The combination of fresh spinach and melted white cheddar nestled inside juicy chicken patties is simply irresistible. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try and discover just how easy it is to create such a delicious, colorful dish at home. Once you do, I bet it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen too!

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