This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger recipe is a flavorful and healthy twist on the traditional chicken burger. Juicy ground chicken is combined with fresh spinach, savory white cheddar, and aromatic spices to create a delicious, satisfying meal. These burgers are quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights or weekend cookouts.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthier alternative – Made with lean ground chicken and fresh spinach.
- Packed with flavor – White cheddar adds a rich, creamy taste.
- Quick and easy – Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile – Enjoy with a bun, lettuce wrap, or on its own.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Ground chicken – 1 lb
- Garlic (minced) – 2 cloves
- Lettuce – for serving
- Onion powder – ¼ teaspoon
- Dried oregano – ¼ teaspoon
- Fresh spinach (chopped) – ½ cup
- Egg – 1
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon
- Breadcrumbs – ¼ cup
- White cheddar cheese (shredded) – ¼ cup
- Burger buns (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred) – 4
Directions
- Prepare the Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced garlic, onion powder, oregano, spinach, egg, salt, pepper, breadcrumbs, and shredded white cheddar. Mix until just combined.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into burger patties.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each patty on a toasted bun and top with lettuce and additional white cheddar if desired.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 burgers
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns or serve in a lettuce wrap.
- Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella, pepper jack, or gouda instead of white cheddar.
- Extra Veggies: Mix in grated zucchini or finely diced bell peppers for added texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Keep leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side or microwave for 30 seconds.
FAQs
Can I grill these burgers instead of pan-frying?
Yes! Grill over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side.
How do I keep chicken burgers from drying out?
Don’t overcook them, and consider adding a bit of olive oil or an extra egg for moisture.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a great substitute.
What’s the best way to melt extra cheese on top?
Add a slice of cheese in the last minute of cooking and cover the pan to let it melt.
Can I make the mixture ahead of time?
Yes! Prepare and refrigerate the mixture up to 24 hours in advance.
What are the best toppings for these burgers?
Avocado, tomato, caramelized onions, or a spicy mayo are great options.
Can I bake these burgers?
Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How can I make these burgers dairy-free?
Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
What can I use instead of breadcrumbs?
Try almond flour, crushed crackers, or oat flour for a different texture.
Can I make mini sliders instead of full-sized burgers?
Yes! Shape into smaller patties and adjust cooking time to about 3 minutes per side.
Conclusion
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a flavorful, juicy, and nutritious alternative to traditional burgers. Whether you’re grilling, pan-frying, or baking, these burgers are easy to make and perfect for any occasion. Try them today and enjoy a delicious homemade meal!
Print
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic burger, featuring juicy ground chicken, fresh spinach, and creamy white cheddar. Seasoned to perfection and cooked until golden brown, these healthy yet indulgent burgers are perfect for a quick weeknight meal or weekend grilling! Serve on a toasted bun with crisp lettuce for a delicious bite every time.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil, for cooking
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns (whole wheat or gluten-free if preferred)
- Lettuce leaves
Instructions
1. Prepare the Chicken Patties:
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, spinach, white cheddar, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until just combined—do not overmix to keep the burgers tender.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties.
2. Cook the Burgers:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
3. Assemble & Serve:
- Toast the burger buns lightly, if desired.
- Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the chicken patty.
- Add extra toppings like tomato slices, red onion, or avocado if desired.
- Serve immediately with your favorite sides like sweet potato fries or a fresh salad.
Notes
- For extra cheesiness, add a slice of white cheddar on top of the patty during the last minute of cooking.
- Make it spicy by adding ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes to the patty mixture.
- These burgers can be grilled instead of pan-fried cook over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side.
- Store leftover patties in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 17 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Burgers
- Method: Pan-Seared, Grilled
- Cuisine: American