Introduction
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger—packed with fresh spinach, sharp white cheddar, and savory spices. They’re juicy, full of flavor, and cook up in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or casual weekend cookouts. A fun fact? Adding spinach to ground chicken not only boosts nutrition but also keeps the patties incredibly moist. Serve these on toasted buns with your favorite toppings for a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome.
Pro Tip
For the juiciest patties, avoid overmixing the chicken mixture. Gently fold the ingredients until just combined—overworking the meat can make the burgers dense.
Serving Suggestions
- Classic Burger Night: Serve with crispy sweet potato fries and a tangy pickle spear.
- Light & Fresh: Pair with a simple arugula salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Game-Day Spread: Slice the patties into sliders and serve with a creamy garlic dip.
Variations
- Gluten-Free: Swap breadcrumbs for almond flour or gluten-free panko.
- Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce to the mix.
- Mediterranean Style: Use feta cheese instead of cheddar and mix in 1 tablespoon chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Low-Carb: Skip the bun and serve over a bed of butter lettuce as a protein-packed salad.
Equipment Needed
- Mixing bowl: For combining all ingredients evenly.
- Skillet: To cook the patties to golden perfection.
- Spatula: For flipping burgers gently without breaking them.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures the chicken reaches a safe 165°F (75°C).
Tips for Success
- Chill the patties for 15 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Use fresh spinach (not frozen) to prevent excess moisture.
- Don’t press down on the patties while cooking—this squeezes out juices.
- Toast the buns lightly for extra texture and flavor.
- Let the patties rest for 3–5 minutes after cooking to lock in moisture.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These burgers are a crowd-pleaser—tender, cheesy, and packed with hidden greens. They’re easy to customize, quick to make, and a healthier alternative to beef burgers without sacrificing flavor. Plus, they reheat beautifully for leftovers!
Recipe Card
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, extra cheese
Directions
- In a bowl, combine chicken, spinach, cheddar, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
- Shape into 4 even patties (about ½-inch thick).
- Heat a skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden and internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest patties for 3 minutes, then assemble on buns with toppings. Serve warm.
Nutrition Table (per serving)
| Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 28g | Carbs: 22g | Fat: 14g | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 3g | Sodium: 420mg |
Nutritional values are estimated and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
FAQ
1. Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking.
2. How do I store leftovers?
Keep cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
3. Can I freeze these burgers?
Absolutely. Freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
4. What’s a good cheese substitute?
Try Gruyère, mozzarella, or even goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
5. Why did my patties fall apart?
Overmixing or skipping the breadcrumbs can cause this. Ensure the mixture is just combined and refrigerate patties before cooking to firm them up.
