If you are looking to elevate your burger game, the White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is an absolute winner to have in your culinary arsenal. This dish melds juicy ground chicken with vibrant fresh spinach and the creamy sharpness of white cheddar, creating a burger that feels wholesome yet indulgent all at once. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a comforting, delicious meal that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or feeding friends at a casual gathering, this recipe shines with its simplicity and satisfying taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and flavorful, the ingredients for this recipe come together to build layers of taste and texture that make these burgers memorable. Each component plays a vital role, adding moisture, seasoning, or that crucial cheesy goodness.
- Ground chicken: The lean and tender base that keeps these burgers juicy and light.
- Fresh spinach (chopped): Brings a subtle earthiness and vibrant color, plus a boost of nutrients.
- White cheddar cheese (shredded): Melts beautifully inside the patty, adding creamy sharpness.
- Finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and a little bite for depth.
- Minced garlic: Infuses the mixture with warmth and aromatic flavor.
- Dijon mustard: Lends a slight tang that brightens the burger’s profile.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that bring all other flavors forward.
- Olive oil: For cooking the patties to a golden, irresistible finish.
- Burger buns: Your canvas for assembling these tasty creations.
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, mayonnaise, avocado—perfect for personalization and added freshness.
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by combining your ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. It’s key to mix just until everything is evenly incorporated to keep the texture tender—overmixing can make the patties dense.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions for perfect burger sizes. Shape each into a patty about three-quarters of an inch thick. This thickness helps them cook through evenly without drying out.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat until shimmering. Cook the patties for 5 to 6 minutes per side. Look for a gorgeous golden-brown crust and ensure the internal temperature hits 165°F for safe, juicy chicken.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
If you want to take your burger experience up a notch, toast the buns lightly in the pan or oven for a toasty crunch that complements the juicy patties beautifully.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Slather your buns with mayonnaise or avocado if you like, layer with lettuce, tomato, and red onion, and crown with your flavorful white cheddar spinach chicken patty. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect harmony of warm, melty, fresh, and crisp elements.
How to Serve White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like ripe tomato slices, crisp lettuce leaves, or thinly sliced red onion brings brightness and texture contrast to your burgers. A dollop of creamy mayonnaise or a few slices of avocado can create a luscious finish and some extra mouthwatering richness.
Side Dishes
These burgers pair wonderfully with a variety of sides—from crispy baked sweet potato fries to a refreshing cucumber salad or even a tangy coleslaw. Choose sides that provide either a crisp contrast or a complementary creaminess to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the classic burger plate by serving your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe on a bed of mixed greens for a low-carb twist or using lettuce wraps instead of buns. You could also skewer small sliders for a fun party appetizer or serve with a side of spicy aioli for dipping the patties.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover cooked burgers tightly wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store buns separately to avoid sogginess and reassemble just before serving for the best texture.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, shape your patties and freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet before transferring them to a sealed bag or container. They will keep well for up to two months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge and proceed as usual.
Reheating
Reheat your burgers gently in a skillet over low heat or in an oven set to 350°F until warmed through. Avoid the microwave to preserve juiciness and texture, and consider toasting the buns at the same time for freshness.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh for the White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe?
Yes, you can substitute frozen spinach, but make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before mixing it into the patties to prevent a watery texture.
Is ground turkey a good substitute for ground chicken?
Absolutely, ground turkey can be used and will deliver a similar taste and texture, though turkey can sometimes be a bit leaner so watch your cooking time to avoid drying out.
Can I add spices to enhance the flavor?
Definitely! Adding smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, or even a touch of cumin can elevate the flavor profile and complement the white cheddar quite nicely.
What type of cheese melts best in this recipe?
White cheddar is perfect for this recipe because it melts smoothly and adds a sharp, creamy flavor. You could experiment with Monterey Jack or mozzarella if you want a milder, stretchier cheese.
How do I prevent the chicken burgers from falling apart?
Be careful not to overmix the ingredients, and shape the patties firmly but gently. Cooking at medium heat helps the surface set quickly, holding the patties together nicely.
Final Thoughts
There is something irresistibly satisfying about the White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe that makes it a standout for any meal. The balance of fresh spinach, sharp cheese, and tender chicken creates a burger that feels special but is so easy to prepare. I truly encourage you to give this recipe a try—it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that brings a fresh, wholesome twist to the classic burger night.
Print
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic chicken burger. Packed with fresh spinach and melted white cheddar cheese, they offer a flavorful and juicy meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. Cooked on the stovetop or grill for a golden brown finish, these burgers are easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite toppings.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Burgers
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, mayonnaise, or avocado
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overwork the meat to ensure tender burgers.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture evenly into 4 portions and shape each into a burger patty of equal size and thickness to promote even cooking.
- Preheat and Cook Patties: Heat the olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the burgers are golden brown and cooked through.
- Toast Buns: If desired, lightly toast the burger buns in the skillet or oven to enhance texture and flavor.
- Assemble Burgers: Place each cooked patty on a toasted bun and add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, mayonnaise, or avocado. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes to the burger mixture.
- Patties can be made ahead of time and frozen uncooked for up to 2 months.
- You can cook these burgers on an outdoor grill; just make sure to oil the grates well and flip the patties carefully to prevent sticking.
