If you’re looking for a delicious twist on classic chicken burgers, this Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe is an absolute must-try. These juicy, flavor-packed burgers are seasoned just right and perfectly grilled, then topped with a vibrant avocado corn salsa that brings fresh creaminess, crunchy sweetness, and a bright zing all in one bite. Whether you serve them on soft buns or crisp lettuce wraps, this dish offers a wonderful balance of textures and flavors, making it the perfect meal for a sunny day or anytime you want something satisfying yet refreshing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe lies in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays an essential part in bringing the flavors and textures alive. From the comforting spices in the chicken to the fresh, zesty salsa, every component enhances the overall dish beautifully.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean protein base that cooks up tender and juicy for the patties.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and adds subtle texture without overpowering.
- 1 egg: Essential for holding the burger mix together for easy shaping and cooking.
- 1 garlic clove (minced): Adds a fragrant punch and depth to the burger flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder: Infuses a mild, savory note to the meat mixture.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Brings a smoky warmth that complements the grilled chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the burger.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just enough heat and seasoning complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying): Prevents sticking and promotes a lovely golden crust.
- 1 ripe avocado (diced): Creamy base of the salsa that balances the spiced chicken.
- 1/2 cup cooked corn kernels: Adds a sweet crunch and vibrant color.
- 1/4 cup red onion (finely diced): Provides sharpness and a punch of color in the salsa.
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes (halved): Juicy bursts of sweetness brighten up the topping.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Lifts the salsa with fresh acidity and tang.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro: Brings a lively herbal freshness that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: To perfectly season the salsa and balance flavors.
- Burger buns or lettuce wraps: Your choice for serving, soft or crisp!
- Optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, mayo, or cheese: Customize your burger your way.
How to Make Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties
Start by combining the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Mix everything just until combined — overmixing can toughen the burgers, so be gentle. Then, shape the mixture into four even patties, making them compact but not too dense for optimum juiciness.
Step 2: Cook the Burgers
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. You want them golden brown on the outside and cooked through inside (the safe internal temperature is 165°F). Cooking them on a grill pan also gives you those classic grill marks and a nice smoky aroma.
Step 3: Make the Avocado Corn Salsa
While your burgers are cooking, combine diced avocado, cooked corn kernels, finely diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Gently toss it all together to keep the avocado chunks intact but evenly coated in lime and seasonings. This salsa adds a wonderful vibrant topping for the juicy chicken.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
If desired, lightly toast your burger buns for extra texture and warmth. Place each cooked chicken patty on the bottom bun or lettuce leaf, then spoon generous amounts of the avocado corn salsa on top. Finish with any optional toppings like fresh lettuce, sliced tomato, mayo, or a slice of cheese. Serve immediately for the best experience—warm, tangy, and fresh!
How to Serve Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe
Garnishes
The avocado corn salsa already offers wonderful freshness, but adding crisp lettuce leaves or a slice of ripe tomato can bring more vibrant color and crunch. A drizzle of creamy sauce or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions adds a personal touch. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your garnishes to make the plate pop.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with simple sides such as sweet potato fries, a light green salad with citrus vinaigrette, or even grilled vegetables. The cool and creamy salsa contrasts nicely with the warmth and slight spice of the burgers, so sides that are fresh or roasted complement this balance perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Looking to impress your guests? Serve these burgers open-faced on a wooden platter with little bowls of extra salsa and toppings so everyone can assemble their own. For a lighter, low-carb option, wrap the patties in sturdy butter lettuce leaves. You can also turn them into slider-sized bites for parties or picnics for an irresistible finger-food format.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have extras, store the cooked chicken patties and salsa separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The burgers keep well for up to 3 days, and the salsa is best eaten within 24 hours to avoid browning of the avocado.
Freezing
Chicken patties freeze very well, so if you want to prep in advance, shape the patties and freeze them uncooked with parchment paper between each one. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and proceed with cooking as usual. The salsa is not recommended for freezing due to its fresh avocado content.
Reheating
Warm leftovers gently in a skillet over medium heat or microwave briefly to retain the burger’s juiciness. Add fresh avocado corn salsa when serving to restore that vibrant freshness and crunch rather than reheating it.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a lean substitute and will absorb all the spices and flavors with the same great results.
How do I keep the avocado from browning in the salsa?
Using fresh lime juice and making the salsa right before serving helps prevent browning. If you must prepare in advance, cover tightly with plastic wrap, pressing the wrap onto the surface of the salsa to limit air exposure.
Can I grill these burgers outdoors on a barbecue?
Yes! Just oil the grill grates well and cook the patties over medium heat until fully cooked through, flipping once for perfect char marks.
What can I add to the burger mix for more flavor?
Try adding a pinch of cumin, chili powder, or even some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil for an extra layer of aromatic goodness.
Are these burgers gluten-free?
They can be easily made gluten-free by swapping regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives or simply omitting the breadcrumbs and using a bit more egg to bind.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe is such a joy to make and eat—the flavors are fresh and lively, and the combination of juicy chicken with creamy salsa is truly unbeatable. Whether for a casual family dinner or a summer cookout with friends, these burgers are sure to become a favorite. Give it a try, and you might just find yourself craving them again and again!
Print
Chicken Burgers with Avocado Corn Salsa Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These chicken burgers with avocado corn salsa are juicy, flavorful, and perfect for a fresh, summery meal. The burgers are seasoned and pan-fried or grilled to perfection, then topped with a zesty avocado and corn salsa that adds creaminess, crunch, and just the right amount of zing. Serve on buns or lettuce wraps for a lighter option!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for grilling or pan-frying)
For the Avocado Corn Salsa:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cooked corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
To Serve:
- Burger buns or lettuce wraps
- Optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, mayo, or cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the burgers tender.
- Form Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, ensuring they are evenly shaped for uniform cooking.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 5–6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the patties are golden brown.
- Prepare the Avocado Corn Salsa: While the burgers are cooking, combine diced avocado, cooked corn kernels, finely diced red onion, halved cherry tomatoes, lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl. Gently toss to combine without mashing the avocado.
- Assemble the Burgers: If desired, toast the burger buns lightly. Place the cooked chicken patty on the bun or lettuce wrap, spoon a generous amount of avocado corn salsa on top, and add any optional toppings such as lettuce, tomato, mayo, or cheese.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the burgers fresh for the best texture and flavor experience.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cumin or chili powder to the burger mix.
- You can prep the patties ahead of time and refrigerate until ready to cook.
- The avocado salsa is best served fresh to retain its creamy texture and vibrant flavor.
