If you are craving a juicy, flavorful burger with a wholesome twist, the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is your new best friend. These burgers bring together tender ground chicken mixed with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese for a delightful burst of savory goodness in every bite. Not only are they easy to prepare, but their vibrant colors and rich flavors make them a crowd-pleaser for lunch, dinner, or even a weekend barbecue gathering. Let me walk you through why this burger recipe deserves a permanent spot in your recipe box!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, fresh ingredients that each add their own magic to the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe. From the juicy chicken to the sharpness of white cheddar and the freshness of spinach, every element plays a vital role in creating the perfect flavor and texture balance.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps these burgers light yet juicy.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped: Adds a beautiful green color and a subtle earthy flavor that blends perfectly with the chicken.
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Gives these burgers their signature rich, creamy, and tangy taste.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps to bind the patties while keeping them tender and moist.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Brings a mild sweetness and crunch for enhanced flavor depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Provides a fragrant kick that lifts the overall taste profile.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Injects a subtle tang that brightens every bite.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and savory complexity to the mix.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that bring all the flavors together.
- Olive oil, for cooking: Used to achieve a beautiful sear and keep the patties from sticking.
- 4 burger buns: The soft, pillowy base for assembling your delicious creation.
- Optional toppings (lettuce, tomato slices, extra cheese): Customize your burger with fresh additions for extra crunch and freshness.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Combine Your Ingredients
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and gently mixing ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Be gentle with the mix to keep the texture light and tender without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Shape Into Patties
Divide your mixture evenly into four portions. Using your hands, gently shape each into a patty about ¾-inch thick. This size ensures they cook evenly and stay juicy.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet over medium heat and lightly drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, flipping once, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This guarantees they’re thoroughly cooked but still moist inside.
Step 4: Let the Patties Rest
After cooking, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This step helps the juices redistribute through the meat, making each bite irresistibly juicy.
Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy!
Place each succulent patty on a burger bun and add your favorite toppings like fresh lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy the delicious combination of flavors and textures in this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe.
How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Simple, fresh garnishes make a big difference. Crisp lettuce leaves add a refreshing crunch, while ripe tomato slices bring brightness and acidity. Want to amp up that cheesy goodness? Melt some extra white cheddar on top just before serving for an ooey-gooey finish.
Side Dishes
This burger pairs wonderfully with oven-baked sweet potato fries for a touch of natural sweetness and crunch. A light mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette works beautifully to balance the richness, or try some roasted vegetables for a colorful, nutritious side.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Skip the bun and serve your patty over a bed of quinoa or wild rice for a gluten-free twist. Alternatively, stack your burger with avocado slices and a dollop of chipotle mayo for a smoky heat that complements the white cheddar and spinach perfectly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Cooked burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to cool them completely before sealing to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess.
Freezing
If you want to stash these burgers for longer, freeze the uncooked patties individually on a baking sheet. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-lock bag or airtight container and keep in the freezer for up to 2 months. This makes for an easy, ready-to-cook meal any time.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or thawed cooked patties gently in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. This method preserves their juicy texture better than microwaving, which can dry them out.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chopped spinach; just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture before mixing it in. This prevents the patties from becoming too wet and falling apart.
What kind of cheese works best besides white cheddar?
While white cheddar balances the flavors beautifully with its tang and creaminess, you could also try mozzarella for a milder taste or pepper jack for a spicy kick.
Are these burgers gluten-free?
The recipe includes breadcrumbs, which contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or finely crushed gluten-free crackers instead.
How do I know when the chicken burgers are fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). The patties should also be firm to the touch and have no pink color inside.
Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking on a skillet?
Absolutely! These patties hold together well and are perfect for grilling. Just make sure your grill is preheated and lightly oiled to prevent sticking, then cook over medium heat for about 5-6 minutes per side.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe will become one of those meals you turn to again and again for quick, satisfying, and wholesome deliciousness. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes every bite memorable. So grab your skillet, mix up these patties, and enjoy a burger that’s as healthy as it is flavorful!
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are flavorful, juicy, and packed with nutritious spinach and melty white cheddar cheese. They make a satisfying and delicious meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or casual weekend cookout.
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a burger patty, making sure they are uniform in thickness for even cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked through.
- Rest the patties: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain the juices and flavor inside the burgers.
- Assemble and serve: Place each patty on a burger bun and add your choice of optional toppings like lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious chicken burgers!
Notes
- Make sure not to overmix the chicken mixture to keep the burgers tender.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to prevent undercooked chicken.
- Feel free to substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Adding Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce adds depth of flavor but can be adjusted to taste.
- These burgers can be cooked on a grill if preferred, adjusting cook time accordingly.
