If you’re craving a burger that’s bursting with flavor, juicy, and a little bit smoky with a perfect cheesy kick, then the Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe is exactly what you need. This recipe brings together tender ground chicken blended with sharp cheddar and smoky chipotle for a burger experience that’s both delicious and easy to make at home. Whether you’re seeking a weeknight dinner or an impressive game day treat, these burgers deliver bold Tex-Mex flair with every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple ingredients come together effortlessly to create layers of flavor, texture, and color in this recipe. Each component is vital—from the creamy sharp cheddar adding richness to the chipotle pepper providing just the right spice and smokiness.
- 1 pound ground chicken: Provides a lean and juicy base that carries all the flavors perfectly.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds melty, tangy richness to every bite.
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (minced): Brings a smoky heat that’s essential for that signature chipotle punch.
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce: Enhances depth of flavor and complements the pepper’s spice.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Contributes a subtle crunch and mild sweetness.
- 2 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses warmth and aromatic flavor.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Boosts smoky notes without overpowering the chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds earthy, slightly nutty undertones.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors and seasoning balance.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Gives a gentle spicy kick.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Prevents sticking and helps achieve a golden crust.
- 4 burger buns: Your burger’s hug—choose your favorite style for best results.
- Optional toppings (lettuce, tomato, red onion slices, avocado, chipotle mayo): Customize for freshness, creaminess, or extra smokiness.
How to Make Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Begin by placing the ground chicken in a large mixing bowl. Add the shredded cheddar, minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, finely chopped red onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Carefully combine everything using your hands or a spoon just until the ingredients are evenly distributed—being gentle ensures your burgers stay tender and juicy.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the seasoned mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a round, even patty about ¾ inch thick. Keep in mind that these patties will shrink slightly as they cook, so aim for a slightly larger size than your buns.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Look for a beautiful golden crust developing on the outside while ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F to guarantee the chicken is safely cooked through.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the burgers finish up, toast your burger buns lightly either in a toaster or in a separate pan with a dab of butter to add a slight crunch and enhance the overall texture contrast.
Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy
Layer your cooked chicken burger patty onto the warm bun and pile on any of your favorite toppings. A smear of chipotle mayo, crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, red onion rings, or creamy avocado all work beautifully here. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect melty, smoky goodness.
How to Serve Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
A great burger is made even better with fresh, vibrant garnishes. Crisp lettuce lends crunch and color, ripe tomato adds a juicy burst, and ripe avocado slices bring creamy richness. Don’t forget a generous swirl of chipotle mayo to echo that smoky heat right up front.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries for a sweeter counterpoint or a refreshing cabbage slaw that adds texture and cuts through the richness. Corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder is another fun Tex-Mex inspired side.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the burgers open-faced with plenty of toppings piled high, or wrap them in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option with fresh flavor. Setting up a burger bar with an array of toppings and sauces encourages everyone to personalize their own creation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftover burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. This helps retain moisture and flavor for a delicious next-day meal.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked or uncooked patties. For uncooked, separate with parchment paper and freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge. Cooked burgers freeze well too, just cool completely before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated burgers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or microwave on a medium setting for about 1 to 2 minutes. Avoid overheating to keep them juicy. If frozen, thaw before reheating for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well if you want a similar lean protein option. The flavors will remain just as delicious, though turkey is slightly drier, so be mindful not to overcook the patties.
How spicy are these burgers?
The chipotle pepper brings a moderate smoky heat that’s flavorful but not overwhelming. If you prefer less spice, use only half a chipotle pepper or reduce the adobo sauce slightly.
Can I make these burgers on an outdoor grill?
Yes! Grilling over medium heat adds an extra smoky char that pairs perfectly with the chipotle flavor. Just watch the cooking time to avoid drying out the patties.
What type of cheese can I substitute for cheddar?
Sharp cheddar gives a nice tang, but you can try pepper jack for extra spice or Monterey Jack for a milder melt. Just pick a cheese that melts well and matches your preferred flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the chicken burger itself is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use gluten-free burger buns or skip the bun entirely to keep it safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe, you’ll find it hard to go back to basic burgers. The perfect blend of smoky heat, sharp cheese, and tender chicken makes it a standout favorite for any occasion. Whip up a batch, invite friends over, and watch everyone fall in love with these juicy, flavorful burgers!
Print
Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American, Tex-Mex
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers are a flavorful twist on classic chicken burgers, featuring smoky chipotle pepper, sharp cheddar cheese, and aromatic spices. Juicy and tender ground chicken patties are seasoned perfectly and cooked on the stovetop or grill for a deliciously smoky crust. Serve with fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and avocado, and a spicy chipotle mayo for an irresistible burger experience that’s quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, red onion slices, avocado, chipotle mayo
Instructions
- Prepare the Patty Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar, minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, chopped red onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid a dense texture.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and gently form each into a patty, about 3/4-inch thick, ensuring even shapes for consistent cooking.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Cook the Patties: Place the patties on the skillet or grill pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Flip carefully to develop a golden-brown crust and cook through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Toast the Buns: While patties are cooking, optionally toast the burger buns lightly on the skillet or grill until golden and slightly crisp.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each cooked patty on the bottom bun and add your choice of toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, avocado, and a spread of chipotle mayo. Top with the other half of the bun.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the burgers hot for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- These burgers can also be cooked outdoors on a grill for a smoky flavor.
- Adjust the chipotle pepper quantity to tone down or amp up the heat; use half a pepper for milder spiciness.
- Ground turkey can be substituted for chicken if preferred.
- For gluten-free options, use gluten-free burger buns.
