If you’re searching for a burger that’s bursting with flavor, colorful, and just downright satisfying, the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe combines tender ground chicken with the fresh zing of spinach and the creamy, sharp kick of white cheddar, creating patties that are juicy and packed with personality. Beyond just delicious, these burgers bring a beautiful color contrast and a delightful texture that will have you wanting seconds, thirds, and maybe even fourths.
Ingredients You’ll Need
With just a handful of straightforward ingredients, this recipe is all about simplicity without skimping on flavor. Each component plays a starring role—ground chicken provides a lean, tender base; fresh spinach adds vibrant color and freshness; while white cheddar delivers that irresistible cheesy melt. Let’s break down what you’ll need:
- 1 lb ground chicken: Use fresh, lean ground chicken for the perfect burger texture and protein-packed goodness.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped: Adds a pop of green and subtle, nutritious earthiness.
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Brings creamy, sharp flavor that melts beautifully into the patties.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together and keeps the burgers moist.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Adds a hint of sweetness and aromatic depth.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Packs a punch of savory warmth that rounds out the flavors.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Infuses a subtle tang that lifts the entire mix.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Gives the patties a savory umami boost.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance every bite.
- Olive oil, for cooking: Adds a buttery richness and helps create a golden crust.
- 4 burger buns: Choose your favorite—whether classic, whole wheat, or brioche.
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese to personalize your burger experience.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture
Start by combining all your key ingredients in a mixing bowl: ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon, just enough to combine it evenly without overworking the meat, which could make the burgers tough. This step is crucial for keeping your patties tender and delicious.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Once mixed, divide the mixture into four equal portions. Using your hands, form each portion into a firm, evenly sized patty. Keeping the patties consistent in size ensures they cook evenly and hold together without falling apart. If the mixture feels too soft, a tiny sprinkle of extra breadcrumbs can help, but avoid adding too much.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. When the oil shimmers, carefully place your patties in the pan. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side without pressing down, allowing a golden-brown crust to develop while the inside cooks through. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure the chicken is safely cooked yet juicy. This cooking step guarantees burgers that are perfectly browned outside and tender inside.
Step 4: Let the Patties Rest
After cooking, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This pause allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, making every bite nice and juicy instead of dry. Trust me, this little step makes a big difference!
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Now for the fun part—building your burger masterpiece. Place each patty on a fresh burger bun, then add any toppings you love, like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, or an extra slice of white cheddar for extra melt and flavor. The combinations are endless and totally customizable to your taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers immediately for the best flavor and texture. Pair them with your favorite sides, and get ready to indulge in a burger experience that is fresh, flavorful, and a total crowd-pleaser.
How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices add a refreshing crunch and juiciness that pair wonderfully with the savory, cheesy chicken patties. An extra slice of white cheddar melted on top elevates the flavors even more, giving each bite a creamy finish. Don’t forget a smear of your favorite sauce or a dash of pickles for balance!
Side Dishes
Complement your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers with classic sides such as crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or even some tangy coleslaw. These sides brighten the meal and add textural contrast, making your burger dinner well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve these burgers on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option or open-faced with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a gourmet flair. You can also experiment by adding caramelized onions or roasted red peppers to create exciting new flavor profiles. Presentation is all about showcasing the juicy, cheesy patties with a pop of green from the spinach.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator within two hours of cooking. Proper storage will keep them fresh for 3 to 4 days, so you can enjoy a quick and tasty meal later in the week without starting from scratch.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until solid. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Frozen patties will maintain their quality for up to three months. To cook, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then follow the cooking instructions as usual.
Reheating
Reheat your cooked chicken burgers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to prevent them from drying out. Covering them with foil while warming helps retain moisture, ensuring your burger stays juicy and flavorful the second time around.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute and has a similar mild flavor and texture. Just keep an eye on the cooking time since turkey can dry out faster than chicken.
Is it necessary to use fresh spinach, or can I use frozen?
Fresh spinach is best for texture and color, but frozen spinach can be used if well-drained and squeezed dry to avoid adding extra moisture to the patties.
What type of cheese works best if I can’t find white cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is a great alternative, or you can try Monterey Jack or mozzarella for a milder melt—each will bring a different, yet delicious, flavor profile to your burgers.
Can I bake these chicken burgers instead of cooking them on the stove?
Yes, baking is a great hands-off method. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the patties on a lined baking sheet, and bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through until cooked thoroughly.
How can I make these burgers spicier?
Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the burger mixture for some heat. You could also spice up your toppings with spicy mayo or pepper jack cheese.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe that makes it a standout crowd-pleaser. It’s easy enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for guests, combining wholesome ingredients into juicy, flavorful patties that feel like a treat every time. I hope you give this recipe a try soon and enjoy the comforting, cheesy, and fresh flavors as much as I do!
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers combine lean ground chicken with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar for a flavorful, protein-packed meal. Enhanced with garlic, onion, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce, these juicy patties are pan-cooked to perfection and served on toasted burger buns with your choice of fresh toppings. Ready in under 30 minutes, they make a delicious and wholesome option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
For the 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
To Serve
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Be careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the burgers tender.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a firm, evenly sized patty to ensure even cooking and prevent them from falling apart.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Once hot, place the chicken patties in the skillet. Cook each side for 5-6 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the Patties Rest: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute, keeping the burgers moist and flavorful.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each patty on a burger bun and add your choice of toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, or an extra slice of cheddar cheese for added taste and texture.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the assembled burgers immediately with your favorite side dishes for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach finely chopped to evenly distribute flavor and moisture throughout the patties.
- Do not over mix the chicken mixture to prevent dense and tough burgers.
- Ensure the chicken patties are cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for food safety.
- Feel free to customize toppings to your preference, adding avocado, pickles, or sauces for more flavor.
- If desired, buns can be lightly toasted in the skillet before assembling the burgers for extra texture.
