These Healthy White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a tasty twist on your regular burger! Packed with lean chicken, creamy white cheddar, and fresh spinach, they’re juicy and flavorful.
I love how easy these are to whip up! They make a great meal on busy nights, and my family gobbles them up every time. Perfect on a bun or served with a side salad!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Lean and flavorful, ground chicken breast keeps these burgers light. If you want more flavor, you can use ground turkey or lean ground beef instead.
Fresh Spinach: It adds color and nutrition. If fresh spinach isn’t available, you can use frozen spinach (just make sure to thaw and drain it well).
White Cheddar Cheese: This provides a creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-fat option, try part-skim mozzarella or a dairy-free cheese for a vegan version.
Greek Yogurt: I use this for moisture and to keep the burgers tender. If you don’t have it, sour cream or a non-dairy yogurt works well too!
Breadcrumbs: Whole wheat gives a nice texture. Feel free to substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Burgers Without Drying Them Out?
To keep your chicken burgers juicy, it’s all about the cooking method and not overmixing the meat. Here are some tips:
- When mixing the ingredients, stir just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Cook on medium heat for even cooking without drying them out. If they’re cooking too fast, they can burn on the outside before cooking through.
- Check the internal temperature using a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) without guessing.
- Let the cooked patties rest for a couple of minutes before assembling the burgers. This helps juices redistribute.
Healthy White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken breast
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (optional, for moisture)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (or regular)
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 whole wheat hamburger buns
- 4 tsp mayonnaise or Greek yogurt (for spreading)
- Fresh spinach leaves, for topping
- Olive oil or cooking spray, for the pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook, for a total time of about 30 minutes. So you can enjoy these delicious burgers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, Greek yogurt (if using), chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix all the ingredients gently until just combined; be careful not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4-inch thick. They should hold together well but be moist and tender.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. Once hot, add the chicken patties. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the whole wheat hamburger buns in a toaster or a separate pan until they’re warm and slightly crispy.
5. Assemble Your Burgers:
Spread about 1 teaspoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Next, place a handful of fresh spinach leaves on the mayo, then top with the cooked chicken patty. Finally, cover with the top bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your healthy, flavorful White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers right away! They make a delicious meal any time of the week.
Can I Substitute Ground Chicken with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey or even lean ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and fat content will change slightly.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance! Form them and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them before cooking for up to 3 months; just make sure to thaw in the fridge before cooking when you’re ready to enjoy.
What Can I Serve with These Burgers?
These burgers pair well with a variety of sides! Consider serving them with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or sweet potato fries for a complete meal.