There is nothing quite like the bold, zesty punch you get from this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe. Imagine juicy ground chicken infused with smoky paprika and garlic, then kissed with spicy buffalo sauce for that signature tang. Toss in fresh jalapeño slices for heat and cheddar or pepper jack cheese to mellow the spice, all sandwiched between a perfectly toasted bun. It’s a vibrant, flavor-packed burger that feels like a party with every bite — perfect for game days, weeknight dinners, or whenever you crave something exciting but easy. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it might just become your new go-to burger obsession.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is the best way to ensure your Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe shines. Each element plays a vital role — from the ground chicken’s tender base, to the spicy buffalo sauce’s lively kick, and the crunchy jalapeños adding that perfect pop of heat and texture.
- 1 lb ground chicken: A lean and tender protein that soaks up spices beautifully.
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce: Brings the classic tangy, spicy flavor essential for that buffalo taste.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds a subtle garlicky depth without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances savory notes and complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Introduces smoky warmth to enrich the burger’s flavor profile.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances all the flavors and elevates the ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A touch of spice to wake up your taste buds.
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted: The ideal sturdy vessel to hold all the delicious fillings.
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (for basting): Keeps the patties moist and amps up the buffalo goodness.
- 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese: Melts beautifully, adding creaminess and depth.
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing: Balances the heat with cool, creamy notes.
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced: Fresh slices add crisp heat and a vibrant pop of color.
- Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional toppings): Classics that add freshness, crunch, and juiciness.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Start by placing the ground chicken in a bowl, then add garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently but thoroughly until well combined. This seasoning blend infuses every bite with layers of flavor that complement the buffalo sauce perfectly.
Step 2: Incorporate Buffalo Sauce
Pour in the 1/4 cup of buffalo sauce directly into the chicken mixture and fold it in evenly. This step is where the burger truly begins to embody that signature buffalo taste — tangy, spicy, and absolutely irresistible.
Step 3: Form and Cook Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about the size of your buns. Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side. During the last couple of minutes, baste each patty with additional buffalo sauce to keep them moist and pack in extra flavor.
Step 4: Melt the Cheese
Top each patty with a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese right after flipping or toward the end of cooking. Cover the skillet briefly to let the cheese melt beautifully so it adds a creamy counterpoint to the spicy, juicy burger.
Step 5: Toast the Buns
While the patties finish cooking, toast your hamburger buns lightly until golden and crisp on the edges. This step is crucial for texture, preventing sogginess and giving you a satisfying crunch with every bite.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on the toasted buns, place the buffalo chicken patty on the bottom half, then layer with thinly sliced jalapeños, lettuce, tomato, and red onion if using. Cap it with the top bun and get ready to dive into a burger bursting with flavors and textures.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your buffalo chicken burgers with fresh jalapeño slices adds a crisp, spicy kick that contrasts beautifully with the creamy dressing. A handful of shredded lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and thin rings of red onion not only add freshness but also provide vibrant colors that make these burgers as pretty as they are delicious.
Side Dishes
Nothing pairs better with the Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe than crispy fries or sweet potato wedges. For a lighter touch, try serving with a crunchy coleslaw or a simple side salad dressed with lime and cilantro to highlight the burger’s bold flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Get adventurous by turning these burgers into sliders for parties or game days — mini versions are perfect for sharing and snacking. Another fun presentation is stacking the ingredients open-faced on a toasted bun for a colorful and inviting look that shows off every spicy, melty layer.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days, ready to be reheated for a quick, flavorful meal the next day.
Freezing
For longer-term storage, you can freeze cooked patties separately in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2 months, then thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain that juicy texture and bold flavor.
Reheating
The best way to reheat Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe leftovers is to warm the patties gently in a skillet over low heat, covered, so they stay moist. Toast the buns separately to keep them crisp, then reassemble with fresh toppings or leftovers of dressing and jalapeños for maximum enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this burger?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute in this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe. It has a similar texture and will soak up the buffalo sauce just as nicely. Just be sure to cook it fully and keep an eye on moisture levels to avoid dryness.
How spicy is this burger with the jalapeños and buffalo sauce?
This burger has a noticeable but balanced heat. The buffalo sauce provides a medium-level spiciness, while the fresh jalapeños add a sharper, fresher kick. You can adjust the amount of jalapeños or choose milder cheeses to control the heat according to your preference.
What’s the best cheese to use for this burger?
Pepper jack and cheddar are both fantastic choices. Pepper jack gives an extra hint of spice and creaminess that complements the buffalo flavor, while cheddar adds a classic sharpness. Feel free to mix or match to find your favorite combination.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the hamburger buns for gluten-free buns or serve the burger wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free twist. Just double-check that your buffalo sauce and dressings are gluten-free as well.
Is there a vegetarian alternative to this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe?
Definitely! You can swap the ground chicken for plant-based ground meat or use a hearty black bean patty seasoned with buffalo sauce and spices. Adding the same jalapeño slices and cheese keeps all those bold, fiery flavors alive.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to try this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe. It strikes the perfect balance between spicy, smoky, and creamy, turning an ordinary burger into a flavor-packed masterpiece. Once you make it, I promise it will become a cherished favorite you’ll happily revisit again and again. So fire up your grill or skillet, gather those ingredients, and get ready to enjoy a burger experience that’s anything but ordinary!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger is a spicy and flavorful twist on the classic burger. Featuring ground chicken mixed with buffalo sauce and bold spices, it’s grilled to perfection and topped with melted cheese, fresh jalapeños, and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing. Perfect for those who love a bit of heat with their burger, this recipe delivers a delicious balance of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (for basting)
- 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
- Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, 1/4 cup buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Form Patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a burger patty about 3/4 inch thick.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties on the pan and cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Brush the top side of each patty with the additional buffalo sauce, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Add Cheese: In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese on each patty and cover the pan to let the cheese melt.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the hamburger buns until golden brown. Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on the bottom buns. Place the cooked chicken patties on top, then layer with thinly sliced jalapeños and optional lettuce, tomato, and red onion. Top with the bun crown.
- Serve: Serve the buffalo chicken jalapeño burgers immediately while hot and enjoy the spicy, savory flavors.
Notes
- For less heat, remove the jalapeño seeds before slicing.
- You can substitute ground turkey or ground turkey breast for an alternative lean protein.
- Use gluten-free buns if you require a gluten-free option.
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to your spice preference.
- Leftover patties can be refrigerated for up to 2 days.
