Let me tell you about a truly delightful dish that has quickly become one of my personal favorites in the kitchen — the White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe. This recipe marries juicy, tender ground chicken with the sharp, creamy bite of white cheddar cheese and the fresh, vibrant taste of finely chopped spinach. Each bite is packed with flavor and a satisfying texture that makes it stand out from the typical burger. It’s a perfect meal for any day of the week when you want something wholesome, comforting, and a touch sophisticated. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will be your go-to burger for a cozy night in or a casual gathering with friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredient list right is half the joy of cooking this recipe. The beauty here lies in how each element is simple yet essential, contributing to the burger’s incredible flavor, moisture, and colorful appeal. These basics combine to create a perfectly balanced patty every time.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean and tender protein base that keeps these burgers juicy but light.
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped: Adds a fresh green pop and a nutritional boost without overpowering the burger.
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully to infuse every bite with creamy, tangy richness.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind everything together and ensures the patties stay moist and hold their shape.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Brings a subtle sweetness and a touch of crunch for complexity.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth and a savory punch.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Introduces a gentle zing and ties the flavors together.
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: Adds umami and a bit of tang that rounds out the taste.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Simple seasoning to elevate every ingredient.
- Olive oil, for cooking: Ensures a beautifully browned exterior and helps prevent sticking.
- 4 burger buns: The perfect vessel to hold all that deliciousness together.
- Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese for added freshness and flair.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix It All Together
Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl and combining your ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. The trick is to mix everything gently and evenly, so your patties hold together without becoming tough. This mixture is where all the magic begins—every ingredient plays a vital role in flavor and texture, so be sure to combine them thoroughly but lovingly.
Step 2: Shape Your Patties
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Then, with clean hands, gently shape each portion into a slightly thick patty that will hold its shape as it cooks. Taking care with the shaping ensures even cooking and a great presentation once on the bun. It’s like crafting your little edible masterpieces.
Step 3: Cook to Juicy Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking and promote a golden crust. Place the patties in the pan and cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. The goal here is an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to guarantee they’re safely cooked but still juicy. Watching those edges brown and the cheese inside melt is always rewarding.
Step 4: Let the Patties Rest
After cooking, transfer the chicken burgers to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This little pause allows the juices to redistribute and settle so each bite remains tender and flavorful. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference in taste and texture.
Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy
Finally, the fun part — assembling your burgers! Place each patty on a fresh bun and top with your favorite additions like crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, or even an extra sprinkle of white cheddar. The combinations are endless, and every one will highlight the star ingredients in this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe.
How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
To truly brighten up your burger, think fresh and crisp. Lettuce leaves add a satisfying crunch, while juicy tomato slices lend acidity that balances the richness of the cheddar and chicken. A dollop of creamy mayo or a smear of tangy mustard can elevate your burger even further. Don’t be shy with fresh herbs like basil or parsley for an aromatic flourish that impresses with every bite.
Side Dishes
Pairing your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe with the right sides can turn a simple meal into an experience. Think sweet potato fries for a hint of sweetness, or a crisp garden salad for light, refreshing contrast. Roasted vegetables with a sprinkle of parmesan provide earthy depth, while classic coleslaw offers tang and crunch that complement the burger beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re hosting or just want to switch things up, get creative by serving these patties as sliders with mini buns for a fun appetizer twist. Alternatively, remove the bun entirely for a low-carb option, serving the patties atop fresh greens with a drizzle of your favorite dressing. Wrapping them in lettuce leaves or serving alongside grilled corn can also add delightful texture and color to the plate.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Any extra cooked patties from your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep them separate from any buns or fresh toppings to maintain their texture and flavor. This makes for a quick and delicious lunch or dinner option the next day without any hassle.
Freezing
If you want to enjoy these burgers later, freeze the uncooked patties by placing them on a parchment-lined tray and freezing until solid, then transferring to a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and cook as usual for a fresh-tasting burger anytime.
Reheating
Reheat cooked patties gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it tends to dry out the chicken. Adding a splash of water to the pan can help retain moisture. Reheated burgers are nearly as delicious as fresh ones, making this recipe wonderfully convenient.
FAQs
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out any excess moisture from frozen spinach before adding it to your mixture. This prevents the patties from becoming too wet and helps maintain their perfect texture.
What type of cheese works best?
While white cheddar is the star of this recipe, you can experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella for a milder melt or pepper jack for a spicy kick. The key is choosing a cheese that melts well and complements the chicken and spinach flavors.
Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking in a skillet?
Yes! Grilling is a fantastic option that adds smoky flavor. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well and cook the patties over medium heat to avoid drying them out.
What’s the best way to keep these burgers moist?
The combination of spinach, cheese, and breadcrumbs really helps keep these patties juicy. Be gentle when mixing and avoid pressing the patties too tightly during shaping. Also, cooking them at medium heat ensures they don’t dry out too quickly.
Are these burgers kid-friendly?
Definitely! Mild flavors with a cheesy, familiar taste make these chicken burgers a hit with kids. You can always customize toppings to suit little palates or serve with fun side dishes they love.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly comforting and special about a homemade burger, especially when it’s as flavorful and nourishing as this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe. It’s an exciting twist on the classic, blending fresh greens and rich cheese that anyone can enjoy. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try — once you do, this recipe will likely find a permanent spot in your meal rotation. Happy cooking and even happier eating!
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers offer a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic chicken burger. Made with tender ground chicken, fresh spinach, and sharp white cheddar cheese, these patties are perfectly seasoned and pan-cooked to juicy perfection. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner, they’re served on soft buns with optional fresh toppings like lettuce and tomato for a satisfying and wholesome meal.
Ingredients
Chicken 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
Burger Assembly
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese
Instructions
- Mix Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix everything together until the ingredients are evenly incorporated but not overworked to maintain tenderness.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty about 3/4 inch thick, ensuring they hold together well to prevent breaking during cooking.
- Cook Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are safely cooked through.
- Rest Patties: Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and allow them to rest for a few minutes. This helps the juices redistribute for a moist and flavorful burger.
- Assemble Burgers: Place each cooked patty on a burger bun and add your favorite optional toppings such as 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 patties tender.
- Use fresh spinach finely chopped to evenly distribute flavor and moisture.
- You can substitute white cheddar with any sharp cheese of your choice for variation.
- Allowing patties to rest after cooking helps retain juiciness.
- Ensure patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.
