White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

Hey there, my burger-craving friend! Get ready to fire up the grill (or skillet) for these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers—juicy, flavorful patties that pack a punch of cheesy, veggie goodness! Imagine lean ground chicken mixed with sharp white cheddar, vibrant spinach, and a hint of garlic, all formed into tender burgers that are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a summer barbecue, or a meal-prep win. Topped with your favorite fixings, these burgers are a healthier twist on a classic that don’t skimp on taste. Trust me, this recipe is a total game-changer, and you’ll be sinking your teeth into burger bliss in no time!

Why You’ll Love White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
These burgers aren’t just a meal—they’re a delicious way to enjoy a lighter, flavor-packed dish. Whether you’re feeding the family, hosting a cookout, or looking for a make-ahead lunch option, here’s why they’re a must-make:

• Versatile: Serve on buns for a classic burger, in lettuce wraps for a low-carb option, or crumbled over a salad for a protein boost.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses affordable ground chicken, a handful of spinach, and pantry staples, keeping your wallet happy.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes with simple prep, perfect for busy evenings or last-minute meals.
• Customizable: Swap cheeses, add spices, or pile on your favorite toppings to make them your own.
• Crowd-Pleasing: The cheesy, juicy patties are a hit with kids and adults, making them a family-friendly favorite.

Ingredients in White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

These burgers come together with simple ingredients that create a juicy, cheesy, and veggie-packed patty. Here’s what makes them so special:

Ground Chicken

Lean ground chicken (preferably a mix of breast and thigh) forms the tender, protein-packed base.

White Cheddar Cheese

Sharp white cheddar, shredded fresh, adds a tangy, creamy flavor that melts beautifully into the patties.

Spinach

Finely chopped fresh spinach adds a pop of green, nutrients, and a mild earthy flavor.

Garlic

Minced garlic brings a savory, aromatic depth to the burgers.

Breadcrumbs

A small amount of breadcrumbs (panko or regular) helps bind the patties and keeps them juicy.

Egg

One egg acts as a binder, ensuring the patties hold together during cooking.

Worcestershire Sauce

A splash adds savory, umami richness that enhances the chicken’s flavor.

Olive Oil

Used for cooking, it ensures a golden, slightly crispy exterior.

Salt and Pepper

Essentials to season the patties and bring out all the flavors.

Optional Toppings

Burger buns, lettuce, tomato, avocado, mayo, or a spicy aioli for building your perfect burger.

(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Ingredients List

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• ¾ cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
• 1 large egg
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• Optional: 4 burger buns, lettuce, tomato, avocado, mayo, or aioli for serving

Instructions

Let’s make these juicy, cheesy burgers:

Preheat Your Equipment

Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat, or preheat an outdoor grill to medium (about 375°F/190°C). Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking.

Mix the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined—don’t overmix to keep the patties tender.

Form the Patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ½-inch thick. Make a slight indent in the center of each patty to prevent puffing during cooking.

Cook the Burgers

Add olive oil to the skillet or brush the grill grates. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the exterior is golden. Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep them juicy.

Finishing Touches

Let the burgers rest for 2-3 minutes to lock in the juices. If using buns, lightly toast them on the grill or in the skillet for extra crunch.

Assemble and Serve

Place each patty on a bun (or lettuce wrap) and add your favorite toppings—lettuce, tomato, avocado, mayo, or a spicy aioli work great. Serve hot with your choice of sides.

Serve and Enjoy

Dig in while the burgers are warm and the cheese is melty! Pair with fries, a salad, or your favorite side for a complete meal.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 320 kcal (without bun or toppings)

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

These burgers are endlessly versatile—here’s how to make them shine:

• Fresh Salads: Pair with a crisp green salad or a cucumber-tomato salad for a light, balanced meal.
• Crusty Bread: Serve on toasted brioche, whole-grain, or pretzel buns for a classic burger experience, or use lettuce wraps for low-carb.
• Creamy Accompaniments: Spread mayo, garlic aioli, or mashed avocado on the bun for extra richness.
• Vegetable Sides: Roasted sweet potato fries, grilled zucchini, or coleslaw add color and crunch.
• As a Standalone: Skip the bun and serve the patties over a bed of greens or quinoa for a protein-packed bowl.

Presentation matters! Stack the burgers on a rustic plate with vibrant toppings peeking out, and serve with a side of pickles or fries for a diner-inspired vibe.

Additional Tips

Here’s how to make these burgers even better:

• Prep Ahead: Mix and form the patties up to a day ahead, then refrigerate. Cook fresh for the best texture, or freeze for up to 2 months.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of smoked paprika, cayenne, or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a subtle kick.
• Dietary Adjustments: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for a GF version, or swap white cheddar for feta or Gouda for a flavor twist.
• Storage Tips: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or oven to keep them juicy.
• Juicy Patty Tip: Don’t overmix the meat mixture, and avoid overcooking—use a meat thermometer to hit 165°F exactly for perfect juiciness.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
A1: Yes! Ground turkey works perfectly and has a similar lean profile. Adjust cooking time to ensure it reaches 165°F internally.

Q2: Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
A2: Absolutely! Form the patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours, or freeze for up to 2 months. Cook fresh or from frozen, adding a few extra minutes.

Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in a skillet or 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes.

Q4: Can I grill these burgers?
A4: Yes! Grill over medium heat for 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring they reach 165°F. Oil the grates well to prevent sticking.

Q5: What’s the best way to reheat these burgers?
A5: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes. Microwaving can make them soggy, so avoid if possible.

Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! Double the ingredients and cook in batches if needed. Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Q7: Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
A7: Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess water thoroughly to avoid soggy patties. Use about ¼ cup thawed spinach.

Q8: Are these burgers kid-friendly?
A8: Totally! The mild flavors and cheesy goodness appeal to kids. Serve with ketchup or a mild sauce for extra kid-appeal.

Q9: Can I make these without cheese?
A9: Sure! Skip the cheddar and add extra breadcrumbs or a tablespoon of nut butter to maintain moisture and binding.

Q10: Why are my burgers falling apart?
A10: Ensure the egg and breadcrumbs are well-mixed, and don’t skip chilling the patties for 10 minutes before cooking if they seem soft. Avoid flipping too early.

Conclusion

These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are your new go-to for a quick, flavorful meal that’s as healthy as it is delicious. With juicy chicken, melty white cheddar, and a pop of spinach in every bite, these burgers are a perfect balance of comfort and nutrition. Whether you’re piling them high with toppings, serving them bunless, or packing them for lunch, they’re sure to bring joy to your table. So grab your ingredients, fire up that skillet, and get ready to sink your teeth into a burger that’s pure, cheesy bliss!

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