White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers

These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers balance juicy ground chicken with creamy melty cheese and leafy greens. The recipe comes together quickly for a satisfying meal that feels both special and wholesome. My family cannot get enough of these every time I make them and it is always the first thing gone at our backyard barbecue nights.

My kids ask for these burgers even on busy weeknights and I love that I can sneak in extra veggies without anyone noticing.

Ingredients

• Lean ground chicken: provides juicy texture and lighter flavor than beef Choose the freshest package or grind your own if possible

• Fresh spinach: adds beautiful color and hidden nutrients The leaves should look crisp with no yellowing

• Sharp white cheddar cheese: offers creamy melty pockets and bold taste Always shred from a block for the freshest results

• Garlic powder: brings subtle savory background Look for a fragrant jar

• Panko bread crumbs: create a light tender interior Crisp Japanese-style panko works best

• Large egg: binds everything and keeps patties moist Use the freshest eggs for optimal results

• Salt and pepper: heighten all other flavors Taste before shaping patties to adjust seasoning if needed

• Olive oil: helps the patties brown evenly Choose extra virgin for best flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine Ingredients:

Mix the ground chicken spinach cheddar cheese garlic powder panko bread crumbs egg salt and pepper in a large bowl until just combined Do not overwork as this can make the patties dense

Shape Patties:

Divide mixture into evenly sized portions and gently shape each into 1 inch thick patties Place on a plate and let rest for a few minutes while you heat the pan

Preheat Skillet:

Add olive oil to a heavy bottomed skillet and warm over medium heat Wait until the oil shimmers to ensure a crisp golden crust

Cook Burgers:

Place patties in the skillet without crowding Cook on the first side for 5 to 6 minutes until the bottoms develop a deep golden color Flip and cook the other side another 5 to 6 minutes until the centers read 165 degrees Fahrenheit Use a thermometer for best results

Serve:

Transfer burgers to a plate and let rest for two minutes Enjoy on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce tomato or a quick garlic mayo

Save

I always look forward to the moment I mix in extra spinach There is something so satisfying about seeing the bright green flecks in every bite My kids have no idea how healthy they actually are but they always come running when they smell these cooking

Storage Tips

Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days They also freeze well Just stack between parchment paper and seal in a freezer bag Reheat gently in a skillet or oven to retain the juiciness

Ingredient Substitutions

Feel free to swap the white cheddar for another cheese like monterey jack or provolone If you have frozen spinach squeeze out the moisture before stirring in For gluten free needs use GF panko or crushed rice crackers in place of regular panko

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burgers on toasted brioche or whole grain buns Add fresh toppings like sliced tomato avocado or a smear of yogurt dill sauce For a low carb option skip the bun and wrap in crisp butter lettuce leaves

Cultural and Historical Context

Chicken burgers were popularized as a lighter alternative to classic beef versions This twist brings together elements from American comfort food with a healthy Mediterranean vibe thanks to the spinach and olive oil Families looking for nutritious ways to reboot burger night will love this flavor combination

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes, thaw the frozen spinach and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to the mixture to prevent soggy patties.

→ How do I keep chicken burgers moist?

Combine the ground chicken with egg, bread crumbs, and cheese, and avoid overcooking to retain juiciness.

→ What's the best way to serve these burgers?

Serve on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, or a creamy sauce for extra flavor.

→ Can I grill these burgers instead of pan-cooking?

Yes, grill them over medium heat, ensuring the patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.

→ Is white cheddar necessary, or can I use other cheese?

Feel free to substitute with other sharp cheeses, such as regular cheddar or gouda, for a different taste profile.