White Cheddar Spinach Chicken

These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a weeknight lifesaver and one way I manage to sneak veggies into our dinner rotation without any complaints. The creamy sharpness of white cheddar melts right into juicy chicken while spinach keeps everything moist and bright. Quick to throw together and full of flavor these burgers have quickly become the most requested main at casual get-togethers with my family.

The first time I made these I was hoping to convince my pickiest eater to try spinach. When he asked for seconds I knew I had stumbled upon a keeper This is now my standby for busy evenings when I want something foolproof and delicious

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: Provides a lean juicy base for burgers Look for pasture raised or air chilled if possible for better texture
• Fresh spinach: Adds color nutrition and keeps burgers tender Choose bright green leaves with no wilt
• Shredded white cheddar cheese: Brings creamy tang Opt for a hand shredded block for best melt and flavor
• Breadcrumbs: Help burgers hold together and soak up juices Panko or fresh work great
• Finely chopped onion: Brings savory depth and sweetness Pick firm onions with papery skins
• Garlic cloves minced: Offers gentle aromatic bite Fresh garlic makes a big difference
• Dijon mustard: Lends a zesty backbone Use a high quality Dijon for robust flavor
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami punch Go for the classic variety for complex notes
• Salt and black pepper: Season everything evenly Use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper if you can
• Olive oil: Prevents sticking and adds subtle richness Use extra virgin for light flavor
• Burger buns: Soft canvas for all the good stuff I love a sturdy potato roll here
• Optional toppings: Lettuce tomato slices extra cheese Personalize every burger and keep it fresh

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Mixture:

In a large bowl gently combine the ground chicken with chopped spinach shredded cheddar breadcrumbs onion garlic Dijon mustard Worcestershire sauce salt and pepper Mix with clean hands or a spatula just until combined but do not overwork to keep burgers tender

Shape Patties:

Divide the mixture into four equal portions Shape each into a patty about three quarters inch thick Press a small divot in the center to prevent puffing during cooking

Cook the Burgers:

Heat a skillet over medium heat Drizzle in a little olive oil Once hot add the patties Cook undisturbed for five to six minutes per side Flip gently so the cheese does not stick Cook until golden brown and the internal temperature reads 165 degrees Fahrenheit for safety

Rest the Patties:

Transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes This helps the juices settle so every bite is juicy not dry

Assemble and Serve:

Layer each patty onto a bun Add your choice of lettuce tomato or more cheese Top with the other half of the bun Serve immediately with extra napkins

Save

I adore the way white cheddar not only melts beautifully but also adds a pop of sharpness to each bite Last summer my youngest insisted on layering on extra slices because cheese is his favorite food We all ended up following his lead and no one regretted it

Storage Tips

Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days To freeze wrap burgers individually and tuck into a freezer bag Good for up to three months Let thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating Gently rewarm in a skillet or microwave to keep the texture tender

Ingredient Substitutions

You can swap in ground turkey for chicken with excellent results If you need gluten free use gluten free breadcrumbs and buns Swap white cheddar for yellow cheddar or Monterey Jack for a milder taste For a veggie packed twist finely grate in a carrot or some zucchini while mixing

Serving Suggestions

These burgers shine with traditional toppings like pickle chips and red onion rings but I also love a smear of garlic aioli or avocado slices They pair perfectly with crispy sweet potato fries or a simple side salad For a lighter bite skip the bun and serve over greens bowl style

Cultural or Historical Context

Chicken burgers are a modern play on a classic that began gaining traction as folks looked for lighter burger alternatives White cheddar brings a little old world flair from English traditions while spinach is a gentle nod to the leafy greens that have been used in Mediterranean cooking for centuries Combining them in burger form is a tasty reflection of how weeknight dinners have happily evolved

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep the chicken patties moist?

Mix the ingredients gently and avoid overworking the ground chicken. The spinach and cheese help retain moisture during cooking.

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

Yes, these patties can be grilled over medium heat. Oil the grill grates and cook until the patties reach 165°F internally.

→ What toppings pair well with these chicken burgers?

Lettuce, tomato slices, extra cheese, or your favorite condiments complement the flavor of these savory patties.

→ Is there a gluten-free option?

Substitute gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free buns to make this meal suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

→ How should I store leftovers?

Store cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.