Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a flavorful and healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. The combination of tender ground chicken, creamy white cheddar, and vibrant spinach makes each bite juicy and packed with nutrients. With added seasonings like Dijon mustard and dried oregano, these burgers are far from bland. Plus, they’re quick and easy to make, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights or casual weekend gatherings. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings for a delicious and satisfying meal everyone will love!

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Olive oil for cooking
Burger buns and your favorite toppings (e.g., lettuce, tomato, avocado)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into burger patties. Make sure the patties are slightly larger than the size of the burger buns as they will shrink slightly while cooking.
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken patties to the skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the patties are golden brown.
If desired, in the last minute of cooking, add a slice of white cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the skillet to melt the cheese.
Remove the patties from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. Meanwhile, toast the burger buns lightly in the skillet until golden.
Assemble your burgers by placing the cooked chicken patty on the bottom half of the bun. Add your favorite toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and avocado, then top with the other half of the bun.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit the breadcrumbs altogether and add a tablespoon of ground flax or almond flour for binding.
Add Spices: If you like a little heat, add red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper to the burger mix.
Cheese Options: Swap the white cheddar for another cheese like mozzarella or goat cheese for a different flavor.
Add More Veggies: Try mixing in additional veggies like grated zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover cooked chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: To reheat, warm the patties in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. You can also microwave them for 30-45 seconds, but they may lose some crispiness.

FAQs

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well in this recipe as a substitute for ground chicken. Just ensure it’s lean to keep the burger healthy.

2. How can I make these burgers spicier?

For a spicier version, add some chopped jalapeños, chili powder, or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture.

3. Can I make the patties in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

4. Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking them in a skillet?

Yes, these burgers can be grilled! Preheat the grill to medium heat, and cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side until fully cooked through.

5. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, simply omit the white cheddar cheese or use a dairy-free cheese substitute to keep it dairy-free.

6. How can I make the burgers more flavorful?

Consider adding some extra seasoning, such as garlic powder, smoked paprika, or Italian seasoning, to enhance the flavor profile.

7. Can I use pre-cooked spinach instead of fresh?

You can use frozen spinach that’s been thawed and drained, but fresh spinach will give the burger a lighter, fresher taste and texture.

8. What are some good side dishes to serve with these burgers?

These burgers pair wonderfully with a side salad, sweet potato fries, roasted veggies, or a simple avocado and tomato salad.

9. How do I know when the burgers are fully cooked?

The chicken burgers are fully cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You can check with a meat thermometer to be sure.

10. Can I bake these burgers instead of cooking them in a skillet?

Yes, you can bake the patties in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Conclusion

These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make alternative to traditional beef burgers. With the combination of ground chicken, creamy white cheddar, and fresh spinach, they’re not only delicious but also nutritious. Whether you’re making them for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these burgers are sure to become a new favorite on your menu. Top them with your favorite fixings and enjoy this mouthwatering, wholesome meal!