White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Delight

This white cheddar and spinach chicken burger recipe transforms ordinary poultry into juicy, flavorful patties that deliver restaurant-quality taste with homemade wholesomeness. The combination of fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar creates a perfect balance while keeping these burgers lighter than traditional beef options.

I created these burgers one summer evening when trying to use up extra spinach and ground chicken in my refrigerator. What started as a kitchen experiment quickly became my family's most requested dinner, especially when we're craving something satisfying but not too heavy.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: Provides a lean protein base that takes on flavors beautifully while staying juicy
• Fresh spinach: Adds color, nutrition, and a subtle earthy flavor that pairs perfectly with the cheese
• White cheddar cheese: Brings sharp creamy richness and helps bind the patties
• Breadcrumbs: Provide structure without making the burgers dense
• Onion and garlic: Create an aromatic foundation for deep savory flavor
• Dijon mustard: Adds tanginess and helps emulsify the mixture
• Worcestershire sauce: Brings umami depth that enhances the chicken's natural flavors
• Salt and pepper: Essential for bringing all flavors into focus
• Burger buns: Should be sturdy enough to hold the patties but not too dense

Step-by-Step Instructions

Combine ingredients:

Mix ground chicken with chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper in a large bowl. Use your hands to gently incorporate everything, being careful not to overmix which can make the patties tough. The mixture should hold together when pressed but still feel somewhat loose.

Form the patties:

Divide the mixture into four equal portions using a kitchen scale if available for perfect uniformity. Shape each portion into a patty slightly larger than your buns as they will shrink during cooking. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent them from puffing up in the middle.

Cook the patties:

Heat a skillet over medium heat until hot then add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place the patties in the pan without overcrowding and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on the first side until golden brown. Flip gently using a wide spatula and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid pressing down on the patties while cooking as this releases their precious juices.

Rest before serving:

Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and allow them to rest for at least 3 minutes. This critical step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat ensuring moist burgers. Use this time to prepare your buns and toppings.

Assemble and serve:

Place each patty on a bun and top with your favorite garnishes. For these particular burgers, crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and a spread of additional Dijon mustard complement the flavors beautifully. Serve immediately while hot.

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My absolute favorite thing about these burgers is how the white cheddar creates little pockets of melty goodness throughout each bite. I remember serving these at a summer barbecue where even the most dedicated beef burger enthusiasts went back for seconds, completely forgetting they were eating chicken!

Make-Ahead Options

These chicken burgers excel as a meal prep option. You can form the patties up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator with parchment paper between each patty. For longer storage, freeze the raw patties for up to three months. To use from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before cooking as directed. The cooked patties also reheat beautifully in a 325°F oven for about 10 minutes, making them perfect for quick lunches throughout the week.

Flavor Variations

While the original recipe is delicious, consider these variations to keep things interesting. Mediterranean style burgers can be created by swapping the white cheddar for feta cheese and adding chopped olives and oregano. For a southwest twist, incorporate pepper jack cheese instead of white cheddar and add a diced jalapeño and some cumin to the mixture. You can also experiment with different greens such as arugula or kale in place of spinach for varied flavor profiles and nutritional benefits.

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Serving Suggestions

These burgers pair wonderfully with lighter sides that complement their flavor profile. A simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette makes an excellent accompaniment. Sweet potato fries offer a nutritious alternative to regular fries while still providing that satisfying crunch. For a low carb option, serve these patties wrapped in large lettuce leaves instead of buns and pair with a cool cucumber and tomato salad. During summer months, grilled corn on the cob brushed with herb butter creates a perfect seasonal side dish.

Troubleshooting Tips

The most common issue with chicken burgers is dryness. If your patties seem to dry out during cooking, your heat may be too high or cooking time too long. Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F rather than relying solely on cooking times. If your mixture seems too wet to form patties, add additional breadcrumbs one tablespoon at a time until the consistency improves. Conversely, if the mixture feels too dry or dense, a tablespoon of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt can add moisture without compromising flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I grill these chicken burgers instead of pan-frying?

Yes, these chicken burgers can be grilled. Preheat your grill to medium heat, oil the grates, and cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side until fully cooked through.

→ How can I make these burgers gluten-free?

To make them gluten-free, replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free buns or serve the patties in lettuce wraps.

→ What are the best toppings for these chicken burgers?

Popular toppings include lettuce, tomato slices, additional white cheddar cheese, or even a dollop of your favorite sauce like aioli or mustard.

→ How should I store leftover patties?

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Alternatively, freeze them for up to 3 months for later use.

→ What side dishes go well with these chicken burgers?

These burgers pair well with sweet potato fries, a fresh green salad, roasted vegetables, or coleslaw for a balanced meal.

→ Can I replace the white cheddar with another cheese?

Yes, you can substitute white cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.