White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

There’s something undeniably comforting about a juicy burger, but lately, I’ve been craving something a little lighter—yet just as satisfying. Enter these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers, a delicious twist on the classic that’s packed with flavor and a little extra goodness. Picture this: tender ground chicken mingling with sharp white cheddar, fresh spinach, and just the right blend of spices, all nestled in a toasted bun. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but leaves you feeling nourished, too.

I first whipped these up on a lazy Sunday afternoon when my fridge was full of odds and ends—a handful of spinach here, a block of cheese there—and the result was so good, I knew I had to share it. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next cookout, these burgers are sure to become a new favorite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make these flavorful patties:

• 1 lb ground chicken – Opt for thigh meat if you can; it’s juicier and more flavorful than breast meat.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – Packed with nutrients and a lovely pop of color.
• ½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese – Sharp and melty, it’s the perfect complement to the chicken.
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the burgers together. Panko works great for extra crunch!
• 1 small onion, finely diced – Adds a subtle sweetness.
• 1 clove garlic, minced – Because what’s a burger without garlic?
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – A little tang to brighten up the flavors.
• ½ tsp smoked paprika – For a hint of warmth and depth.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing all the flavors together.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For cooking the burgers to golden perfection.
• Burger buns and your favorite toppings – Think avocado, tomato, or a smear of garlic aioli.

How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers

Now, let’s get cooking! These burgers come together in just a few simple steps:

1. Prep your spinach. Give it a quick chop—not too fine, but enough so it blends well into the mixture.
2. Mix the ingredients. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, spinach, white cheddar, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (don’t be shy!) to gently mix everything until just combined. Overmixing can make the burgers dense, so stop as soon as everything is evenly distributed.
3. Form the patties. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into ½-inch-thick patties. Pro tip: Press your thumb lightly into the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
4. Cook to perfection. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F). If you’re grilling, make sure to oil the grates well to prevent sticking.
5. Toast the buns. While the burgers rest for a minute (this keeps them juicy!), lightly toast your buns in the same skillet or on the grill for extra flavor.
6. Assemble and enjoy! Pile your burgers high with your favorite toppings and dig in while they’re warm and melty.

There you have it—a simple yet utterly delicious way to shake up burger night. The best part? These are just as tasty fresh off the stove as they are tucked into a lunchbox the next day. Stay tuned for pro tips, serving ideas, and more!

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are wonderfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to make them your own! Here are a few ideas to customize them:

• Cheese Swap: If white cheddar isn’t your favorite, try sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
• Greens Galore: Swap spinach for kale, arugula, or Swiss chard—just be sure to finely chop or wilt them first.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for extra heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs.

What to Serve With Your Chicken Burgers

These juicy, cheesy burgers pair beautifully with so many sides! Here are a few of our favorites:

• Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The perfect balance of sweet and savory.
• Simple Side Salad: A light, refreshing mix of greens with a lemony vinaigrette.
• Grilled Corn on the Cob: A summery classic that adds a nice crunch.
• Garlic Parmesan Roasted Potatoes: Because who can resist crispy, cheesy potatoes?

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! These burgers store beautifully for quick meals later in the week.

• Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, or pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through (about 10 minutes). Avoid microwaving to keep them juicy!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and keeps the burgers light and flavorful.

How do I keep the burgers from falling apart?

Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet—squeeze excess moisture from the spinach, and don’t skip the breadcrumbs or egg. Chilling the patties before cooking also helps them hold their shape.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the patties up to a day in advance and store them covered in the fridge until ready to cook.

Are these burgers kid-friendly?

Definitely! The mild flavors of white cheddar and spinach make these a great way to sneak in some greens. For picky eaters, try serving them without the bun or with a fun dipping sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about biting into a juicy, cheesy chicken burger—especially when it’s packed with wholesome ingredients like spinach and white cheddar. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, these burgers are sure to become a fast favorite. Don’t forget to snap a photo before you dig in—we’d love to see your delicious creations! Happy cooking, friends.

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