Get ready to elevate your burger game with a twist that combines wholesome greens, tender poultry, and a melting blanket of sharp white cheddar. These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers bring together the lean protein of ground chicken, the vibrant freshness of chopped spinach, and the creamy, tangy kick of sharp cheese in every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at a backyard barbecue or whipping up a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes: it’s beginner-friendly, it comes together in just 15 minutes of prep and 15 minutes of cooking, and it yields juicy patties that rest for a brief five minutes before you dig in. At around 350 calories per burger, you get a satisfying meal without the heavy guilt, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep for the week ahead.
What really makes these burgers shine is their versatility. You can swap in ground turkey if that’s what you have on hand, or experiment with smoked paprika for a smoky twist. Grill them outdoors for a charred, summertime vibe, or keep it simple and sear them in a skillet on the stove. The spinach not only adds a pop of color but also packs in a nutritious punch, while the shredded cheddar melts into gooey pockets of flavor. Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can riff on it—try different cheeses like gouda, mozzarella, or pepper jack, and top your creations with sliced avocado, red onion, or a smear of your favorite condiment. These burgers aren’t just a meal; they’re an invitation to get creative in the kitchen.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Every great recipe starts with quality ingredients that play unique roles in texture, flavor, and nutrition. In this recipe, each component has been selected to build layers of taste—from the juicy chicken patty base to the bright green spinach, and finally the sharp bite of white cheddar. Here’s what you’ll need to assemble your tasty burgers:
- Ground Chicken
This lean protein forms the foundation of the patties, offering a tender and juicy mouthfeel. Its mild flavor allows the spinach and cheese to shine without being overpowered.
- Fresh Spinach
Chopped and folded into the mixture, spinach delivers vibrant color, a subtle earthy note, and a dose of vitamins. It keeps the patties moist and adds a healthy twist.
- Sharp White Cheddar Cheese
As this cheese melts, it creates pockets of creamy richness and sharp tang that contrast beautifully with the chicken. It’s the cheesy core that makes each bite indulgent.
- Breadcrumbs
Acting as a binder, breadcrumbs help absorb moisture and keep the patties from falling apart during cooking. They also contribute a slight texture for a satisfying bite.
- Garlic
Minced garlic infuses the patties with aromatic depth and savory warmth. It awakens the senses and balances the richness of the cheese.
- Onion Powder
This pantry staple adds subtle sweetness and a hint of sharpness, deepening the overall flavor without overpowering the garlic.
- Salt
Essential for seasoning, salt enhances the natural flavors of the chicken and spinach, ensuring every bite is well-rounded.
- Black Pepper
A touch of freshly ground black pepper provides a mild kick and aromatic spice that ties the flavors together.
- Olive Oil
Used for cooking, olive oil prevents sticking, promotes even browning, and introduces a subtle fruity note.
- Burger Buns
Your vessel for the patty, buns should be lightly toasted to add a slight crunch and prevent sogginess when topped with juicy ingredients.
- Optional Toppings
Lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, red onion, mayonnaise, or any favorite condiment let you personalize each burger. These add texture, freshness, and extra layers of flavor.
HOW TO MAKE WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Bringing these burgers to life is straightforward, and once you get the hang of forming and cooking the patties, you’ll be serving up deliciousness in no time. Follow these detailed steps for perfectly cooked, golden-brown chicken burgers bursting with cheesy goodness and vibrant greens:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use a gentle folding motion with your hands or a spatula to ensure even distribution of cheese and greens without overworking the meat, which can make the patties tough.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and use light pressure to shape each portion into a patty roughly 1/2-inch thick. Press gently around the edges to create a uniform shape that cooks evenly.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke. Carefully place the chicken patties into the hot oil, leaving space between each to prevent steaming.
4. Cook the patties for about 5–7 minutes on each side, or until they develop a golden-brown crust and are cooked through. Use a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
5. While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns in the oven or on a griddle until they’re golden and slightly crisp around the edges. This step adds a delightful contrast to the juicy patties.
6. Once the patties are cooked, assemble the burgers by placing each hot patty on a toasted bun. Layer on your preferred toppings, such as lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, and red onion, to build texture and freshness.
7. Serve the burgers with a generous smear of mayonnaise or your favorite condiment on the top bun for creamy richness, and enjoy immediately while everything is warm and melty.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Pairing your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers with the right accompaniments can turn a simple meal into a memorable feast. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or enjoying a solo dinner, these ideas will help you round out the plate with flavors and textures that complement the savory patties and vibrant greens.
- Serve alongside Crispy Sweet Potato Fries
Cut sweet potatoes into fries, toss with olive oil, salt, and a pinch of paprika, then bake until golden brown. The natural sweetness and crisp exterior balance the savory burger flavors.
- Offer a side of Zesty Coleslaw
Shred cabbage and carrots, then toss with a light dressing of Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and a dash of honey. This crunchy, tangy slaw adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the cheddar.
- Pair with an Avocado & Corn Salad
Combine diced avocado, grilled corn kernels, cherry tomatoes, and cilantro. Drizzle with lime juice and olive oil for a bright, creamy salad that echoes the burger’s green notes.
- Complement with a pitcher of Herb-Infused Iced Tea
Brew black or green tea with sprigs of fresh mint and lemon slices. Chill and serve over ice for a refreshing beverage that cleanses the palate between bites.
HOW TO STORE WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Storing these chicken burgers properly ensures you can enjoy their juicy, cheesy goodness days after cooking. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or saving leftovers for a quick lunch, follow these guidelines to maintain flavor, texture, and safety.
- Refrigerate in an Airtight Container
Once the burgers have cooled to room temperature, place them in a single layer inside a sealed container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to preserve moisture.
- Freeze for Long-Term Storage
Wrap each cooked patty individually in plastic wrap or foil, then store them together in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Store Buns Separately**
Keep your toasted buns in a separate airtight bag or container to prevent them from becoming soggy. Toast them again briefly before assembly to restore crispness.
- Pre-Portion Toppings**
Chop and store optional toppings such as lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado slices in small containers. This makes assembly quicker and keeps each ingredient at its peak freshness.
CONCLUSION
This article has walked you through every delicious detail of crafting White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers that deliver a savory blend of tender chicken, sharp white cheddar, and vibrant spinach. From grabbing high-quality ground chicken and fresh greens to layering on your favorite toppings, these burgers are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned cook looking for an easy, flavorful dinner, this recipe covers preparation time (just 15 minutes), cooking time (another 15 minutes), plus a short 5-minute rest—so you can have a wholesome, satisfying meal on the table in under 45 minutes. At approximately 350 calories per serving, it’s a balanced option for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, and it’s versatile enough to accommodate substitutions like ground turkey, gluten-free breadcrumbs, or different cheese varieties.
Feel free to print this article and save it for later so you can revisit the ingredient list, step-by-step instructions, and handy serving and storage tips whenever you need a go-to burger recipe. You’ll also find a FAQ below to address common questions and troubleshooting—whether you want to know how to avoid dry patties, what to do if you don’t have spinach, or how to achieve that perfect cheese melt. If you give these burgers a try, leave a comment with your tweaks, questions, or feedback. I’d love to hear how they turned out for you and help with any kitchen adventures you embark on next!
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Description
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers offer a savory blend of tender chicken, sharp cheddar, and fresh spinach, delivering a mouthwatering experience with every bite.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix well until all the ingredients are thoroughly combined.
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Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and shape each part into a patty roughly 1/2-inch thick.
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Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken patties to the skillet.
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Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
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While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the burger buns in the oven or on a griddle.
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Once the patties are cooked, assemble the burgers by placing a patty on each bun. Add your preferred toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, and red onion.
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Serve the burgers with mayonnaise or any favorite condiment of your choice.
Note
- Ground turkey can be used as an alternative to ground chicken.
- For extra flavor, try adding 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the burger mixture.
- These burgers can also be grilled on an outdoor barbecue for a smoky taste.
- Gluten-free breadcrumbs can be substituted to make this recipe suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.
- Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or mozzarella for a fun twist.
