Description
These Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers combine spicy chipotle peppers with sharp cheddar cheese and tender ground chicken, creating a flavorful and juicy burger perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend cookout. The patties are pan-cooked to golden perfection and served on toasted buns with fresh lettuce, tomato, and your favorite sauce for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the can)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Additional mayonnaise or favorite sauce
Instructions
- Prepare the Patty Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, minced garlic, finely chopped red onion, breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, taking care not to overwork the meat to keep the patties tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a round, evenly sized patty about 3/4-inch thick for uniform cooking.
- Heat the Pan: Place a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking, which ensures a good sear on the patties.
- Cook the Chicken Patties: Place the patties in the hot pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on the first side without moving them, allowing a golden brown crust to form. Flip carefully and cook an additional 5 to 6 minutes on the other side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked.
- Toast Buns and Assemble: While the chicken cooks, optionally toast the burger buns until lightly browned. Once patties are done, assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a bun bottom, then topping with lettuce, tomato slices, and your choice of mayonnaise or sauce. Cover with the bun top and serve immediately.
Notes
- Adjust the spiciness by using more or fewer chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to suit your heat preference.
- These burgers can also be grilled outdoors on a barbecue for a smokier flavor.
- Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.
