If you’re looking for a burger that’s a bit different but totally satisfying, this White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is going to be your new go-to. I absolutely love how these patties stay juicy and flavorful, thanks to the combo of fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese melting right inside. They’re perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or when you want something lighter than beef but just as indulgent.
When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed at how easy it was to throw together, plus it packs in some greens without anyone complaining. You’ll find that the white cheddar adds a creamy, tangy punch that makes these chicken burgers stand out without overpowering the mild chicken flavor. Trust me, your family will go crazy for these burgers!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Juicy and Flavorful: The white cheddar cheese melts perfectly inside the spinach-studded chicken patties for amazing moistness and taste.
- Healthy Twist on a Classic: Incorporating fresh spinach adds nutrients and a pop of color without sacrificing deliciousness.
- Simple Ingredients, Big Impact: You don’t need fancy items—just pantry staples that come together quick and easy.
- Versatile Serving Options: Great fresh off the skillet or grilled, and easy to jazz up with your favorite burger toppings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients here not only complement each other but ensure your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers turn out packed with flavor and just the right texture. Here are a few tips on picking the best components for the job.
- Ground chicken: Opt for fresh, lean ground chicken for a good balance of moisture and protein.
- Fresh spinach: Make sure to finely chop it so it integrates well into the patties without big leafy bites.
- Shredded white cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that tangy, melty goodness that elevates the burgers.
- Breadcrumbs: These help bind everything together; you can use gluten-free to keep it friendly for any diet.
- Onion and garlic: Minced finely to infuse savory flavor without overpowering the chicken.
- Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce: These add depth and a subtle kick, boosting the complexity of flavors.
- Salt and black pepper: Seasoning is key—don’t be shy!
- Olive oil: For cooking the patties, it keeps them from sticking and adds a touch of richness.
- Burger buns and optional toppings: Choose your favorite soft buns, fresh lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese to dress these up just how you like.
Variations
I’m always tweaking this White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe depending on what I have on hand or the mood we’re in. You should feel free to make it your own, whether that’s swapping cheeses, adding spices, or trying different cooking methods.
- Swap the cheese: I once tried pepper jack instead of white cheddar for a little heat—it was a hit with my spice-loving friends.
- Grill them up: Especially in summer, grilling adds a smoky depth that’s unbeatable and makes for easier clean-up.
- Make it gluten-free: Using gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns means none of the family misses out.
- Add fresh herbs: Toss in some chopped basil or parsley for a fresh herbal twist.
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix Your Burger Magic
Grab a large bowl and combine your ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, diced onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. I like to mix this gently with my hands or a spoon — over-mixing can make the patties tough, so just combine until everything looks evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shape Your Patties with Love
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form each into a nice, thick patty. Make a small indentation in the center of each to help them cook evenly—this little trick is something I picked up from a chef friend and it really works to prevent puffing up.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they’re nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If you don’t have a meat thermometer, cut into one patty to make sure it’s opaque and juices run clear.
Step 4: Let Your Burgers Rest
Once cooked, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for about 3-5 minutes. This keeps the juices locked inside so each bite is super tender and flavorful.
Step 5: Assemble and Enjoy!
Pop the patties on your favorite buns and add any toppings you love—lettuce, juicy tomato slices, or even more cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in happily!
Pro Tips for Making White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Avoid Over-mixing: Mixing the burger ingredients just until combined keeps your patties tender, not dense.
- Check Doneness with a Thermometer: It’s the best way to ensure juicy, safe-to-eat chicken burgers every time.
- Use Fresh Cheese: Grating your own white cheddar melts better and blends nicely in the mix.
- Let Patties Rest Before Serving: Resting helps redistribute juices, making every bite juicy and flavorful.
How to Serve White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
I love keeping it simple with crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices—classic, refreshing, and they add a nice crunch. Sometimes, I add a little extra white cheddar on top while the patties are still warm so it melts perfectly. For a bit of zing, a smear of Dijon mustard or a dollop of mayo really brings the whole burger together.
Side Dishes
This recipe pairs beautifully with crispy sweet potato fries or a light cucumber salad for a fresh contrast. On weekends, I like pairing it with grilled corn on the cob or even a tangy coleslaw to make it a full-on feast.
Creative Ways to Present
For casual gatherings, I set up a burger bar with all the toppings and let everyone customize their own. For a fancier touch, I sometimes serve mini sliders on brioche buns, stacked with a slice of melted white cheddar and baby spinach leaves—a fun party appetizer that always disappears fast!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually pop leftover patties into an airtight container and keep them in the fridge for up to three days. They reheat wonderfully and are perfect for quick lunches or dinners. Just make sure they’re cooled fully before storing to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
If I want to meal prep, I freeze the uncooked patties individually on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They keep well for up to three months and thaw quickly in the fridge overnight.
Reheating
To reheat, I find gently warming the patties in a skillet with a splash of olive oil brings back that fresh-cooked texture better than the microwave. This way, they stay juicy and the cheese inside softens just right.
FAQs
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Can I make these White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can mix and form the patties ahead of time and store them covered in the fridge for up to a day before cooking. This makes busy nights so much easier.
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Can I substitute the spinach with other greens?
Yes, baby kale or finely chopped Swiss chard work well too. Just make sure to chop them finely and remove any tough stems to keep the patty texture smooth and tender.
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What if I don’t have a meat thermometer?
No worries! You can cut into a patty to check that the inside is fully cooked, no longer pink, and juices run clear. The texture should be firm but not dry.
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Can these burgers be grilled instead of pan-fried?
Definitely! Grilling adds a lovely smoky flavor and helps reduce any excess fat. Just be gentle when flipping so they don’t fall apart.
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How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Simply swap regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones and choose gluten-free buns. The rest of the ingredients naturally work well for a gluten-free diet.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give this White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe a try soon—it’s quickly become a family favorite at my house because it’s one of those rare recipes that’s both comforting and a little bit nutritious. Plus, it’s super versatile and forgiving, so even if you’re new to making chicken burgers, you’ll feel confident tackling it. Next time you want a change-up from your usual burger routine, I’m pretty sure you’ll be reaching for this recipe again and again.
Print
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings (4 burgers)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious and healthy twist on classic chicken burgers. Made with fresh spinach, sharp white cheddar cheese, and seasoned ground chicken, these patties deliver a juicy and flavorful bite. Cooked on the stovetop in a skillet for a perfect sear, they’re easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or casual weekend cookout. Serve on toasted buns with your favorite fresh toppings.
Ingredients
Burger Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Assembly
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are evenly combined without overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round burger patty about ¾ inch thick, making sure they hold together well for cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Once hot, place the patties in the skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on one side until nicely browned, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Rest the Patties: Remove the cooked patties from the skillet and transfer them to a plate. Let them rest for a few minutes to allow the juices to redistribute and keep the burgers moist.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each patty on a burger bun and add your choice of optional toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your flavorful white cheddar spinach chicken burgers.
Notes
- Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns to make this recipe gluten-free.
- These patties can also be grilled instead of pan-fried for a smokier flavor.
- Store leftover cooked patties in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (with bun)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 14 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
