If you’re craving a burger that perfectly balances smoky spice, sharp cheddar, and juicy chicken, then you have to try this Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe. It combines tender ground chicken with the kick of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, the creaminess of melted cheddar, and a vibrant mix of fresh herbs and spices. This burger isn’t just your average sandwich; it’s a flavor-packed experience that’s incredibly satisfying and easy enough for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout. Trust me, once you make these chipotle cheddar chicken burgers, they’ll become an instant favorite in your recipe rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh ingredients come together in this recipe to create layers of flavor and perfect texture. Each component is essential, whether it’s the sharpness of cheddar cheese, the smoky warmth of chipotle peppers, or the fresh brightness of cilantro, making this dish irresistible from the first bite.
- 1 pound ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps the burgers juicy and light.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds melty richness and a tangy bite.
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: Delivers smoky heat and deep flavor.
- 1 garlic clove minced: Gives a subtle aromatic kick.
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion: Provides sweetness and a little crunch.
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Brightens the flavor and offers fresh herbal notes.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Adds an earthy background warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Boosts that smoky profile without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a touch of gentle heat.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: For cooking the patties to golden perfection.
- 4 hamburger buns: To hold all the deliciousness together.
- Optional toppings (sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, red onion, chipotle mayo): Customize your burger experience with fresh and creamy extras.
How to Make Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by combining the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, chipotle peppers, garlic, red onion, cilantro, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Be gentle when mixing—overworking the meat can yield tough burgers, so just blend everything until evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture evenly into 4 portions. Shape each into a round, even patty, about the size of your hamburger buns. This ensures they cook uniformly and fit perfectly inside the bun.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Look for beautiful golden edges and a slightly crisp exterior that contrasts perfectly with the juicy inside.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the burgers cook, toast your hamburger buns in a separate pan or under a broiler. Toasting adds warmth and a slight crunch, elevating the texture of your final burger.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Layer each patty onto a toasted bun and add your favorite toppings—slices of creamy avocado, crunchy lettuce, juicy tomato, crisp red onion, and a generous spread of chipotle mayo all work beautifully. Serve immediately and dig into the smoky, cheesy, spicy goodness.
How to Serve Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
A perfectly prepared burger deserves fresh and flavorful garnishes. Sliced avocado adds creaminess, while crisp lettuce and tomato bring refreshing crunch. A dollop of chipotle mayo ties everything together with a zesty, smoky finish that complements the chipotle within the burger itself.
Side Dishes
Pair these chipotle cheddar chicken burgers with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries or a tangy coleslaw for balance. A simple corn salad or grilled veggies also elevate the meal, keeping it light and colorful without competing with the bold burger flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these burgers open-faced with a sprinkle of extra cheddar and fresh herbs on top. You can also transform them into sliders for parties or family gatherings, giving everyone a chance to customize their own mini masterpiece with a variety of toppings and sauces.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate to avoid sogginess, and refrigerate toppings individually for maximum freshness.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, then transferring them to a freezer bag once solid. Frozen patties stay good for up to 2 months. To cook, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat cooked burgers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to retain juiciness and re-crisp the exterior. Avoid microwaving as it can make the burger rubbery. Toast buns fresh to bring back that perfect bite.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe and provides a similar lean protein option with a slightly different flavor profile. Just be sure to check the seasoning and adjust if needed.
How spicy are these burgers?
These burgers offer a pleasant smoky heat from the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce without being overpowering. If you prefer more spice, you can add an extra teaspoon of adobo sauce to turn up the heat.
Are these burgers gluten-free?
The burger patties themselves are gluten-free, but to make the whole burger gluten-free, you’ll want to use gluten-free buns. Many stores carry excellent gluten-free bread options that won’t compromise on taste or texture.
Can I grill these burgers outdoors?
Yes! Grilling these chicken burgers outdoors over medium-high heat will add a wonderful smoky char. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Just handle them gently to avoid crumbling.
What can I do with leftover burger mix?
If you have leftover mixture before shaping patties, you can refrigerate it for up to 24 hours, or freeze for up to a month. You might also consider using it to make meatballs or skillet hash for a tasty variation.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to make this Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe because it really hits all the right notes—from the smokiness and spice to the melty cheddar cheese and fresh herbs. Whether you’re feeding family, impressing friends, or just craving something delicious and satisfying, these burgers deliver big on flavor without fuss. Give them a try, and I’m confident they’ll become one of your favorite go-to meals in no time!
Print
Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers offer a smoky, spicy twist on the classic chicken burger. Ground chicken is blended with sharp cheddar cheese, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, and fragrant spices to create juicy, flavorful patties. Cooked on the stovetop or grilled to perfection, these burgers are served with fresh toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, and chipotle mayo on toasted buns for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Buns and Toppings
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, red onion, chipotle mayo
Instructions
- Mix the Patty Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped chipotle peppers, minced garlic, chopped red onion, fresh cilantro, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined, being careful not to overmix to keep the patties tender.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty of even thickness to ensure uniform cooking.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Toast the Buns: If desired, toast the hamburger buns lightly in the skillet or under a broiler to add a slight crunch and warmth.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each cooked patty on a toasted bun and add your favorite toppings such as sliced avocado, fresh lettuce, tomato slices, red onion rings, and a spread of chipotle mayo for extra flavor.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the assembled burgers hot to enjoy the best combination of flavors and textures.
Notes
- For extra smoky heat, add an additional teaspoon of adobo sauce to the patty mixture.
- You can grill these burgers outdoors over medium-high heat for about 4–5 minutes per side for a traditional grilled flavor.
- Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken for a leaner option.
- Use gluten-free buns to make this recipe gluten-free.
