Meet your next dinner obsession: White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers. These burgers are incredibly juicy, bursting with fresh greens, and crowned with melty cheese that soaks right into the patty. Each bite brings together bright spinach, savory chicken, aromatic seasonings, and the creamy sharpness of white cheddar—all nestled in a soft bun. Whether you’re hosting a summer cookout or just craving a quick, satisfying meal, these burgers will brighten your table and your taste buds in equal measure.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredient list for White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers is delightfully short, but there isn’t a single filler in the bunch. Each one brings something essential, from the tender base to the irresistible pop of flavor and color. Here’s what you’ll need (and why each one matters):
- Ground Chicken: Lean and mild, this protein soaks up all the other flavors without drying out.
- Fresh Spinach: Finely chopped, it melts into the patty and lends a pop of green and subtle earthy notes.
- White Cheddar Cheese: Shredded for even melting, it adds rich, creamy tang and a gorgeous cheesy pull.
- Red Onion: A touch of sharp sweetness and crunch, finely diced so it softens as the patties cook.
- Garlic: Minced for maximum aroma and flavor throughout every bite.
- Dijon Mustard: Brings just enough zing and helps the mixture stick together.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds depth and a subtle hint of smokiness to make the burgers sing.
- Salt: Essential for brightening flavors all around; don’t skimp!
- Black Pepper: Just a pinch wakes everything up without overpowering the other ingredients.
- Olive Oil: Keeps the patties moist and golden when cooked on the stovetop.
- Burger Buns: The soft vehicle for all your burger goodness—toast them if you like a little crunch.
- Optional Toppings (lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise): Customize each burger to your cravings for a crisp, creamy, or juicy finish.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
Step 1: Mix Up the Burger Magic
Start by grabbing your biggest mixing bowl, because you want plenty of room to bring everything together without making a mess. Toss in the ground chicken, freshly chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, diced red onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. With clean hands, gently mix until everything looks evenly combined—no more, no less. Overmixing means tough burgers, so stop as soon as you see no big swirls of cheese or pockets of spinach.
Step 2: Shape and Chill the Patties
Divide your mixture into four equal portions. Wet your hands (this helps keep everything from sticking), then shape each portion into a patty that will fit your burger buns—about a half-inch thick is perfect. If you have time, pop the patties into the fridge for 10 minutes while you heat your pan. This quick chill helps them hold their shape and stay ultra juicy when they hit the heat.
Step 3: Pan Sear to Golden Perfection
Drizzle olive oil into a large skillet and set it over medium heat. When the oil shimmers, gently lay in your chicken patties. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5–6 minutes on each side. The goal: a deep golden crust on the outside and a perfectly juicy, thoroughly cooked burger (165°F internal temperature, if you’re being precise).
Step 4: Toast the Buns (Optional, but Unbeatable)
While the patties finish, split your burger buns and toast them, cut side down, in a dry pan or under the broiler for just a minute or two. This simple step keeps buns from getting soggy and adds a satisfying crunch at first bite.
Step 5: Build and Serve Your Masterpiece
Spoon a little mayo (or your burger sauce of choice) onto the bottom bun, nestle a patty on top, and layer on crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, or any other favorite toppings. Cap with the top bun, plate up, and dig in while they’re piping hot. White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are best enjoyed fresh, right off the stove.
How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
Garnishes
A bright, crisp leaf of lettuce and a slice of ripe tomato are classic, but these burgers also shine with a sprinkle of microgreens, thin slices of red onion, or even extra shredded white cheddar. For a little spice, try a dab of sriracha mayo or a spoonful of tangy pickles on top. The garnishes bring color, texture, and a spark of personality to every plate.
Side Dishes
Nothing goes better with White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers than a pile of golden baked fries, but there’s room to play. A simple side salad, sweet potato wedges, or even crunchy pickled veggies make an excellent pairing. If you’re feeding a crowd, set out an array of sides so everyone can customize their meal to their liking.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re looking to have some fun, stack the burgers slider-style on mini buns for party appetizers, or cut them in halves or quarters and serve on a platter for sharing. For a lighter twist, wrap your patty in crisp lettuce leaves instead of a bun, or serve over a bed of quinoa and roasted veggies for a knife-and-fork bowl. However you present them, White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers bring bold flavor to any gathering.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you wind up with extra patties, let them cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. They’ll keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the buns and toppings separately so every bite stays as fresh and satisfying as possible.
Freezing
To keep White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers on-hand for quick weeknight meals, freeze the cooked patties (without toppings or buns) in a single layer on a tray until solid, then transfer to a zip-top freezer bag. They’ll stay delicious for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge, or use the defrost function on your microwave for a speedier option.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the patties in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water to keep things moist. Alternatively, microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through. Freshly toasted buns and crisp toppings make leftovers feel brand new.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works perfectly in place of chicken in White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers. Just be sure to choose a lean (not extra-lean) blend so the patties stay juicy and tender.
Can I grill these burgers?
Yes, these burgers hold together beautifully on the grill. Just make sure to oil your grill grates well and use medium heat to avoid sticking. Flip carefully since the mixture is softer than beef patties.
Is it possible to make these burgers dairy-free?
To keep the spirit of White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers, try substituting your favorite dairy-free shredded cheddar. It will melt into the patties nicely and keep the flavors bold and creamy.
What toppings go best with these burgers?
Classic toppings like lettuce, tomato, and mayo are always a hit, but avocado slices, caramelized onions, or a zesty aioli can really make your White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers unforgettable. Play around to find your favorite combinations!
How can I keep the patties from falling apart?
If the mixture feels too loose, chill the formed patties for 10–15 minutes before cooking, or add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs to help bind everything. Gentle handling during shaping and flipping also prevents breakage.
Final Thoughts
I hope you’re as excited as I am to bring these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers to your kitchen! They’re fast, flavorful, and fun—a true weeknight win or a sure-fire crowd pleaser. Give them a try, and let their melt-in-your-mouth goodness win you (and your guests) over, one bite at a time.
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach 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: Non-Vegetarian
Description
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger, combining juicy ground chicken with flavorful spinach, tangy white cheddar, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup finely diced red onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, red onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the chicken patties and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Toast the burger buns if desired.
- Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a bun and adding your favorite toppings.
- Serve immediately.
Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overmix.
Notes
- You can substitute baby kale or arugula for spinach if desired.
- These burgers also grill well—just make sure to oil the grates and cook over medium heat.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 34g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
