If you crave a juicy, flavor-packed meal that’s quick to whip up and incredibly satisfying, this Smash Chicken Burger Recipe is about to become your new go-to. With perfectly seasoned, smashed chicken patties oozing melted cheddar, plus crispy bacon and a hint of spicy sriracha mayo, every bite delivers a mouthwatering punch at home. The combination of tender ground chicken mixed with vibrant veggies and bold spices creates a sandwich that’s bursting with texture and taste, making it a standout when you want a burger that’s anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the right ingredients for this Smash Chicken Burger Recipe is easier than you might think. Each component plays a crucial role, from giving the patties their kick to adding layers of crunch, creaminess, and a touch of heat.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean base that keeps your burger juicy without feeling heavy.
- 1 egg: Acts as a binder to keep everything together in your patties.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Adds just enough texture to give the chicken mixture body and soak up moisture.
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, finely diced: Brings sweetness and a bright pop of color to the mix.
- 2 tablespoons green onion, diced: Offers a fresh, subtle bite that complements the spices.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Injects a smoky warmth that’s absolutely irresistible.
- 2 teaspoons cajun seasoning: A bold spice blend that wakes up your taste buds.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the flavors effortlessly.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A gentle heat that balances the seasoning.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced: Adds that essential umami punch.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice): For cooking the patties to golden perfection.
- 4 slices cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness on top of the chicken.
- 2 strips bacon, cooked and cut in half: Adds irresistible crunch and smoky flavor.
- 2 brioche buns, toasted: Soft, slightly sweet bun that holds it all together best.
- Mayonnaise and Sriracha: For creamy, spicy spread that ties every bite together.
- Red onion, sliced: Gives a crisp, sharp contrast to the savory patties and bacon.
How to Make Smash Chicken Burger Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture
Start by mixing the ground chicken with egg, breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, green onion, smoked paprika, cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic. This flavorful blend gives the patties a punch of taste and keeps them tender and moist. Take your time to mix thoroughly to ensure every bite is bursting with the right balance of ingredients.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and roll each into a ball. This not only ensures even cooking but sets you up perfectly for the signature “smash” that makes these patties delightfully thin and crispy on the edges.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat your avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken balls in the hot pan and smash them flat with a spatula. Cooking the patties this way creates incredible texture with crispy edges and juicy centers. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes per side, flipping carefully to maintain their shape.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Once flipped, lay a slice of cheddar over each patty and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt evenly while finishing the chicken’s cook time — about 3 to 4 minutes. Melty cheese is the cozy finishing touch that turns this burger into a full-on comfort food experience.
Step 5: Toast and Prepare Buns
While the patties cook, toast your brioche buns until golden and slightly crispy. Spread mayonnaise mixed with a dash of sriracha on each bun half for a creamy, spicy layer that complements the chicken perfectly.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Stack two cheesy chicken patties on the bottom bun, then add sliced red onions and crispy bacon. Top with the other bun half, press gently, and get ready to enjoy the incredible symphony of flavors you just created. Repeat this process for the second burger and serve immediately.
How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger Recipe
Garnishes
A few simple garnishes can elevate your Smash Chicken Burger Recipe even further. Fresh slices of red onion add crunch and brightness, while a drizzle of extra sriracha mayo can boost the spice factor to your liking. Feel free to add a handful of crisp lettuce or pickles for an extra textural contrast!
Side Dishes
This burger pairs wonderfully with classic sides like golden fries or a fresh side salad. For a lighter option, consider crunchy coleslaw or a vibrant cucumber salad. If you want to keep things indulgent, sweet potato fries or onion rings will complement the smoky, spicy flavors brilliantly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving your Smash Chicken Burger Recipe with a fun twist by creating mini sliders for a party setting or stacking the patties with colorful roasted veggies for an impressive presentation. You can also offer an array of toppings and sauces on the side for guests to customize their burgers just the way they like.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover burgers, wrap them tightly in foil or place in an airtight container. Stored in the fridge, they’ll stay good for up to 2 days. Keeping ingredients like fresh onions or mayo separate will help maintain the perfect texture when reheating.
Freezing
For longer storage, freeze the cooked patties individually on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer-safe container or bag. This prevents them from sticking together, making it easier to grab a quick protein-packed option whenever you want. Frozen patties will keep well for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheat your Smash Chicken Burger patties in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their texture, or use a microwave for convenience if you’re in a rush. Re-toast the buns briefly to refresh that crunch and then reassemble your burger for a delicious meal that tastes almost as good as fresh.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can finely chop chicken breast or pulse it a few times in a food processor to get a similar texture. Just be mindful that ground chicken tends to have a better fat content that keeps the patties juicy.
How spicy is this Smash Chicken Burger Recipe?
This recipe has a gentle kick thanks to the cajun seasoning and sriracha mayo, but the heat can be adjusted easily by adding more or less sriracha or selecting a milder seasoning mix.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed gluten-free crackers. Just make sure your bun choice is gluten-free as well.
What if I don’t have brioche buns?
No worries at all. You can use any soft sandwich bun on hand like potato rolls, hamburger buns, or even a sturdy sandwich bread. Toasting it well will help hold the burger together nicely.
Can I grill the patties instead of pan-frying?
You can, but keep in mind that smashing the patties in a pan is what creates those perfect crispy edges unique to this recipe. If grilling, try forming thinner patties and watch carefully to avoid drying them out.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly rewarding about a homemade Smash Chicken Burger Recipe that hits all the right notes—crispy edges, juicy chicken, melty cheese, and bold, spicy flavors wrapped in a soft bun. It’s a recipe that’s as fun to make as it is delicious to eat, perfect for any night of the week. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and prepare to wow yourself and anyone lucky enough to share this juicy masterpiece with you.
Print
Smash Chicken Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Smash Chicken Burger recipe features flavorful ground chicken patties seasoned with smoked paprika and Cajun seasoning, cooked to perfection in a skillet and topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and fresh red onions on toasted brioche buns. A perfect quick and tasty meal ready in just 25 minutes for two servings.
Ingredients
Chicken Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice), more if needed
Toppings and Assembly
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 strips bacon, cooked and cut in half (making 4 pieces)
- 2 brioche buns, toasted
- Mayonnaise, as needed
- Sriracha, as needed
- Red onion, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, finely diced red bell pepper, diced green onion, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and finely chopped garlic. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Form the Patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball to ensure even cooking later.
- Cook the Patties: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken patty balls to the skillet. Using a spatula, smash each ball flat to form thin patties. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip carefully.
- Add Cheese: Place a slice of cheddar cheese over each patty and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt as the patties cook for another 3-4 minutes, making sure the chicken is cooked through.
- Toast and Prepare Buns: While the patties finish cooking, toast the brioche buns until lightly browned if desired. Drizzle mayonnaise and sriracha on each bun half and spread evenly with a butter knife for added flavor.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place two cheesy chicken patties onto the bottom half of each bun. Top with sliced red onions and two pieces of crispy bacon. Finish with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Smash Chicken Burger!
Notes
- Ensure patties are smashed thin for proper cooking and crisp edges.
- Adjust seasoning to taste, especially salt and Cajun seasoning.
- You can substitute brioche buns with your favorite burger buns.
- For a spicier burger, increase the amount of sriracha or add jalapeños.
- Make sure chicken is cooked fully to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
