Description
These Spinach Chicken Burgers are a healthy, flavorful twist on the classic chicken burger. Packed with nutritious spinach and Parmesan cheese, these juicy patties are perfectly seasoned and pan-fried to a golden finish. Serve them on toasted buns with your favorite toppings for a delicious, wholesome meal that’s ready in about an hour.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken
- 10 oz frozen spinach, thawed and squeezed dry
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup, cheese slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach: Squeeze as much moisture as possible from the thawed spinach using a clean kitchen towel or cheesecloth to prevent soggy burgers.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, well-drained spinach, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and beaten egg.
- Add Flavor: Stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix Gently: Gently combine all ingredients until just mixed. Avoid overmixing to keep the burgers tender.
- Chill: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 30 minutes to help the flavors meld and the mixture firm up.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
- Make Indentation: Press a small indentation with your thumb in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up during cooking.
- Heat Oil: Warm the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
- Cook Burgers: Place patties carefully in the hot skillet. Cook each side for 5 to 7 minutes until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring they are fully cooked.
- Drain: Remove the burgers and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil.
- Assemble Burgers: Prepare the buns and spread your choice of condiments such as mayonnaise, mustard, or ketchup.
- Add Toppings: Place the cooked burger patty on the bottom bun and add desired toppings like lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, or cheese slices.
- Serve: Top with the remaining bun half and serve immediately while warm and juicy.
Notes
- Make sure to squeeze out all excess water from the spinach to avoid soggy burgers.
- Use fresh breadcrumbs if possible for better texture; panko adds extra crunch.
- The thumb indentation prevents the patties from bulging during cooking.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- You can customize toppings and condiments according to your taste.
- Leftover cooked patties can be refrigerated for 2 days or frozen for up to 1 month.
