White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers – Healthy & Juicy
If you’re looking for a delicious and nutritious burger alternative, this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger is the perfect choice! Juicy, packed with flavor, and easy to make, these healthy chicken burgers are a great way to enjoy a lean protein-packed meal. Whether you’re searching for a Mediterranean chicken burger recipe, a chicken spinach sandwich, or simply recipes to make with ground chicken, this recipe has you covered.
These burgers are not only juicy and satisfying, but they also offer a nutritious twist on traditional beef burgers. With fresh spinach, sharp white cheddar, and aromatic spices, they are ideal for a clean eating meal. Plus, they can be grilled, pan-fried, or baked, making them perfect for any season!
Let’s dive into this cheddar spinach chicken burger recipe that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Healthy and packed with protein – Lean ground chicken combined with fresh spinach.
- Juicy and flavorful – White cheddar adds a rich, sharp bite.
- Versatile – Serve as a chicken spinach sandwich, lettuce wrap, or on a plate with sides.
- Quick and easy to make – Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Customizable – Swap cheddar for feta to make a chicken feta burger recipe.
Ingredients for White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
- 1 cup (30g) fresh spinach, finely chopped
- ½ cup (60g) shredded white cheddar cheese
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving:
- Whole wheat burger buns or lettuce wraps
- Sliced tomatoes
- Sliced red onions
- Avocado slices
- Tzatziki or garlic aioli (optional)
Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Skillet or grill pan
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Burger Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, garlic, onion powder, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
- Mix everything well using your hands or a spatula until fully combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Burgers
Pan-Frying Method:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Cook each patty for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Grilling Method:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes per side, flipping once.
Baking Method:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Assemble the Burgers
- Toast the burger buns for extra texture.
- Place the cooked chicken patty on the bun, then layer with sliced tomatoes, red onions, avocado, and a dollop of tzatziki or aioli.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for the Best Chicken Burgers
- Don’t overmix the meat – This keeps the burgers juicy and tender.
- Use fresh spinach – Frozen spinach can add too much moisture.
- Let the patties rest before cooking – Chilling for 10 minutes helps them hold their shape.
- Want extra moisture? Add 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or olive oil to the mixture.
- Prefer turkey? This recipe works great as a what to make with turkey burger alternative!
Variations & Substitutions
Mediterranean Chicken Burger Recipe:
- Swap cheddar for crumbled feta cheese.
- Add ½ tsp cumin and 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley.
- Serve with tzatziki sauce and cucumbers.
Chicken Feta Burger Recipe:
- Use feta cheese instead of cheddar for a tangy kick.
- Add chopped sundried tomatoes for extra Mediterranean flavor.
Low-Carb Option:
- Serve as lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Pair with roasted vegetables or a side salad.
Spicy Version:
- Add ¼ tsp cayenne pepper for a kick.
- Spread spicy mayo or sriracha aioli on the bun.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the patties – Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness.
- Skipping the seasoning – Ground chicken needs bold flavors, so don’t be afraid to season well.
- Not using a binder – While this recipe doesn’t need breadcrumbs, adding 1 tbsp panko can help with texture if needed.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
- Refrigeration: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties with parchment paper between them for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
What to Serve With White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
- Sweet potato fries – A delicious and healthier side.
- Quinoa salad – Adds extra protein and nutrients.
- Grilled vegetables – Perfect for a clean eating meal.
FAQs
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What’s the best way to keep chicken burgers from drying out?
Use fresh spinach, don’t overcook, and add Greek yogurt or olive oil for moisture.
Can I make these burgers without cheese?
Absolutely! The spinach and seasoning still provide plenty of flavor.
Conclusion
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are the perfect combination of healthy, juicy, and flavorful. Whether you’re craving a Mediterranean chicken burger recipe, a chicken spinach sandwich, or simply need more recipes to make with ground chicken, this dish is a fantastic addition to your meal rotation.
Try this recipe today and let us know how it turned out! Don’t forget to share your healthy chicken burgers clean eating ideas and tag us when you make them. Happy cooking!
PrintWhite Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers – Healthy & Juicy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Pan-Fry, Grill, Bake
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Description
These juicy and flavorful White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a healthy alternative to traditional beef burgers. Packed with fresh spinach, sharp white cheddar, and aromatic spices, they’re perfect for a quick meal. Serve them in a bun, as a lettuce wrap, or with your favorite sides!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
✅ 1 lb (450g) ground chicken
✅ 1 cup (30g) fresh spinach, finely chopped
✅ ½ cup (60g) shredded white cheddar cheese
✅ 1 clove garlic, minced
✅ ½ tsp onion powder
✅ ½ tsp dried oregano
✅ ½ tsp smoked paprika
✅ ½ tsp salt
✅ ¼ tsp black pepper
✅ 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving:
✅ Whole wheat burger buns or lettuce wraps
✅ Sliced tomatoes
✅ Sliced red onions
✅ Avocado slices
✅ Tzatziki or garlic aioli (optional)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Chicken Burger Mixture:
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, spinach, cheddar, garlic, and seasonings.
- Mix well and shape into 4 equal-sized patties.
2️⃣ Cook the Chicken Burgers:
- Pan-Frying: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook each patty for 5-6 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Grilling: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side.
- Baking: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Place patties on a lined baking sheet and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
3️⃣ Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the burger buns if desired.
- Add a cooked patty, followed by tomato slices, onions, avocado, and tzatziki or aioli.
- Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- For extra juiciness, add 1 tbsp Greek yogurt or olive oil to the patty mixture.
- Swap white cheddar for feta cheese for a Mediterranean twist.
- These burgers can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer.