White cheddar spinach chicken burgers are a simple, flavor-forward option for anyone looking to mix up their usual burger routine. The combination of lean ground chicken, sharp white cheddar, and fresh spinach creates a balanced patty that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. They’re a great alternative to beef burgers lighter, but still full of flavor.
What I liked most was the texture. The spinach keeps the patties moist, the cheddar melts into little pockets of richness, and the chicken stays tender without feeling heavy. They also held together well during cooking, which isn’t always a given with chicken burgers. Whether grilled or pan-seared, they cook evenly and come out with a nice golden crust.
Key Ingredients
When it comes to making White cheddar spinach chicken burgers that are flavorful, juicy, and cohesive, the ingredients you choose play a pivotal role. Ground chicken can be a little lean, so the right mix-ins are key to boosting both moisture and taste.
Core Ingredients
Let’s start with the must-haves. These form the base of your burger and ensure every bite hits the mark:
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Ground chicken: Lean, protein-rich, and takes on flavor beautifully. Choose thigh meat or a mix of thigh and breast for juicier patties.
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White cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, slightly sharp contrast that melts beautifully into the patty. It also helps bind the burger.
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Fresh spinach: Finely chopped spinach not only boosts the moisture content but also sneaks in some greens without overpowering the flavor.
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Egg: Acts as a binder, keeping everything together.
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Panko breadcrumbs: Adds structure and a bit of crunch.
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Seasonings: Garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper keep the flavors clean and savory.
These ingredients work in harmony to deliver a well-balanced burger that doesn’t dry out or fall apart.
Optional Additions
Want to add a little twist or amp up the flavor? These additions can take your burgers from good to gourmet:
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Chopped scallions for mild onion flavor
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Crumbled feta if you want a Mediterranean flair
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Dijon mustard for a tangy undertone
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Chili flakes or smoked paprika for a touch of heat
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Chopped roasted red peppers for added sweetness and color
How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Making these White cheddar spinach chicken burgers is easy but like most recipes with ground meat, the secret is in the technique. Let’s walk through it step by step.
Step 1: Prep the Ingredients
Start by finely chopping the spinach. If it’s too chunky, it won’t mix well. Grate the white cheddar yourself bagged shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that affect meltability. Crack an egg and set it aside, and have your breadcrumbs and seasonings measured out and ready.
Step 2: Mix with Care
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded cheese, egg, breadcrumbs, and all the seasonings. Use your hands to mix, but don’t overwork it overmixing leads to tough burgers. Mix just until everything is evenly combined.
Step 3: Shape and Chill
Form the mixture into even patties using slightly oiled hands or a burger press. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and refrigerate for 20–30 minutes. This helps the burgers hold their shape and cook more evenly.
Step 4: Cook to Perfection
Heat a skillet, grill, or air fryer to medium-high. Cook the burgers for 5–6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid flipping more than once let each side brown nicely before turning.
Variations of White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
One of the best things about White cheddar spinach chicken burgers is how easy they are to customize. Whether you’re trying to cater to picky eaters or looking to experiment with bold flavors, the core recipe is super flexible.
Spicy Chipotle Cheddar Twist
If you’re craving heat, add some finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the mix and swap white cheddar for pepper jack. The smoky spice complements the spinach beautifully, and the gooey cheese ties it all together.
Mediterranean-Inspired Version
Give your chicken burgers a Greek flair by mixing in crumbled feta, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a bit of oregano. Serve with tzatziki sauce and pita or a warm flatbread for a completely different take.
Low-Carb and Keto Friendly
For a low-carb variation, skip the breadcrumbs and use almond flour instead. You can also serve the burgers lettuce-wrapped or over a bed of greens with a drizzle of lemon tahini dressing. This version is equally satisfying and works well for meal prep.
Kid-Friendly Mini Burgers
Shape smaller patties and use mild cheddar instead of sharp white cheddar. You can even skip the spinach for picky eaters, or puree it finely into the mix for hidden nutrients.
Breakfast Chicken Burger
Add a hint of maple syrup, swap cheddar for a mild gouda, and top with a fried egg. It’s a fun twist that makes these burgers perfect for a weekend brunch.
For more delicious recipes, check out our spicy chicken burger for another mouthwatering variation.
Common Mistakes & Fixes
No matter how straightforward the recipe may seem, White cheddar spinach chicken burgers can still throw you a curveball. I’ve made my share of burger mistakes over the years here are the most common ones and how to fix them.
Too Wet or Falling Apart
The most common issue? Patties that are too soft to flip. This often happens when the spinach hasn’t been dried thoroughly or there’s too much cheese. Always squeeze moisture from the spinach, and if the mix still feels loose, add a tablespoon more breadcrumbs.
Dry or Rubbery Texture
Ground chicken is lean, so it’s easy to overcook. If your burgers come out dry, it’s likely from overcooking or using too much breadcrumb. Use a meat thermometer to pull them at 165°F and never guess. Also, don’t overmix the meat just combine until the ingredients hold together.
Uneven Cooking
Thick, uneven patties tend to cook unevenly. If the outside looks golden but the inside’s still raw, shape the burgers thinner and make a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly without puffing up in the middle.
Bland Flavor
Underseasoning is a surprisingly common mistake. Even if you’re trying to keep things healthy, don’t skip the salt and pepper. You can also amp up the flavor with extras like garlic powder, onion powder, and a touch of Dijon mustard.
FAQs
Every great recipe comes with a few common questions, especially when you’re working with ingredients like ground chicken and spinach. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about White cheddar spinach chicken burgers.
What cheese goes best with chicken burgers?
White cheddar is a top pick because of its bold, sharp flavor and creamy melt. It balances the lean profile of chicken and gives the burger a richer bite. If you’re not a fan of cheddar, mozzarella, gouda, or provolone are great milder alternatives that still melt beautifully.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes, absolutely. Simply swap the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. Both options help bind the patties without compromising flavor or texture. Just make sure any sauces or seasoning blends you use are certified gluten-free.
How do you make a chicken patty for a burger?
It’s easier than you might think. Mix ground chicken with your flavorings (like spinach and white cheddar), add a binder (usually egg and breadcrumbs), shape into patties, and chill before cooking. That brief chill time helps everything hold together while cooking.
What should I put in ground chicken burgers?
Start with the basics: seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Then, mix in moisture boosters like spinach, shredded cheese, or even grated zucchini. Don’t forget a binder egg and breadcrumbs do the trick.
How long do you cook fully cooked chicken burgers?
If you’re reheating pre-cooked burgers, heat them for 3–4 minutes per side on a skillet or about 10 minutes in a 375°F oven. Always make sure they’re warmed through but not overcooked, or they’ll dry out.
Print
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers are a flavorful and nutritious twist on the classic burger. Combining lean ground chicken with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese, these burgers offer a moist and savory patty that’s both satisfying and healthier than traditional beef options. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, they’re easy to prepare and sure to please a crowd.
Ingredients
For the Patties
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
½ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
¼ cup breadcrumbs
¼ cup finely chopped onion
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
For Serving
4 burger buns
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, extra cheese
Instructions
Prepare the Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to promote even cooking.
Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the patties are golden brown on the outside.
Assemble the Burgers
Lightly toast the burger buns if desired. Place each cooked patty on a bun and add your preferred toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Spinach Preparation: Ensure the spinach is finely chopped to distribute evenly throughout the patties. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.
Cheese Alternatives: Feel free to substitute white cheddar with other cheeses like mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns, or serve the patties wrapped in lettuce leaves.
Cooking Method: These burgers can also be grilled over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side.
Storage: Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Pan-Fried or Grilled
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (without bun and additional toppings)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 560
- Fat: 9
- Saturated Fat: 2
- Unsaturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 21
- Cholesterol: 70
Keywords: chicken burgers, spinach, white cheddar, healthy dinner, easy recipe
