There’s something about the sizzle of chicken hitting a hot pan that almost hypnotizes me. The smell of garlic and smoked paprika swirling in the air, mingling with the faint hint of cayenne, pulls me in every time. I usually get a little distracted by the golden edges forming on the patties, wondering if I should flip them now or wait just a few seconds more. The cheese melting on top, slowly oozy yet perfectly intact, always feels like a small reward for the patience. I don’t remember exactly when I started craving these burgers, but the ease of mixing just a handful of ingredients and the quick cook time make this a go-to comfort meal I reach for when I need something tasty with no fuss.
Why You’ll Love It:
- Juicy and flavorful without complicated seasoning — it’s simple, and that’s kind of the point.
- Quick prep and cook time that fits into busy weeknights without feeling rushed.
- Melty cheddar cheese adds that familiar cheeseburger charm without overpowering the chicken.
- The balance of spices offers a subtle kick, but nothing too intimidating for picky eaters.
- It’s flexible enough to dress up or keep casual, depending on your mood.
If you’re worried about making chicken burgers that don’t dry out, this recipe strikes a nice balance — just enough moisture and binding to hold everything together without turning into a meatball. I usually don’t recommend prepping the buns too early; toasting them right before assembling keeps everything crisp and fresh.
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Chicken Breast Burgers
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Juicy and flavorful chicken breast burgers made with simple ingredients, perfect for a delicious homemade meal.
Ingredients
1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, ground
1/4 cup finely chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup breadcrumbs
1 large egg
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 hamburger buns
4 leaves romaine lettuce
4 slices tomato
4 slices cheddar cheese
4 tablespoons mayonnaise
4 teaspoons mustard
Instructions
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper. Mix gently until just combined.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook the chicken patties for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the patties are golden brown.
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty and cover the skillet to melt the cheese.
Toast the hamburger buns lightly in a separate pan or toaster.
Spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun and 1 teaspoon of mustard on the top half.
Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom bun, followed by the chicken patty with melted cheese, then a slice of tomato.
Cover with the top bun and serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
Kitchen Notes: Cooking these patties in a skillet is the way to go. No fancy equipment needed, just a good pan that holds heat evenly. I like to serve mine with simple romaine and fresh tomato slices, but sometimes I swap cheddar for pepper jack if I feel like a little extra spice. You could also try mixing in some finely chopped herbs or a dash of hot sauce into the patty for a personal twist, though I haven’t tested all those variations thoroughly. Wrapping the burger in lettuce instead of a bun is a nice lighter option, too, if you’re craving something less bread-heavy.
FAQ:
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts? You can, but keep in mind thighs are fattier, which might change the texture a bit.
How do I prevent the burgers from falling apart? Don’t overmix the ingredients — just combine until everything is evenly distributed. Letting the patties chill briefly before cooking helps, too.
Can I make these ahead of time? You can prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them uncooked for a few hours. Cook just before serving.
When dinner time sneaks up, and you want something quick, satisfying, and homemade, these chicken breast burgers fit right in. Give them a try, save the recipe for later, and enjoy that cozy kitchen moment.