If you are craving a burger with bold flavors and a delightful kick, the Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe will become your new favorite. Juicy ground chicken blended with sharp cheddar cheese and smoky chipotle peppers creates a perfectly balanced patty that is rich, spicy, and satisfying all at once. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking on the stovetop, these burgers are easy to make and guaranteed to impress everyone at the table. Get ready to elevate your burger game with a smoky, cheesy twist that’s anything but ordinary.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe keeps it simple but impactful with ingredients that each add their own magic. The combination of smoky chipotle, sharp cheddar, and fresh green onions brings layers of flavor, while the egg and breadcrumbs ensure the patties hold together beautifully. Every ingredient plays a key role in making these burgers irresistible.
- 1 pound ground chicken: Lean and tender, it forms the juicy base for the patties.
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese: Adds a creamy, tangy richness that melts into the meat.
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped: Brings smoky heat and depth of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce: Infuses the patties with that unmistakable smoky spiciness.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture without drying it out.
- 1 egg: Acts as a natural binder for perfect patty texture.
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped: Provides a fresh, mild onion bite to brighten the flavor.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Enhances the smoky notes alongside chipotle.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds subtle heat and complexity.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking): Ensures a golden, delicious crust on the patties.
- 4 burger buns: The perfect vessel to hold all the goodness.
- Lettuce, tomato slices, red onion: Classic fresh toppings for crunch and brightness.
- Mayo or chipotle aioli for serving: A creamy, spicy finishing touch.
How to Make Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients in a large bowl. Gently mix ground chicken, shredded cheddar, chopped chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined—you want everything evenly distributed without overworking the meat to keep the patties juicy and tender.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. With clean hands, shape each portion into a round, even patty about 3/4-inch thick. Consistent size ensures they cook evenly, making every burger perfection on the plate.
Step 3: Cook to Perfection
Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for approximately 5 to 6 minutes per side. You’ll know they’re ready when they develop a golden crust and an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) is reached. No grill? No problem! These patties also sear beautifully on the stovetop or can be air-fried for a fuss-free finish.
Step 4: Toast the Buns and Assemble
While the patties cook, toast your burger buns lightly to add crunch and prevent sogginess. Once cooked, layer each bun with a lettuce leaf, a juicy chipotle cheddar chicken patty, tomato slices, red onion rings, and a generous spread of mayo or your favorite chipotle aioli. Assemble quickly and serve immediately for that crave-worthy taste and texture combo.
How to Serve Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding vibrant garnishes takes these burgers to the next level. Crisp lettuce gives a fresh crunch, ripe tomato slices introduce juiciness, and red onion rings offer a pleasantly sharp bite. The chipotle aioli or mayo adds smoothness and a spicy finish that ties all the elements together perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these burgers with classic fries, sweet potato wedges, or a zesty coleslaw for a balanced meal. For a lighter option, a crisp green salad with a citrus vinaigrette complements the smoky richness without overwhelming the palate.
Creative Ways to Present
Turn your chipotle cheddar chicken burgers into sliders for gatherings or chop the cooked patties to top off a hearty salad bowl. You can also serve them open-faced with a fried egg on top for brunch. The versatility of this recipe invites your creativity to shine!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover chipotle cheddar chicken patties store well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate to prevent sogginess, then reassemble right before serving for a freshly made feel.
Freezing
If you want to prep ahead, shape the patties and freeze them uncooked in a single layer on parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen adding a few extra minutes to the cook time. Cooked patties can also be frozen and reheated later.
Reheating
Rewarm patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F until thoroughly heated. This keeps them moist and avoids drying out. Toast buns fresh just before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well if you want a leaner option. Just keep the same seasoning and cooking times, though turkey patties can sometimes dry out faster, so watch them closely.
How spicy are these burgers?
The chipotle peppers add a smoky heat that’s noticeable but not overwhelming. You can adjust the amount of chipotle pepper or sauce to make it milder or turn up the heat depending on your preference.
Can I make these burgers ahead for a party?
Yes, you can prepare and shape patties a day in advance and keep them refrigerated. Just cook them fresh when you’re ready to serve for the best flavor and texture.
What other toppings go well with this recipe?
Avocado slices, pepper jack cheese, pickled jalapeños, or sautéed mushrooms all complement the smoky, cheesy flavors perfectly. Feel free to customize based on what you love!
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Since breadcrumbs are included, it’s not gluten-free by default. However, you can swap the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones to make this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about sinking your teeth into a juicy, smoky burger packed with melted cheddar and chipotle heat. The Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe effortlessly brings bold flavor and comforting textures together in a way that’s surprisingly simple but so delicious. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, these burgers are a winner every time you make them. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll be on repeat in your kitchen!
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Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers combine juicy ground chicken with smoky chipotle peppers and sharp cheddar cheese for a flavorful twist on a classic burger. Cooked to golden perfection either on the stovetop or grill, these burgers are served with fresh lettuce, tomato, red onion, and a creamy mayo or chipotle aioli, making for an easy and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For Serving
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Red onion slices
- Mayo or chipotle aioli
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, breadcrumbs, egg, green onions, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined, being careful not to overwork the mixture to keep the patties tender.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round burger patty, making sure they’re evenly sized for consistent cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they develop a golden brown crust and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, you can grill the patties over medium heat on a well-oiled grate, ensuring even cooking.
- Toast the Buns: If desired, toast the burger buns lightly on the skillet, grill, or toaster to add extra texture and warmth.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of mayo or chipotle aioli on the buns. Layer each with lettuce, a cooked chicken patty, tomato slices, and red onion. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Adjust the heat level by varying the amount of chipotle peppers used according to your spice preference.
- For an alternative cooking method, these patties can be air fried at 375°F for 12–14 minutes.
- Enhance the burgers by topping with avocado slices or substituting cheddar with pepper jack cheese for extra kick.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
