White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

Picture this: the sizzle of juicy chicken patties hitting a warm skillet, releasing an irresistible aroma of garlic and melted white cheddar mingling with fresh spinach. The golden burger buns toast gently as vibrant green spinach flecks peek through the perfectly cooked patties. Each bite delivers a mouthwatering harmony of creamy cheese and tender chicken that feels like a foodie hug. Whether you’re craving something wholesome yet indulgent or aiming to impress dinner guests with minimal fuss, this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is your new go-to comfort delight.

Why You’ll Love This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

  • Quick and Easy: Ready in just 22 minutes, it’s perfect for busy nights when you want a delicious homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
  • Simple Ingredients: Uses common pantry staples and fresh ingredients you can easily find or have on hand, making prep a breeze.
  • Perfect for Weeknights: Balanced, wholesome, and filling without being heavy, these burgers satisfy cravings and keep dinner light.
  • Impressive Presentation: The specks of green spinach and gooey white cheddar ooze out just right, creating a visually stunning and appetizing meal.
  • Customizable: Easily tailored with your favorite toppings or bread to suit your mood or dietary preferences—endless possibilities!

Why This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe Works

This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe shines because of its perfect balance of moisture and flavor. The spinach adds a fresh, vibrant touch and a bit of natural juiciness, while the white cheddar melts beautifully, lending creamy richness. Breadcrumbs bind the patties gently, preventing them from falling apart but keeping them tender rather than dense. Mixing the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce into the chicken creates layers of tangy, umami flavors that elevate this from an ordinary burger to something truly special. Cooking the patties over medium heat ensures a juicy interior and a lightly crisp crust.

Large white plate showcasing a double spinach and cheese turkey burger with two perfectly cooked patties embedding vibrant green spinach leaves and melted cheese oozing slightly, layered with fresh spinach leaves and encased in a glossy sesame seed-topped bun, all elements arranged neatly to highlight the texture and freshness, photographed from a close 3/4 angle on a white marble countertop with natural light, professional food styling photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient here plays a key role in turning simple ground chicken into an irresistible burger masterpiece. Nothing fancy, just fresh and flavorful essentials.

  • 1 lb ground chicken: The lean protein base, perfect for a light yet satisfying burger.
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped: Adds color, nutrition, and subtle earthiness to every bite.
  • 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese: Melts wonderfully to deliver creamy richness and tang.
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Provides structure and helps keep the patties tender.
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion: Enhances savoriness with a mild sweetness when cooked.
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced: Gives a fragrant, warm depth that awakens the senses.
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard: Brightens the flavor profile and adds a gentle zing.
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce: A secret umami booster that rounds out the taste.
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning that brings all ingredients together.
  • Olive oil, for cooking: Adds subtle fruitiness and prevents sticking while frying.
  • 4 pieces burger buns: Soft and warm carriers for your juicy patties.
  • Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, extra cheese cards for endless customization.

Ingredient Substitutions & Tips

  • Fresh Spinach: You can substitute with frozen spinach that’s fully thawed and drained to avoid extra moisture.
  • Ground Chicken: Try ground turkey if you prefer a slightly different texture or flavor profile.
  • White Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack or mozzarella work well if you want a milder melt.
  • Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs add a lighter texture, or crushed crackers can add a unique twist.

👨‍🍳 Pro Tips for Perfect Results

  • Don’t overmix the meat: Stir gently so your patties stay tender and juicy instead of dense.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Cook chicken patties to 165°F (75°C) to ensure safety and perfect doneness.
  • Let patties rest: After cooking, allow them to sit a few minutes so juices redistribute for maximum flavor.
  • Toast your buns: A lightly toasted bun adds texture and prevents sogginess from juicy toppings.
  • Drain spinach well: Especially if using frozen, removing excess water keeps patties firm.

How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

Start by placing the ground chicken, finely chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, and minced garlic into a large mixing bowl. Add the Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce, then season with salt and black pepper to taste. Gently mix everything together until just combined—avoid overworking the meat to maintain a tender texture.

💡 Pro Tip: Use your hands for mixing to evenly distribute ingredients without compacting the meat too much.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions so each burger has the perfect size and thickness. Shape each portion gently into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing up during cooking.

💡 Pro Tip: Press your thumb lightly into the center of each patty for even cooking and a professional look.

Step 3: Heat the Skillet and Cook

Heat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle in a bit of olive oil to coat the bottom. Once the oil shimmers, carefully place each patty into the skillet. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing a crisp crust to form. Flip and cook for another 5 to 6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

💡 Pro Tip: Avoid pressing down on the patties with your spatula to keep them juicy and tender.

Step 4: Rest and Assemble

Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and let them rest for 3 to 5 minutes. This pause lets the juices redistribute and prevents dryness. Meanwhile, toast the burger buns lightly if you like. Assemble your burgers by layering each patty on a bun and adding optional toppings like crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, or extra cheese.

💡 Pro Tip: Serve immediately for the best experience, with warm, melty cheese and tender, juicy chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Learn from these common pitfalls:

  • Overmixing the meat: Leads to dense, tough burgers instead of fluffy juicy ones.
  • Skipping the rest period: Causes all the precious juices to run out as soon as you bite in.
  • Using wet or poorly drained spinach: Makes patties soggy and hard to form properly.
  • Cooking over high heat: May burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked.
  • Not seasoning well: Results in bland patties lacking depth and excitement.
  • Forgetting to make an indentation: Patties puff up and cook unevenly.

Delicious Variations to Try

Once you’ve mastered the classic White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe, why not mix things up?

Herbed Garlic Burgers

Add freshly chopped basil, parsley, and a touch more garlic for an aromatic herb explosion inside the patties.

Spicy Jalapeño Spinach Burgers

Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery kick that contrasts beautifully with melting cheddar.

Mediterranean Style

Mix in crumbled feta cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of oregano for a taste inspired by the Mediterranean coast.

Avocado and Lime Topped Burgers

Top your cooked patties with fresh avocado slices and a squeeze of lime for a creamy, zesty enhancement.

Mushroom Swiss Spinach Burgers

Sauté mushrooms and swap white cheddar for Swiss cheese for a rich, earthy twist on this classic.

How to Serve White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

A single white plate featuring one spinach and cheese stuffed chicken patty burger served with fresh spinach leaves inside a neatly sliced golden sesame seed bun, close-up shot angled to reveal the melted cheese oozing softly from the patty’s interior, highlighting the vibrant green spinach within the tender, juicy chicken texture, natural lighting enhancing the warm tones on a white marble surface, intimate styled plated serving photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh crisp lettuce and juicy tomato slices add refreshing contrast. A dollop of tangy mayonnaise or creamy avocado spread complements the cheesy richness perfectly.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crunchy sweet potato fries, a bright citrusy salad, or roasted seasonal veggies for a wholesome meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these burgers open-faced with melted cheese cascading over each patty, or stack with thin slices of pickled cucumber and red onion for a gourmet look.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep any leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked patties separated by parchment paper in a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.

Reheating

Reheat cooked patties gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven to preserve juiciness. Avoid microwaving which can dry them out.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw and squeeze out all excess water before mixing it into the patties to prevent sogginess.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute with a splash of soy sauce or balsamic vinegar for similar umami notes.

How can I tell when the chicken burgers are done?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature—it should reach 165°F (75°C).

Can I bake these chicken burgers instead of frying?

Yes, bake at 375°F (190°C) for approximately 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through for even cooking.

How do I prevent the burgers from falling apart?

Be sure to use breadcrumbs for binding and avoid overmixing. Chilling the shaped patties for 10-15 minutes before cooking also helps.

Are these burgers gluten-free?

Not as written, since breadcrumbs typically contain gluten. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers instead.

Can I prepare the patties in advance?

Yes, you can shape the patties and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before cooking.

What toppings pair best with these flavors?

Lettuce, tomato, pickles, avocado, and a smear of spicy mayo or honey mustard complement these burgers beautifully.

Final Thoughts

I absolutely adore how this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something spectacular – warm, cheesy, and bursting with fresh flavors. It’s a dish that feels like a cozy kitchen hug, perfect for sharing with family or friends on any night you crave pure comfort without complicated prep. The balance of creamy cheese and vibrant spinach tucked inside juicy chicken patties makes every bite memorable and satisfying.

Have you tried this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe? I’d love to hear how it turned out! Leave a comment below. If you loved this recipe, please share it with friends and family. Happy cooking! 😊

Print

White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a flavorful and healthy twist on the classic chicken burger. Combining juicy ground chicken with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese, these burgers are packed with nutrients and taste. Quick to prepare and cook, they’re perfect for a wholesome weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ treat.

  • Author: Cara
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Burger Mix

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (Can substitute frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
  • 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Cooking

  • Olive oil, for cooking

For Serving

  • 4 pieces burger buns
  • Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese

Instructions

  1. Preparation: 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 pepper. Gently stir until everything is just mixed but not overworked to keep the burgers tender.
  2. Form Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape each into a burger patty about half an inch thick to ensure even cooking.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Preheat a skillet over medium heat and drizzle a bit of olive oil to prevent sticking and add flavor.
  4. Cook Patties: Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), ensuring they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
  5. Rest the Patties: Once cooked through, transfer the patties to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This helps retain their juices and enhances flavor.
  6. Assemble Burgers: Place each patty onto a burger bun and add your desired toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers!

Notes

  • You can substitute fresh spinach with frozen spinach; just be sure to thaw and thoroughly drain it to avoid excess moisture.
  • For a gluten-free version, replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely by adding ground oats or almond flour.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach 165°F for safe consumption.
  • Letting the patties rest after cooking helps keep them juicy.
  • Add your favorite burger toppings or sauces for customization.

Keywords: chicken burgers, white cheddar, spinach, quick dinner, healthy burgers, skillet burgers

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