I absolutely love sharing this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe with you because it’s quickly become one of my go-to meals whenever I want something delicious, wholesome, and a little different from the usual burger fare. These chicken burgers are juicy and packed with savory flavors, thanks to the creamy white cheddar and fresh spinach folded right into the patties. Cooking them up is a breeze, and they always impress whether I’m serving them at a casual weeknight dinner or a sunny weekend barbecue with friends. If you want something that feels indulgent without the heaviness, this recipe really hits the spot.
Why You’ll Love This White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
What makes this recipe stand out for me is the incredible flavor combination. The sharp, tangy notes from the white cheddar melt into the moist chicken, while the fresh spinach adds a pop of color and a subtle earthiness that brightens every bite. The Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce bring a little extra depth, making these burgers savory but balanced. Every time I take a bite, I’m reminded how satisfying a homemade chicken burger can be without needing heavy sauces or complicated extras.
Besides the fantastic taste, the ease of preparation is something I really appreciate. It takes just a handful of simple ingredients that I usually keep on hand, and the mixing, shaping, and cooking all come together smoothly without any fuss. They cook quickly, too, which is perfect for busy evenings. And honestly, the versatility means you can dress them up or down for any occasion—from casual family dinners to impressing guests at a summer party. Once you try this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe, it’ll likely become a staple in your kitchen, just like it did for me.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make these burgers truly standout, I rely on a carefully chosen but simple list of ingredients. Each one plays an important role in delivering perfect flavor, texture, and balance, transforming everyday components into something special.
- Ground chicken (450 g): The lean base that keeps the burgers tender and protein-packed.
- Fresh spinach (100 g), finely chopped: Adds delightful color and a subtle earthy freshness.
- White cheddar cheese (60 g), shredded: Melts beautifully inside the patties, giving them creamy richness.
- Breadcrumbs (25 g): Helps bind everything together without drying out the burgers.
- Onion (40 g), finely chopped: Brings a gentle sweetness and slight bite.
- Garlic cloves (2), minced: Adds a savory aroma that elevates all the flavors.
- Dijon mustard (15 ml): Imparts a gentle tang that brightens the taste.
- Worcestershire sauce (5 ml): Adds depth and a savory umami kick.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to bring out all the flavors.
- Olive oil, for cooking: Keeps the patties moist and helps achieve a golden exterior.
- Burger buns and optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, and extra white cheddar to customize and garnish your creation.
Directions
Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. I find mixing by hand works best so everything is evenly distributed without overworking the meat.
Step 2: Divide your mixture into four equal portions and shape each one into a patty about 1.5 centimeters thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each—this little trick helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up in the middle.
Step 3: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and lightly coat it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Place the patties in the pan, making sure to leave enough space between them. Cook each side for about 5 to 6 minutes, or until the outside is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 75°C. This ensures they’re juicy yet fully cooked.
Step 4: Transfer the cooked patties to a plate and allow them to rest for several minutes. This resting time lets the juices redistribute so each bite is perfectly moist.
Step 5: Assemble your burgers by placing each patty on a bun and adding any toppings you love, like crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, or another slice of white cheddar for extra indulgence. Serve immediately while hot and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
This White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe makes four hearty servings—just right for a family meal or gathering with friends. The prep time is approximately 15 minutes, and the cook time is about 12 minutes, totaling a quick 30 minutes from start to finish, including resting. I love how efficient this recipe is when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
How to Serve This White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe
When it comes to serving, I like to keep things simple but complementary. Sweet potato fries or a crisp, tangy slaw are my go-to sides because they add contrast to the creamy, cheesy burgers. A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette also brightens the plate and balances the meal’s richness. I often toast the burger buns lightly to add a little crunch and warmth to each bite, and that extra crunch really elevates the experience.
For garnishing, layering some crisp lettuce and thick tomato slices adds freshness and vibrancy that I love. If I’m feeling indulgent, a few extra shreds of white cheddar or even a bit of avocado spread on the bun takes these burgers over the top. Presentation-wise, serving the burgers on a simple white plate with the sides neatly arranged makes it feel special without any fuss.
When pairing beverages, I enjoy a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a light, fruity beer to complement the savory flavors without overwhelming them. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling iced tea with a splash of lemon works beautifully and keeps the meal refreshing. These burgers are perfect for casual weeknight dinners, but they also shine at weekend get-togethers or even casual celebrations where you want something both tasty and approachable. I always serve them hot so you get that melty cheese and juicy bite right away.
Variations
I love how adaptable this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe is. If you want to switch things up, try incorporating different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder, stretchy melt. I’ve also experimented with adding finely chopped jalapeños to the mix for a little heat, and it works amazingly well.
If you’re following a gluten-free diet, swapping regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free ones or even almond flour does the trick without losing the binding effect. For a dairy-free or vegan take, you can skip the cheese entirely or use a plant-based alternative, and substitute the chicken with mashed chickpeas or a lentil-based burger mix—though the cooking times and textures will differ slightly.
Cooking methods are flexible, too. While I mostly use a skillet or grill pan, these burgers can be cooked on an outdoor grill, which adds a wonderful smoky flavor perfect for summer. Baking them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) on a lined sheet for about 20 minutes is a great hands-off option, turning them halfway through for even cooking.
Storage and Reheating
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have any leftover chicken burgers, I store them in airtight containers and keep them in the fridge where they’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. I prefer glass containers with tight-fitting lids because they help maintain moisture and prevent any fridge odors from affecting the flavors. Make sure the burgers are fully cooled before storing to avoid condensation buildup.
Freezing
This recipe freezes beautifully, which is great for meal prep! To freeze, I place the raw or cooked patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet in a single layer and freeze them until solid. Then I transfer them into freezer bags or containers with a date label. They keep well for up to 2 months. When freezing uncooked patties, it’s best to separate them with parchment paper so they don’t stick together.
Reheating
Reheating these burgers is easiest and tastiest in a skillet over medium-low heat, covered with a lid to gently warm them through without drying out. About 5 minutes per side usually works well. Alternatively, reheating in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes also restores good texture. I try to avoid microwaving because it can sometimes make the burgers rubbery and unevenly warm, which dampens the enjoyment.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cheese instead of white cheddar?
Absolutely! While white cheddar gives a sharp and creamy flavor, you can substitute it with cheeses like Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even gouda. Just pick one that melts well to keep the burgers moist and flavorful.
Are these burgers suitable for grilling outdoors?
Yes, they grill wonderfully! Just be sure to oil the grill grates well to prevent sticking, and watch the cooking time closely as these patties cook quickly on an open flame. Turning carefully will keep them intact and juicy.
Can I prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze before cooking?
Definitely. You can make the patties and keep them refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking. For longer storage, freeze them raw and cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
What sides pair best with these chicken burgers?
I recommend sides that balance the rich and savory flavor of the burgers, like sweet potato fries, a bright coleslaw, roasted vegetables, or a fresh garden salad. These options create a well-rounded meal with pleasing textures.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
You can adapt it by substituting the ground chicken with mashed chickpeas, lentils, or plant-based meat alternatives and using vegan cheese. Keep in mind cooking times and texture will differ, but the flavor combinations still work well.
Conclusion
I genuinely hope you give this White Cheddar & Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe a try because it’s one of those dishes that never fails to bring comfort and joy to the table. With its simple ingredients, rich taste, and versatility, it’s a recipe I find myself reaching for over and over. Once you experience that melty cheddar mingling with fresh spinach in a juicy chicken patty, I’m confident you’ll love it as much as I do. Happy cooking!
