One summer evening, we hosted a small potluck on the back patio with a few close friends. The table was filled with all sorts of dishes—fresh salads, a big bowl of watermelon, and pitchers of lemonade—but what everyone talked about were the chicken burgers sizzling away on my skillet. These weren’t just any burgers. They were tender, packed with spinach, and oozing with melted white cheddar in every bite.
I remember how the smell drifted across the yard as the cheese crisped slightly against the hot pan and the spinach gave the burgers a vibrant, earthy freshness. My husband sliced tomatoes from our garden while the grandchildren hovered nearby, eager to build their own sandwiches. Some loaded theirs with pickles and onions, while others just wanted the burger with nothing but a bun. That’s the beauty of this recipe, it pleases everyone.
Cooking them felt less like a chore and more like part of the evening’s joy. The sizzling patties drew people into the kitchen, sparking stories and laughter. These burgers became the kind of food memory that anchors a night. Ever since, I keep this recipe handy for casual dinners or even when I need something comforting yet simple on a weeknight.
Short Description
These juicy chicken burgers combine lean ground chicken with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar, resulting in a flavorful, healthier twist on a classic burger. Perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or a quick weeknight meal.
Key Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Tools Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet or grill pan
- Spatula
- Instant-read thermometer
Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mixture
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, spinach, cheddar, garlic powder, panko, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined—avoid overmixing to keep burgers tender.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Form into patties about 1 inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet
Warm 2 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering.
Step 4: Cook the Burgers
Place patties carefully into the skillet. Cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If cheese begins to ooze slightly, that’s a good sign—it adds flavor.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Place patties on toasted buns with your favorite toppings. Fresh tomatoes, pickles, or a smear of Dijon pair beautifully.
Troubleshooting Tip: If the mixture feels too wet, add an extra tablespoon of panko at a time until patties hold together easily.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Flavorful: Sharp white cheddar brings richness, while spinach adds freshness.
Healthier: Made with lean ground chicken for a lighter take on burgers.
Quick: From start to finish in about 30 minutes.
Versatile: Works well on a skillet, grill, or even baked in the oven.
Family-Friendly: Kids and adults both love the cheesy, juicy bites.
Mistakes to Avoid & Solutions
Overmixing the meat: Leads to tough burgers. Mix only until ingredients are combined.
Skipping the indentation: Without pressing the center down slightly, burgers puff up unevenly.
Undercooking: Always check with a thermometer—chicken must reach 165°F.
Too much cheese: Tempting, but excess cheese makes patties fall apart. Stick to 1 cup.
Crowding the skillet: Cook in batches if needed; overcrowding prevents proper browning.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
Serve on toasted brioche or whole wheat buns.
Pair with sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a crisp green salad.
Add toppings like caramelized onions, avocado slices, or a drizzle of spicy aioli.
For drinks, lemonade or a light lager complement the flavors perfectly.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Refrigerator: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap uncooked patties individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before cooking.
Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat or in the oven at 325°F for 10–12 minutes. Avoid microwaving, as it dries out the chicken.
FAQs
1. Can I grill these instead of using a skillet?
Yes! Preheat grill to medium-high and cook 5–6 minutes per side.
2. Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, but thaw and squeeze out excess moisture before adding.
3. What if I don’t have panko?
Use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers as a substitute.
4. Can I use another cheese?
Sharp cheddar is best, but gouda, mozzarella, or Monterey Jack work nicely.
5. How do I keep the patties from sticking?
Make sure the skillet is hot before adding oil and avoid moving them too soon while searing.
Tips & Tricks
Lightly oil your hands before shaping patties to prevent sticking.
For extra flavor, mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard with the meat mixture.
Toasting the buns in the same skillet adds delicious flavor.
If making for a crowd, keep burgers warm in a 200°F oven until ready to serve.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Kick: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mixture.
Mediterranean Style: Swap cheddar for feta, add chopped olives and oregano.
Caprese Burgers: Mix in mozzarella and top cooked burgers with fresh basil and tomatoes.
BBQ Version: Stir 2 tbsp BBQ sauce into the meat mix and top with caramelized onions.
Low-Carb Option: Serve patties lettuce-wrapped instead of on buns.
Final Thoughts
These white cheddar and spinach chicken burgers have become one of those recipes I know I can count on, whether it’s for a quiet weeknight with my husband or a lively backyard potluck with friends. They’re simple enough for busy days but still carry that special touch of homemade comfort. I like how the spinach adds a pop of green that makes me feel like I’ve tucked something wholesome into every bite. The melted cheddar is the reward, it seeps into the meat and makes each mouthful rich without feeling heavy.
Sharing these at our potluck reminded me that food isn’t just about feeding people, it’s about creating an atmosphere where everyone feels welcome and cared for. That’s why I keep recipes like this close to my heart. They’re quick, nourishing, and flexible, but more than that, they’re the kind of meal that brings people together.
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach chopped
- 1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese shredded
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, spinach, cheddar, garlic powder, panko, egg, salt, and pepper just until combined.
- Shape into 1-inch-thick patties, pressing a small indentation in the center to prevent puffing.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium until shimmering. Add patties and cook 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and the internal temp reaches 165°F. A little cheese oozing is a good sign.
- Serve on toasted buns with toppings like fresh tomatoes, pickles, or a smear of Dijon.
