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Juicy white cheddar and spinach chicken burgers on toasted buns with melted cheese and fresh greens.

white cheddar and spinach chicken burgers

Juicy ground chicken burgers loaded with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar cheese. A healthier alternative to beef burgers, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

For the Burgers:

  • 1.25 lb 560 g ground chicken (85–90% lean)
  • 2 cups fresh spinach finely chopped (or thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
  • 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese about 110 g
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup panko breadcrumbs or gluten-free breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated onion or 2 tbsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce optional
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 3/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 –2 tbsp olive oil for cooking

For Serving:

  • 4 burger buns or lettuce wraps for low-carb
  • Extra white cheddar optional, for topping
  • Lettuce tomato, pickles, caramelized onions, sauces of choice

Instructions
 

Prep Ingredients:

  • Wash and finely chop spinach. Grate white cheddar. If using frozen spinach, thaw and squeeze out all excess water.

Mix Base:

  • In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, grated onion, garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire, salt, and pepper.

Add Spinach and Cheese:

  • Gently fold in spinach and cheddar until just combined. Do not overmix — this keeps the burgers tender.

Shape Patties:

  • Divide mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape into patties about 3/4-inch thick. Make a small thumb indentation in the center of each to prevent doming.

Cook the Burgers:

  • Grill: Preheat to medium-high. Cook burgers 5–6 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
  • Skillet: Heat oil in skillet over medium. Cook burgers 5–6 minutes per side. Cover for last minute to help melt cheese.
  • Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 12–15 minutes, then broil 1–2 minutes for browning.

Rest and Serve:

  • Let burgers rest 3 minutes. Assemble on buns with toppings or serve in lettuce wraps.

Notes

  • Use ground chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
 
  • Swap white cheddar with mozzarella, gouda, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
 
  • For meal prep: freeze uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Cook directly from frozen, adding 2–3 minutes to cook time.
 
  • Make mini sliders for kids or parties.