Easy Ground Chicken Burgers for Busy Weeknights

Ground Chicken Burgers

If you’re searching for an easy, juicy, and healthy dinner idea that comes together in a flash, these Ground Chicken Burgers are here to become your new weeknight favorite. Bursting with flavor and made with simple ingredients, this recipe proves that quick meals can still be delicious and wholesome. Whether you’re feeding hungry kids, busy adults, or surprising yourself with a guilt-free indulgence, these burgers bring a tasty twist to your dinner table without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday pantry staples and fresh items that combine effortlessly for rich flavor.
  • Quick Prep: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights with little time to spare.
  • Healthy Option: Ground chicken is leaner than beef but keeps your burger juicy and moist.
  • Versatile Flavor: Seasoned just right so it pairs well with a variety of toppings and sides.
  • Family-Friendly: Mild enough for kids yet satisfying for adults, making mealtime easy and fun.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Crafting the perfect Ground Chicken Burgers starts with simple but thoughtful ingredients. Each item plays a key role in creating the juicy texture, delicious taste, and inviting color of these burgers, making your meal both delightful and nutritious.

  • Ground chicken: The lean protein base that stays tender and juicy when cooked right.
  • Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the mixture and keeps the patties from falling apart.
  • Egg: Adds structure while helping everything stick together smoothly.
  • Garlic powder and onion powder: Infuse deep flavor without overpowering the chicken’s natural taste.
  • Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the ingredients.
  • Fresh parsley or cilantro: Brightens up the burger with a burst of fresh color and subtle herbal notes.
  • Olive oil or avocado oil: For cooking, ensuring the burgers crisp up nicely without drying out.

Variations for Ground Chicken Burgers

This recipe is a fantastic foundation that invites endless creativity. Feel free to customize your Ground Chicken Burgers to suit your tastes, dietary needs, or what’s in season – it’s all about making this your own delicious creation.

  • Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to bring in some heat.
  • Cheese lovers: Mix shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta into the mixture for gooey, melty bliss.
  • Herb swap: Experiment with basil, dill, or thyme for unique aromatic profiles.
  • Low-carb option: Skip breadcrumbs and use almond flour or grated zucchini for binding.
  • Asian twist: Add ginger, soy sauce, and green onions for a flavorful departure from classic flavors.
Easy Ground Chicken Burgers for Busy Weeknights

How to Make Ground Chicken Burgers

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Gather all ingredients, then finely chop herbs and measure out spices to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Step 2: Mix the Burger Patty

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine all elements without overworking the meat.

Step 3: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into equal portions and form slightly flattened patties, roughly 4 inches in diameter and about half an inch thick, so they cook evenly.

Step 4: Cook the Burgers

Heat olive or avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add patties and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side, until golden brown on the outside and fully cooked inside (internal temperature of 165°F).

Step 5: Rest and Serve

Let the burgers rest for a few minutes after cooking to seal in the juices, then serve on your favorite buns or lettuce wraps with your preferred toppings.

Pro Tips for Making Ground Chicken Burgers

  • Don’t overmix: Handle the meat gently when mixing to avoid dense, tough patties.
  • Test cook a small patty first: This helps you adjust seasoning before forming all the burgers.
  • Use a meat thermometer: Ensure patties reach 165°F to prevent undercooked chicken.
  • Add moisture if needed: Grate a bit of zucchini or add a splash of chicken broth for extra juiciness.
  • Press an indent: Make a small dip in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly without puffing up.

How to Serve Ground Chicken Burgers

Garnishes

Classic toppings like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and sweet red onions make these burgers pop visually and taste-wise. Don’t forget a dollop of your favorite sauce – mayo, mustard, or a spicy chipotle aioli adds a luscious touch.

Side Dishes

Pair these ground chicken burgers with crispy sweet potato fries, a vibrant mixed green salad, or roasted seasonal veggies for a well-rounded meal that keeps things light but filling.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the burgers wrapped in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option or on toasted whole-grain buns with avocado slices and pickled jalapeños for a gourmet cafe vibe right at home.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place cooked burgers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Wrap them individually in parchment paper to maintain freshness and prevent sticking if stacking.

Freezing

Freeze uncooked patties by laying them on a parchment-lined tray until firm, then transfer to freezer bags; they’ll last up to 3 months. Cooked burgers can be frozen as well, but texture may vary on reheating.

Reheating

Reheat burgers gently in a skillet over low heat or in a toaster oven to preserve juiciness. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it dries out the meat.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely, ground turkey can be swapped in with a very similar texture and flavor; just watch the cooking time to avoid drying out.

How do I prevent the burgers from falling apart?

Make sure to include a binding agent like an egg and breadcrumbs, and handle the mixture gently without overmixing.

Are these burgers gluten-free?

They can be, if you replace regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a binder.

Can I grill these burgers?

Yes, grilling works great; just oil the grill grates well and monitor closely to prevent sticking or drying out.

What sauces go best with Ground Chicken Burgers?

Try creamy mayo-based sauces, tangy mustard, barbecue sauce, or even tzatziki for a refreshing twist.

Final Thoughts

Easy to make, quick to cook, and delicious every time, these Ground Chicken Burgers are a fantastic addition to your weeknight dinner lineup. With endless ways to customize and loads of flavor packed in, these burgers will soon become a staple you look forward to sharing with your family and friends. So go ahead, try the recipe tonight and enjoy a juicy, healthy meal that hits all the right spots.

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Ground Chicken Burgers

These Ground Chicken Burgers are a quick, easy, and healthy dinner option that comes together in under 30 minutes. Made with simple pantry staples and fresh herbs, they are juicy, flavorful, and leaner than traditional beef burgers. Perfect for family meals, these versatile patties can be customized with a variety of seasonings and toppings to suit your taste while remaining wholesome and satisfying.

  • Author: Lucas
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Pan-Frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten Free (if using gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour)

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (or almond flour for low-carb/gluten-free option)
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley or cilantro, finely chopped

For Cooking

  • 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil

Optional Variations & Add-ins

  • Chopped jalapeños or 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (for spicy kick)
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar, mozzarella, or feta cheese (for cheesy burgers)
  • Fresh herbs like basil, dill, or thyme (herb swap)
  • 1 tsp grated ginger, 1 tbsp soy sauce, and 2 green onions, chopped (for Asian twist)
  • Grated zucchini or a splash of chicken broth (to add moisture)

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Finely chop fresh herbs and measure spices to streamline the cooking process.
  2. Mix the Burger Patty: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs (or almond flour), egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and fresh herbs. Mix gently but thoroughly to incorporate all ingredients without overworking the meat.
  3. Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions and form slightly flattened patties approximately 4 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
  4. Cook the Burgers: Heat olive oil or avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the patties and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C).
  5. Rest and Serve: Allow the burgers to rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Serve on buns, lettuce wraps, or your preferred base with desired toppings and sauces.

Notes

  • Do not overmix the meat mixture to avoid dense, tough patties.
  • Test cook a small patty first to adjust seasoning if needed.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
  • Add moisture by grating zucchini or adding a splash of chicken broth if burgers feel dry.
  • Press a small indent in the center of each patty before cooking to prevent puffing.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 burger (without bun or toppings)
  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 12 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 10 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg

Keywords: ground chicken burgers, healthy burgers, quick dinner, juicy chicken patties, gluten-free burger

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