Smash Chicken Burger is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy, seasoned chicken patties with melted cheese and crispy toppings. Perfect for casual gatherings or hearty lunches, this recipe stands out for its flavor and texture. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious burger that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare: In just 25 minutes, you can have this mouthwatering Smash Chicken Burger ready to serve.
- Flavor Packed: The blend of smoked paprika and cajun seasoning adds a delightful kick to every bite.
- Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite toppings or sauces to make it your own.
- Family-Friendly: This dish appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great option for family meals.
- Healthy Option: Made with lean ground chicken, it’s a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this tasty Smash Chicken Burger recipe, gather your essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet: A non-stick skillet ensures even cooking and prevents the patties from sticking.
- Mixing bowl: A large mixing bowl allows for easy combining of ingredients without mess.
- Spatula: A sturdy spatula is crucial for smashing the patties evenly while cooking.
Ingredients
To make the Smash Chicken Burger at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
- 2 tablespoons green onion (diced)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoon cajun
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced)
For Cooking and Assembly
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice, more if needed)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 strips Turkey Turkey Bacon (cooked and cut in half making 4 pieces)
- 2 buns (we love using brioche buns, toasted)
- mayo
- sriracha
- red onion (sliced)
How to Make Smash Chicken Burger
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties
- In a mixing bowl combine all of the chicken patty ingredients; give it a good mix until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and roll them into balls.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
- Preheat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add 4 patty balls to the skillet.
- Smash each ball with a spatula until they are flat.
- Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned on one side, then flip them over.
Step 3: Add Cheese
- After flipping, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese melts.
Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers
- While patties are cooking, drizzle mayo and sriracha sauce on each toasted bun using a butter knife.
- Place two cheesy patties on each bun followed by sliced red onion and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon.
- Cover with the second bun and repeat for the second burger.
Enjoy this delicious Smash Chicken Burger as part of your next meal!
How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger
The Smash Chicken Burger is a delightful combination of flavors and textures, making it a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your burger experience.
Classic with a Twist
- French Fries – Crispy and golden, they are the perfect accompaniment to soak up all the burger goodness.
- Sweet Potato Fries – A healthier alternative offering a hint of sweetness that pairs nicely with savory flavors.
Fresh and Crunchy
- Coleslaw – A tangy, crunchy side that adds freshness and balances the richness of the burger.
- Pickles – Sharp and zesty, pickles provide a great contrast to the juicy chicken patties.
Creative Additions
- Avocado Slices – Creamy avocado adds richness and complements the spices in the burger beautifully.
- Grilled Vegetables – Zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms can add a healthy touch and extra flavor to your plate.
How to Perfect Smash Chicken Burger
To achieve the best Smash Chicken Burger, focus on key elements that enhance flavor and texture. Here are some helpful tips.
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Always opt for fresh ground chicken and vegetables for maximum flavor and juiciness.
- Don’t Overmix – Mix the patty ingredients gently to avoid tough burgers; you want them tender!
- Smash Wisely – Use firm pressure when smashing the patties in the skillet for an even cook and crispy edges.
- Cheese Melting Technique – Covering the skillet after adding cheese helps it melt perfectly over each patty.
- Toast Your Buns – Lightly toasting the buns enhances their texture and prevents sogginess from sauces.
Best Side Dishes for Smash Chicken Burger
Pairing your Smash Chicken Burger with delicious sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic options.
- Garden Salad – A mix of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers dressed lightly for a refreshing crunch.
- Potato Wedges – Seasoned wedges baked until crispy; serve with dipping sauces for added fun.
- Corn on the Cob – Grilled or boiled corn brushed with butter makes for a sweet side that kids love.
- Baked Beans – Hearty beans in a tangy sauce add protein and complement your burger’s flavors well.
- Macaroni Salad – Creamy pasta salad provides comfort alongside your savory chicken burger.
- Onion Rings – Crispy onion rings deliver an extra crunch that pairs wonderfully with any burger dish.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making a Smash Chicken Burger, it’s easy to overlook key steps that can affect the outcome. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Not Preheating the Skillet: Failing to preheat your skillet can lead to uneven cooking and prevent that delicious sear on your patties. Always ensure your skillet is hot before adding the patties.
Overmixing the Meat: Mixing the ground chicken too much can create dense patties that aren’t juicy. Combine just until incorporated for a tender burger.
Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning your chicken mixture properly will result in bland burgers. Use spices like smoked paprika and Cajun seasoning generously for flavor.
Using Cold Ingredients: Cold chicken from the fridge can cause the patties to cook unevenly. Allowing your ingredients, especially the chicken and cheese, to come to room temperature will help them cook better.
Not Covering While Cooking: Forgetting to cover the skillet while melting cheese can lead to undercooked patties. Use a lid to trap heat and ensure the cheese melts perfectly.
Ignoring Bun Preparation: Using un-toasted buns can make for a soggy burger experience. Always toast your buns for added texture and flavor.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Smash Chicken Burgers in an airtight container.
- They will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing Smash Chicken Burger
- Wrap cooked burgers tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Place them in a freezer-safe container; they can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Smash Chicken Burger
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the burgers in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave: Place the burger on a microwave-safe plate and heat for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Reheat each side of the burger for about 3-4 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making a Smash Chicken Burger:
What is a Smash Chicken Burger?
A Smash Chicken Burger consists of seasoned ground chicken formed into juicy patties, typically smashed down during cooking for crispy edges and topped with cheese and other condiments.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey is an excellent substitute for ground chicken in this recipe, providing similar flavors and texture.
How do I make my Smash Chicken Burger spicy?
To add spice, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce directly into the meat mixture before forming patties.
What can I serve with my Smash Chicken Burger?
These burgers pair well with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad for a balanced meal.
Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.
Final Thoughts
The Smash Chicken Burger is not only delicious but also versatile, allowing you to customize toppings and flavors based on your preferences. Whether you prefer spicy mayo or extra veggies, this burger is sure to impress at lunch or dinner. Give it a try!
Smash Chicken Burger
Indulge in the mouthwatering Smash Chicken Burger, a delightful twist on classic comfort food. This recipe features juicy ground chicken patties seasoned with smoked paprika and Cajun spices, topped with melty cheddar cheese and crispy turkey bacon for crunch. Perfect for casual gatherings or hearty lunches, these burgers are easily customizable with your favorite toppings. In just 25 minutes, you can serve up a delicious meal that appeals to both kids and adults alike. Enjoy the perfect balance of flavor and texture with every bite!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
- 2 tablespoons green onion (diced)
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 strips turkey bacon (cooked)
- 2 toasted buns
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, green onion, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, black pepper, and garlic until mixed well.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and roll them into balls.
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken balls to the skillet and smash them down with a spatula to form patties.
- Cook for about 4-5 minutes until browned before flipping them over. Add cheese on top and cover with a lid to melt for an additional 3-4 minutes.
- Assemble your burger by spreading mayo and sriracha on each toasted bun, adding a cheesy patty topped with turkey bacon and red onion.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approximately 200g)
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 670mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 90mg