Easy White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers

On a hectic weeknight, when the family is rushing through dinner, these White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers come together quickly for a satisfying meal that feels special without the fuss. The juicy ground chicken blends seamlessly with chopped fresh spinach for a pop of green goodness and nutrition, while the melted white cheddar adds a creamy, tangy richness that elevates every bite. It’s the kind of dish that turns a simple patty into something crave-worthy.

I appreciate how these burgers fit right into busy schedules, ready in under 30 minutes from start to finish. They reheat well for lunch the next day, keeping their texture intact without drying out. Everyone in the family loves the customizable toppings, making it easy to please different tastes.

Why We Love This Recipe

• Quick and Healthy: These burgers deliver a nutritious boost from spinach while cooking up in just 12 minutes for effortless meals.
• Flavorful Twist: The white cheddar melts into gooey perfection, pairing with garlic and spices for a savory depth that’s far from ordinary.
• Family Friendly: Versatile enough for kids or adults, they encourage fun with toppings like avocado or tomato.
• Make It Yours: Easy to adapt with swaps like turkey for variety without losing the cozy appeal.

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Ingredients to make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers

A handful of fresh, simple ingredients come together to create these flavorful burgers, where the spinach adds earthiness and the white cheddar brings a smooth, melty contrast that enhances every bite. Opting for quality cheese and fresh garlic really amplifies the taste, making the dish feel gourmet yet approachable.

• Ground chicken – forms the tender, juicy base of the patties for a lighter alternative to beef.
• Fresh spinach – finely chopped to infuse nutrition and a subtle green flavor without overpowering the mix.
• Shredded white cheddar cheese – melts inside for creamy pockets of tangy richness in each burger.
• Breadcrumbs – helps bind the mixture for easy shaping and a slightly crisp exterior.
• Large egg – acts as a binder to hold everything together during cooking.
• Garlic – minced for aromatic depth that boosts the savory profile.
• Onion powder – adds a mild, sweet undertone without extra chopping.
• Paprika – provides a gentle smokiness and vibrant color to the patties.
• Salt – seasons the blend to bring out all the natural flavors.
• Black pepper – offers a subtle kick to balance the cheesiness.
• Olive oil – used for cooking to prevent sticking and add a touch of healthy fat.
• Burger buns and toppings – like lettuce, tomato, or avocado for assembling a complete, customizable sandwich.

How to Make White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers

Step 1: Combine the Ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, gently mix the ground chicken, finely chopped fresh spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper until just combined. Use your hands or a spoon to avoid overmixing, which keeps the patties tender. The mixture might feel slightly sticky, but that’s normal for moist results.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form each into a patty about 1/2-inch thick. If it’s too sticky to handle, lightly oil your hands for easier shaping without adding extra mess. This step ensures even cooking and a uniform size for all burgers.

Step 3: Heat the Pan

Warm a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add the olive oil, letting it shimmer before proceeding. Avoid high heat to prevent burning the exterior while the inside cooks through. Cook in batches if needed to give each patty space.

Step 4: Cook the Burgers

Place the patties in the hot pan and cook for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature hits 165°F for safety. Flip carefully with a spatula to maintain their shape. The cheese will melt beautifully inside as they finish.

Step 5: Rest and Assemble

Transfer the cooked burgers to a plate and let them rest for a couple of minutes to redistribute juices. Toast the buns if you like for added crunch, then layer on toppings such as lettuce, tomato slices, or avocado. Serve right away for the best warm, melty texture.

Pro Tips for Success

• Check Internal Temp: Always use a thermometer to ensure burgers reach 165°F, guaranteeing they’re fully cooked and safe.
• Handle Sticky Mix: Wet your hands or add a touch of oil when shaping to make patties without frustration.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Cook in batches so heat stays even, preventing steaming instead of browning.
• Customize Toppings: Experiment with extras like avocado for creaminess, tailoring to your crowd’s preferences.

How to Serve White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers

Garnishes

I like to top these burgers with a sprinkle of fresh chopped spinach for extra vibrancy or a drizzle of tangy mustard to cut through the cheesiness. Sliced red onion adds a crisp bite that contrasts the tender patty nicely. These simple touches make the dish feel fresh and inviting without much effort.

Side Dishes

Pair the burgers with a crisp green salad dressed lightly in vinaigrette to echo the spinach’s earthiness. Roasted sweet potato wedges bring a cozy sweetness that balances the savory flavors. For something heartier, try coleslaw with a creamy base to complement the melted white cheddar.

Creative Ways to Present

I often serve these on whole-grain buns for a rustic look, stacking toppings high for visual appeal. For a fun twist, slice the burgers and tuck them into lettuce wraps for a low-carb option that’s still satisfying. This presentation keeps things light and modern while highlighting the golden, juicy centers.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store any extra White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers in an airtight container in the fridge, where they keep well for up to three days. Layer parchment between patties to prevent sticking. This makes it simple to grab a quick protein-packed lunch midweek.

Freezing

For longer storage, I wrap cooled burgers individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag, where they last up to two months without losing much flavor. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain texture. It’s a great way to have homemade meals on hand for busy days.

Reheating

I reheat burgers in a skillet over low heat for a few minutes per side to restore crispness, or use the microwave covered with a damp paper towel for about 1-2 minutes to avoid drying. The oven at 350°F works too, taking around 10 minutes wrapped in foil. Either method keeps the cheese melty and the patty juicy.