Description
This Juicy Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger combines ground chicken with smoky chipotle peppers and warm spices for a flavorful, tender burger. Topped with creamy mayonnaise, melted pepper jack cheese, and fresh crunchy toppings in a toasted bun, it’s a perfect meal for those who love a bit of heat and a juicy bite. Ideal for grilling or stovetop cooking, it offers a balanced blend of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors with a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 pound Ground Chicken (Using a mix of dark and white meat ensures juiciness.)
- 2 tablespoons Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce (Add rich, smoky heat.)
- 1 tablespoon Adobo Sauce (Enhances flavor depth.)
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika (Provides a smoky flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Ground Cumin (Adds earthy warmth.)
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Enhances savory flavor.)
- 1 teaspoon Onion Powder (Can use fresh for stronger taste.)
- 1 teaspoon Salt (Essential for seasoning.)
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Adjust to taste.)
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Balances flavors.)
- 1/2 cup Breadcrumbs (Opt for gluten-free if needed.)
- 1 large Egg (Acts as a binder.)
For Assembly
- 1/2 cup Mayonnaise (Provides creaminess.)
- 4 slices Sliced Pepper Jack Cheese (Adds extra heat.)
- 4 pieces Burger Buns (Whole wheat or lettuce wraps for gluten-free.)
- 1 cup Fresh Toppings (Includes lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickled jalapeños.)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix thoroughly but gently to combine all ingredients evenly without overworking the meat, which keeps the patties tender.
- Form the Patties: Divide the mixture evenly into 4 portions and shape each into a round, flat patty approximately ¾ inch thick. Ensure the patties are uniform in size for even cooking.
- Preheat the Cooking Surface: Heat a stovetop skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
- Cook the Patties: Place the patties on the hot skillet or grill pan. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side until nicely browned and slightly crispy. Flip the patties and immediately place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty to melt while cooking the other side for another 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
- Prepare the Buns and Toppings: While the patties cook, toast the burger buns lightly on the skillet or in a toaster. Spread mayonnaise on the bottom halves of the buns. Layer fresh toppings such as lettuce, slices of tomato, red onion, and pickled jalapeños on top of the mayo.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place the cooked chipotle chicken patties with melted cheese on top of the fresh toppings. Cover with the top bun halves and press gently to hold together.
- Serve: Serve the burgers hot with your choice of sides like fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your juicy, spicy chipotle chicken burger!
Notes
- Use a mix of dark and white ground chicken for juicier patties.
- You can substitute chipotle peppers in adobo with chipotle powder for a milder flavor.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free breadcrumbs and lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Feel free to adjust the amount of chipotle peppers and adobo sauce to your preferred spice level.
- Make sure to cook the chicken patties thoroughly to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Fresh toppings can be customized with avocado, jalapeños, or pickles according to taste.
