These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Homemade are a tasty twist on the classic chicken burger. Packed with tender ground chicken, fresh spinach, and melted white cheddar cheese, they bring a fresh, cheesy, and slightly green flavor to each bite. The burgers are juicy and full of flavor without being heavy, making them a great choice when you want something a bit different but still super satisfying.
I really love making these burgers because they feel like a homemade upgrade to the regular chicken burger. Adding spinach not only sneaks in some extra greens but also keeps the patties nice and moist. The white cheddar melts perfectly, giving every bite a little gooey surprise that’s so good. I usually mix everything by hand and cook them on a skillet for a quick, delicious meal.
My favorite way to serve these is on a soft bun with a simple spread of mayo and a slice of tomato or some crunchy pickles on the side. They’re perfect for a casual lunch or a weekend dinner, and I find they always get compliments from family and friends. If you’re looking for a great homemade burger that balances fresh veggies and cheese, this recipe is a winner for me every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base so pick fresh, lean meat. You can substitute with ground turkey or even a mix of chicken and pork for more flavor and moisture.
Fresh Spinach: Adds color and moisture. If you don’t have fresh, frozen spinach works too—just thaw and squeeze out water before adding.
White Cheddar Cheese: Gives a mild sharpness and creamy texture. If you can’t find white cheddar, Monterey Jack or mozzarella make good alternatives.
Breadcrumbs: Optional but help bind patties. For gluten-free, use crushed rice crackers or oats instead.
Onion and Garlic: Minced finely to evenly spread flavor. Powdered versions work in a pinch but fresh adds the best aroma.
How Do You Make Juicy Chicken Burgers That Don’t Fall Apart?
The key is to not overmix and to use a binding agent like egg and breadcrumbs. Here’s my simple approach:
- Combine ingredients gently, mix until just combined.
- Shape patties carefully; avoid pressing them too hard.
- Chill patties for at least 20 minutes before cooking; this helps them hold together.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice sear, then flip once to keep juices inside.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer: 165°F (74°C) ensures it’s cooked perfectly.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining the chicken and spinach evenly without making a mess.
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan – helps cook the patties evenly and gives nice grill marks without sticking.
- Spatula – to flip the burgers gently without breaking them apart.
- Meat thermometer – handy to check the chicken patties are safely cooked to 165°F without guessing.
- Cutting board and sharp knife – easy for chopping spinach, onions, and garlic finely.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of tang and a little sweetness.
- Swap white cheddar for pepper jack cheese to give the burgers a mild spicy kick.
- Mix in cooked quinoa or rice for extra texture and to make the patties a bit more filling.
- Try adding minced fresh herbs like parsley or basil for a fresh, bright flavor twist.
How to Make White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Homemade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup white cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns with sesame seeds
- Lettuce or fresh spinach leaves
- Tomato slices
- Mayonnaise or preferred sauce (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray for grilling or pan-frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 12 minutes to cook, so expect around 30 minutes total from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a homemade lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs (if using), salt, pepper, and paprika. Stir everything together gently until well mixed, being careful not to overwork the meat.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal parts. Shape each part into a round patty about 3/4 inch thick, pressing gently to hold them together without compacting too much.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly grease it with olive oil or cooking spray. Place the patties on the pan and cook for 5-6 minutes on one side until browned and grill marks appear. Flip carefully and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the patties are cooked completely through (internal temperature should reach 165°F or 74°C) and the cheese is melted inside.
4. Prepare the Buns and Assemble:
While the patties cook, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster. Spread mayonnaise or your favorite sauce on the bottom bun, then add fresh spinach or lettuce leaves and a slice of tomato. Place the cooked chicken burger on top and cover with the bun’s top half.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your homemade White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers immediately with your choice of sides like pickles, ketchup, or a fresh salad. Enjoy the juicy, cheesy flavor and fresh spinach goodness!
Can I Use Frozen Spinach Instead of Fresh?
Yes, you can! Just be sure to thaw the frozen spinach completely and squeeze out any excess water before mixing it into the patties to avoid sogginess.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Burgers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave to keep them juicy and flavorful.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking, which can even help them hold their shape better.
What Can I Substitute for White Cheddar?
Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a mild gouda work great as substitutes if you don’t have white cheddar on hand.
