White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Homemade
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Homemade are a delicious twist on the classic chicken burger. They're packed with tender ground chicken, sharp white cheddar cheese, and fresh spinach,…
By Ava
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Reading time: 6 min
Tip: save now, make later.
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Homemade are a delicious twist on the classic chicken burger. They’re packed with tender ground chicken, sharp white cheddar cheese, and fresh spinach, making each bite flavorful and satisfying. The melted cheese and greens add a nice touch of creaminess and a pop of color that makes these burgers so inviting.
I love making these burgers because they feel like a treat but still bring some good-for-you ingredients to the table. Mixing the spinach right into the chicken keeps everything juicy and adds a little extra freshness. Plus, the white cheddar melts perfectly, giving that rich cheesy flavor without overpowering the chicken. It’s one of those recipes where you can really taste the care put into it.
My favorite way to serve these burgers is with a soft bun, maybe a slice of tomato and a little mayo or mustard, and a side of sweet potato fries. I find that the blend of creamy cheese and spinach makes them feel special enough for a weekend dinner but easy enough for a quick weeknight meal. Everyone who tries them asks for the recipe, so I know they’re a crowd-pleaser!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground chicken: This is the star protein. Ground chicken is lean and mild, so it pairs well with the stronger flavors of spinach and cheddar. If you want a juicier burger, try mixing in some ground turkey or adding a tablespoon of olive oil.
Fresh spinach: I like using fresh spinach for its color and mild taste. You can substitute with kale or Swiss chard, but make sure to chop and lightly wilt them first to avoid a tough texture in the burger.
White cheddar cheese: The sharpness melts nicely into the patty. If white cheddar isn’t available, Monterey Jack or mozzarella are good milder substitutes that melt well.
Breadcrumbs & egg: These help bind the patties so they hold together while cooking. For gluten-free, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead of breadcrumbs.
How Can You Keep Chicken Burgers Moist and Tender?
Chicken burgers can dry out easily, so use these tips for juicy results:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients; mix just until combined to keep the texture light.
- Offer gentle shaping—form patties without compacting too much.
- Cook over medium heat to get a golden outside without drying the inside.
- Use an instant-read thermometer to check for 165°F—this keeps burgers safe and moist.
- Add finishing cheese on top and cover the pan briefly to melt, adding richness without extra cooking.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl – perfect for combining all the ingredients evenly without mess.
- Nonstick skillet or grill pan – helps cook the burgers evenly and prevents sticking.
- Spatula – lets you flip the patties gently without breaking them apart.
- Measuring cups and spoons – for accurate ingredient amounts that keep the flavor balanced.
- Instant-read thermometer – handy to check the chicken burgers are cooked to a safe 165°F.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap chicken for ground turkey if you want a slightly different but still lean option.
- Add finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a tangy burst that complements the cheddar cheese.
- Mix in some minced jalapeño or chili flakes for a mild spicy kick.
- Use feta cheese instead of cheddar to bring a salty, tangy twist paired well with the spinach.
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Homemade
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb 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
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
For Cooking & Serving:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegetable oil (for cooking)
- 4 burger buns
- Fresh spinach leaves (for garnish/serving)
- Mayonnaise, mustard, or preferred condiments (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and mixing, plus around 12 minutes for cooking the patties (6 minutes each side). Toasting buns and assembling the burgers adds just a few more minutes. In total, expect around 30 minutes from start to finish.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and oregano. Stir everything together gently using your hands or a spoon until the ingredients are well combined. Don’t overmix to keep your burgers tender.
2. Forming the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 even portions. Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Try to keep them uniform so they cook evenly.
3. Cooking the Burgers:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Once hot, place the chicken patties in the pan. Cook them for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and fully cooked through — the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Melting the Cheese (Optional):
About one minute before the patties are done, add a small slice or sprinkle some extra shredded white cheddar on each patty. Cover the pan with a lid to help the cheese melt nicely.
5. Toasting the Buns:
While the patties cook, toast the burger buns lightly in the same skillet or on a grill. This adds a bit of crunch and warmth to your burger.
6. Assembling the Burgers:
Place a handful of fresh spinach leaves on the bottom half of each bun. Then add the cooked chicken patty topped with melted cheddar. Finish with your favorite condiments like mayo or mustard, and top with the other half of the bun.
7. Serving:
Serve your homemade White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers immediately. They go wonderfully with sides like sweet potato fries, a crisp salad, or your favorite chips.
Enjoy your tasty, homemade chicken burgers packed with fresh spinach and creamy white cheddar!
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for These Burgers?
Yes, you can! Just make sure the ground chicken is fully thawed before mixing to ensure even cooking. Thaw it overnight in the fridge or quickly using a sealed bag submerged in cold water.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the patties ahead, then refrigerate them raw for up to 24 hours before cooking, or freeze for longer storage. Just thaw completely before cooking for best results.
What Can I Use Instead of White Cheddar?
If you don’t have white cheddar, good alternatives include Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or feta cheese. Each will offer a slightly different flavor but still melt nicely in the patties.