Biting into a succulent White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burger is like finding the perfect balance between wholesome goodness and irresistible comfort food. I still remember the first time I whipped up these vibrant patties on a lazy Saturday afternoon—my kitchen filled with the chatter of friends and the sizzle of olive oil hitting the hot skillet. The combination of lean ground chicken, tender spinach, and gooey white cheddar cheese comes together in harmony, offering a juicy bite that’s both refreshing and deeply satisfying. You get that subtle pop of green from the spinach, a creamy cheese pull that makes every mouthful feel luxurious, and the gentle kick of Dijon mustard and garlic dancing on your taste buds. These burgers have a little story in every layer, from the hearty brioche bun to the optional crisp lettuce and tangy pickles you crown it with.
What makes these chicken burgers so special isn’t just the flavor—it’s how approachable they are for any home cook. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting a backyard barbecue, or simply craving a flavorful lunch, this recipe has your back. It’s rated as Beginner-friendly, and you can have everything prepped, cooked, and resting in about 35 minutes total. Plus, at around 520 calories per serving, it strikes the right note between indulgence and a healthy twist. Swap in whole wheat buns or go gluten-free if that’s more your vibe, and you still end up with that same irresistible texture and taste. Trust me, once you’ve experienced the first cheesy, spinach-studded bite, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again—an easy, crowd-pleasing classic that steals the spotlight every time.
KEY INGREDIENTS IN WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s break down the star players in this recipe. Each component adds texture, flavor, or structure, ensuring your burgers come out juicy, melty, and perfectly seasoned.
- Ground chicken
Provides a lean and tender base that soaks up all the seasonings, keeping each patty moist without excess grease.
- Fresh spinach
Finely chopped and folded into the mix, it brings vibrant color, a subtle earthy flavor, and a boost of nutrients.
- White cheddar cheese
Grated for even distribution, this cheese melts into gooey pockets, delivering a rich, tangy creaminess in every bite.
- Bread crumbs
Act as a binder, absorbing moisture and helping the patties hold their shape while ensuring a light, tender interior.
- Garlic
Minced to release its aromatic oils, it infuses the mixture with a savory depth and subtle warmth.
- Dijon mustard
Adds a tangy kick and emulsifies the mixture, making the burgers extra juicy and flavorful.
- Onion powder
Contributes a gentle sweetness and depth without the moisture of fresh onions, keeping the patties from becoming soggy.
- Salt and black pepper
Essential seasonings that elevate all the other flavors and bring balance to the savory profile.
- Olive oil
Used for cooking, it creates a lightly crisp exterior while preventing the patties from sticking to the skillet.
- Hamburger buns
The soft, toasted vessel that holds your creation; they should be sturdy enough to grip the burger without overwhelming it.
- Optional toppings
Sliced tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and pickles let you customize each bite with freshness, crunch, and tang.
HOW TO MAKE WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Get ready to transform these simple ingredients into mouthwatering, restaurant-quality chicken burgers right at home. Follow the step-by-step guide below, and you’ll be biting into cheesy, spinach-studded patties in no time.
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, grated white cheddar cheese, and bread crumbs.
Gently break up the chicken with a spatula so the cheese and spinach distribute evenly, ensuring each patty bursts with color and flavor.
2. Add in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix all the ingredients until well combined.
This tactile method ensures the seasonings coat every bit of chicken, giving you consistently seasoned patties.
3. Divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape each portion into a patty, making sure they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
Press gently in the center of each patty to prevent bulging as they cook, keeping them flat and restaurant-worthy.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers and is hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between each.
Overcrowding the pan will lead to steaming rather than searing, so give each patty room to brown.
5. Cook the patties for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are no longer pink inside.
Use a meat thermometer to check the center; you want that perfectly juicy texture without undercooking.
6. While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns in the oven or on a separate skillet until golden brown.
This adds crunch and prevents sogginess when you assemble the burgers.
7. Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling the burgers.
Resting lets the juices redistribute, ensuring each bite stays moist and flavorful.
8. To assemble, place each patty on the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Add your choice of toppings such as tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and pickles. Finish with the top halves of the buns.
9. Serve the burgers warm and enjoy!
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Once you’ve mastered the art of building these mouthwatering burgers, it’s time to think about presentation and pairings. Whether you’re hosting a backyard gathering or making a cozy family dinner, these ideas will elevate your burger experience:
- Gourmet Slaw Side
Serve alongside a crisp slaw made with cabbage, carrots, and a light vinaigrette. The bright, tangy crunch complements the creamy burger and adds a refreshing contrast.
- Sweet Potato Fries
Oven-baked or air-fried sweet potato fries deliver a perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. Sprinkle them with smoked paprika and sea salt for an added flavor boost.
- Avocado Spread
Instead of mayo, whip up a quick avocado spread with lime juice, cilantro, and garlic. It brings a silky richness that pairs brilliantly with the tangy white cheddar.
- Iced Lemonade or Iced Tea
A cold, citrusy drink helps cut through the richness of the burger, cleansing the palate for every next delicious bite.
HOW TO STORE WHITE CHEDDAR SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS
Perfect for meal prep or midweek dinners, these chicken burgers can be made in advance and stored without losing their savory appeal. Follow these tips to keep them fresh and flavorful:
- Refrigerating Patties
After shaping the patties, place them on a parchment-lined tray, cover tightly with plastic wrap, and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. This makes last-minute cooking a breeze.
- Freezing for Later
Lay the shaped patties flat on a baking sheet, freeze for 1 hour, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
- Storing Cooked Burgers
Let cooked patties cool completely, then layer between parchment paper in an airtight container. They’ll last 3–4 days in the fridge and reheat beautifully in a skillet or microwave.
- Buns and Toppings
Keep buns in their original packaging at room temperature for up to 3 days. Store sliced produce in separate, sealed containers to maintain crispness.
CONCLUSION
We’ve covered everything you need to know to make irresistibly juicy White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers from scratch—an easy, beginner-friendly recipe that’s big on flavor and perfect for lunch or dinner. With simple ingredients like ground chicken, fresh spinach, and melty white cheddar cheese, this burger offers a satisfying crunch, a creamy cheese pull, and a wave of savory goodness in every bite. You’ve learned how to bind the patties with breadcrumbs, season them with garlic and Dijon mustard, and cook them to a safe internal temperature of 165°F, all while achieving a perfect golden crust. You also have tips for customizing your toppings and serving with sides that elevate each bite, plus storage methods that let you prepare in advance or save leftovers without sacrificing taste. Feel free to print this article and save it for later—it’s your go-to guide for quick reference whenever burger night rolls around. Don’t forget, there’s an FAQ section waiting below if you have any burning questions about technique, substitutions, or troubleshooting.
I’d love to hear how your White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers turn out! Drop a comment if you try this recipe, share any tweaks you made, or ask for advice if you hit a snag in the kitchen. Your feedback and questions help me make future recipes even better, and it’s always a treat to swap cooking stories with fellow home chefs. Happy cooking!
White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers
Description
These juicy chicken burgers are packed with fresh spinach and melted white cheddar, delivering a satisfying crunch and creamy cheese pull in every bite—perfect for a flavorful lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
Instructions
-
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, grated white cheddar cheese, and bread crumbs.
-
Add in the minced garlic, Dijon mustard, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands to mix all the ingredients until well combined.
-
Divide the mixture into four equal parts and shape each portion into a patty, making sure they are evenly sized for uniform cooking.
-
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the skillet, leaving space between each.
-
Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are no longer pink inside.
-
While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns in the oven or on a separate skillet until golden brown.
-
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes before assembling the burgers.
-
To assemble, place each patty on the bottom halves of the toasted buns. Add your choice of toppings such as tomatoes, red onion, lettuce, and pickles. Finish with the top halves of the buns.
-
Serve the burgers warm and enjoy!
Note
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option if desired.
- To make the burgers spicier, add a pinch of red chili flakes to the mixture.
- Consider using whole wheat or brioche buns for added flavor and texture.
- These burgers can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before cooking.
- For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free bread crumbs or omit the bread crumbs altogether.
