If you’re craving a burger that packs a punch and bursts with vibrant flavors, you’ve got to try this Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe. These patties are the perfect marriage of tender ground chicken and fiery chili heat, balanced with savory spices and a touch of tangy sriracha. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend cookout, these burgers are guaranteed to sizzle your taste buds and leave you longing for just one more bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe lies in its simplicity and thoughtful selection of ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role in creating a patty that is juicy, flavorful, and just the right amount of spicy. From the ground chicken that forms the meaty base to the fresh chopped chili that brings the heat, every ingredient is essential to the burger’s irresistible character.
- Ground chicken (1 pound): Provides a lean, tender base that absorbs all the spicy and savory flavors wonderfully.
- Small red chili (finely chopped) or chili flakes (1 teaspoon): Adds a lively kick of heat that defines the burger’s signature spiciness.
- Garlic cloves (2, minced): Infuses a deep, aromatic flavor that complements the chili beautifully.
- Green onions (1/4 cup, chopped): Offer freshness and a subtle sharpness that brightens the mix.
- Soy sauce (1 tablespoon): Brings an umami-rich saltiness that deepens the burger’s taste profile.
- Sriracha or chili sauce (1 tablespoon): Enhances the heat and adds a touch of tangy sweetness.
- Ground cumin (1/2 teaspoon): Sprinkles in a warm earthiness that complements the chili’s spiciness.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon) and black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Season the patties perfectly without overpowering the chili flavor.
- Breadcrumbs (1/4 cup, optional): Help bind the mixture for a firmer patty that holds its shape while cooking.
- Oil (1 tablespoon, for cooking): Ensures a golden, crispy crust on the patties when cooked.
- Burger buns (4, toasted): Provide the perfect vehicle for holding all these spicy, savory components together.
How to Make Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Start by combining the ground chicken, finely chopped chili, minced garlic, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sriracha, ground cumin, salt, black pepper, and optional breadcrumbs in a large bowl. The trick here is to mix gently—overworking the meat can lead to dense patties, but you want all those delicious flavors evenly distributed.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and carefully shape each into a round patty. Try to keep them about the same thickness to ensure they cook evenly. This step lets you get hands-on and form those little spicy discs of deliciousness that will soon be sizzling away.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat the oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden-brown crust that locks in the juicy interior. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly safe and fully cooked burgers.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While your patties are finishing, toast the burger buns to add a little crunch and warmth. Toasted buns complement the spicy patties by adding texture contrast and help prevent the buns from getting soggy from any juicy toppings.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Now comes the fun part—layer your patty on the bottom bun, pile on your favorite toppings, and crown it with the top bun. Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
How to Serve Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh and creamy garnishes balances the heat and adds textural variety. Slices of creamy avocado offer cooling richness, while crisp lettuce and ripe tomato introduce crunch and juiciness. Pickled onions deliver a tangy bite that plays beautifully against the spicy patties. A dollop of spicy mayo or smooth yogurt sauce can tame the heat when needed and make every bite luxuriously smooth.
Side Dishes
The perfect sides can elevate your Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe meal to a full celebration. Consider serving them with classic crispy fries or potato wedges for that comforting familiarity. For something lighter and fresh, a vibrant coleslaw or a tangy cucumber salad pairs well to cool the palate. If you love bold flavors, spicy roasted corn or grilled vegetables complement the chili theme wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to shake things up, try wrapping the Hot Chili Chicken Burgers in large lettuce leaves for a low-carb twist that’s still packed with flavor. Alternatively, serve the patties over a bed of fragrant rice, garnished with chopped herbs and lime wedges for an Asian-inspired bowl. For a more casual vibe, slice the burgers into sliders, perfect for parties or gatherings where everyone can snack and mingle.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have some patties leftover? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keeping them chilled properly ensures they remain juicy and flavorful. When you’re ready to enjoy, you can reheat them gently for a quick meal.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freezing until firm, then transferring to a freezer-safe bag. This method prevents them from sticking together. Frozen patties will keep well for up to 3 months, giving you a handy spicy meal ready whenever you crave it.
Reheating
To reheat, heat a skillet over medium-low heat and warm the patties for several minutes on each side until heated through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture firm and delicious. Toast the buns fresh and add your favorite toppings for that just-made feeling.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of chili in this recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with jalapeño, serrano, or even a milder chili depending on your heat preference. Just adjust the quantity to keep the spice level enjoyable for you.
Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs in the patties?
Breadcrumbs help bind the patties so they hold their shape, especially if your ground chicken is very lean. However, if you prefer a denser, meatier burger, you can skip them altogether.
Can I grill these burgers outside?
Yes! Grilling these patties outdoors adds a wonderful smoky flavor and charred crust that pairs perfectly with the chili spices. Just watch them closely to avoid flare-ups from the oil and keep the heat moderate.
What are some good alternatives for the spicy mayo topping?
If you want something with less kick but still creamy, plain yogurt mixed with a little lime juice and salt works well. You can also try ranch dressing or avocado crema for a cooling contrast.
How do I make this burger less spicy for kids or sensitive eaters?
Simply reduce or omit the chili and sriracha, and rely more on garlic, cumin, and soy sauce for flavor. You can also serve the spicy sauce on the side so everyone can adjust their own heat level.
Final Thoughts
This Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe is a true gem for anyone looking to spice up their burger routine with exciting flavors and simple ingredients. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and endlessly versatile, making it a recipe you’ll want to come back to again and again. Give it a try and watch how these fiery, juicy patties become an instant favorite at your table.
Print
Hot Chili Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Description
These Hot Chili Chicken Burgers feature flavorful ground chicken patties seasoned with red chili, garlic, green onions, soy sauce, and sriracha for a spicy kick. Perfectly cooked on a stovetop or grill pan, they are juicy and tender with a hint of Asian-inspired flavors, served on toasted burger buns with optional fresh toppings like avocado, lettuce, and spicy mayo.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 small red chili, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon chili flakes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sriracha or chili sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional for binding)
- 1 tablespoon oil (for cooking)
- 4 burger buns, toasted
Optional Toppings
- Sliced avocado
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Pickled onions
- Spicy mayo or yogurt sauce
Instructions
- Mix the Patty Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped red chili, minced garlic, chopped green onions, soy sauce, sriracha, ground cumin, salt, pepper, and breadcrumbs if using. Mix gently until just combined to avoid compacting the meat.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the chicken mixture evenly into 4 portions and shape each into a patty about 3/4 inch thick.
- Cook the Patties: Heat oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Place the patties in the pan and cook for 5 to 6 minutes on each side or until golden brown and thoroughly cooked. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) to ensure safety.
- Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking or after removing them, toast the burger buns lightly to add texture and warmth.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place each patty on a toasted bun and add your preferred optional toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, pickled onions, or a drizzle of spicy mayo or yogurt sauce. Serve hot for best flavor.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of chili or sriracha to control the spice level according to your preference.
- For a low-carb alternative, wrap the cooked patties in large lettuce leaves instead of using burger buns.
- These patties can also be served over rice as a flavorful main dish.
- If you’re using breadcrumbs, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs to make the recipe gluten free if needed.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Asian-Inspired, American
