If you’re looking to shake up your burger nights with something juicy, crispy, and finger-licking delicious, this Smash Chicken Burger Recipe absolutely delivers. Combining the magic of smash-style cooking with the lean tenderness of ground chicken, these burgers are crisp-edged, cheesy, and irresistibly flavorful! In just 20 minutes, you’ll have golden patties sandwiched between soft buns and all your favorite toppings—it’s a mouthwatering upgrade you’ll crave after the very first bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Smash Chicken Burger Recipe is in its lineup of humble, everyday ingredients that each pull their weight for taste and texture. From succulent ground chicken to smoky spices and crisp veggies, every addition brings out the best of this burger experience.
- Ground Chicken (1 lb): The star of the show—opt for ground thigh if you prefer juicier burgers.
- Mayonnaise (1 tablespoon): Mixed right into the burger, it keeps the patties moist and tender throughout cooking.
- Dijon Mustard (1 teaspoon): Adds a gentle tang that makes the flavors pop in every bite.
- Garlic Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Gives a subtle aromatic depth and savory note.
- Onion Powder (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts umami and rounds out the flavor beautifully.
- Smoked Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Brings a hint of smokiness, making these burgers taste grilled—no grill required!
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for enhancing all those incredible flavors.
- Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Gives the patties just a little kick and warmth.
- Olive Oil or Butter (1 tablespoon, for cooking): Helps bring that irresistible, golden brown crust to life.
- Burger Buns (4, toasted): Pillowy soft and a must for assembling the perfect burger.
- Cheddar Cheese (4 slices): Melts to gooey perfection over those sizzling patties.
- Lettuce Leaves: For crunch and a burst of freshness.
- Tomato Slices: Juicy and sweet, they balance the rich flavors of the patty and cheese.
- Pickles: Zippy and tangy, they’re essential for a classic burger bite.
- Sliced Red Onion (optional): Adds sharpness and color—but totally up to you!
- Mayonnaise or Burger Sauce (for serving): The finishing touch for extra creaminess and pizzazz.
How to Make Smash Chicken Burger Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Chicken Patty Base
Start by gently combining the ground chicken with mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large mixing bowl. Use a light touch—overmixing will lead to dense patties. You’re looking for a just-combined mixture where everything is evenly seasoned but still tender and loose.
Step 2: Shape and Prep
Divide your chicken mixture into 4 equal balls. Don’t compact them too much! Looser balls mean juicier burgers and that signature smash-style crispiness around the edges once they hit the hot pan.
Step 3: Cook and Smash
Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat, and add your olive oil or butter. Wait until it’s shimmering, then lay the chicken balls onto the surface. Immediately, use a flat spatula or burger press to smash each ball into a patty about half an inch thick. This allows those crunchy edges to form, locking in all the savory juices. Let cook for 3–4 minutes without disturbing them—patience is key for golden crust!
Step 4: Flip, Cheese, and Finish
Once those edges are dark and crisp, flip each patty and immediately crown them with slices of cheddar cheese. Give them another 3–4 minutes to cook through (internal temp: 165°F), letting the cheese bubble and melt luxuriously over the top.
Step 5: Toast and Assemble
While your patties finish up, quickly toast your burger buns in the same skillet or in a toaster. Now comes the fun part—assemble each burger with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, sharp pickles, crunchy red onion (if using), and a generous smear of mayonnaise or burger sauce. Slide a cheesy chicken patty inside, sandwich it all together, and get ready for the most satisfying bite ever!
How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger Recipe
Garnishes
This Smash Chicken Burger Recipe shines with a handful of thoughtfully chosen garnishes. Try a leaf of buttery Bibb lettuce, a thick beefsteak tomato slice, or a playful stack of spicy pickles. Sprinkle a dusting of smoked paprika on top if you love extra color and aroma, or tuck in crunchy fried onions for an indulgent upgrade.
Side Dishes
Keep things classic with hot, crispy French fries, or lighten it up with a zesty coleslaw. Sweet potato fries, onion rings, or a fresh corn salad are all fantastic companions that make burger night feel special without getting complicated.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Smash Chicken Burger Recipe slider-style for parties, or double up on patties for a jaw-dropping stacked version. For a healthful twist, wrap the burgers in iceberg lettuce leaves in place of the bun, or serve open-faced with a salad for a knife-and-fork meal. If you feel adventurous, drizzle a little hot honey over the patties for a sweet-savory surprise!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you end up with extra patties, cool them completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the toppings and buns separate to maintain the best texture and freshness until you’re ready to reassemble and enjoy more Smash Chicken Burgers.
Freezing
Want to get ahead? Cooked chicken patties freeze beautifully. Allow them to cool, wrap each patty tightly in plastic, and then place in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months—perfect for speedy meals on busy nights. Just remember to label and date your stash!
Reheating
Reheat frozen or chilled patties in a hot nonstick skillet for a few minutes per side until they’ve warmed through. A quick zap in the microwave also works if you’re in a hurry, but the skillet method helps restore some of that irresistible crispiness you love from this Smash Chicken Burger Recipe.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well, offering similar tenderness and flavor. Just be sure not to overcook, as turkey (especially white meat) can dry out quickly—opt for ground thigh if possible for extra juiciness.
What kind of cheese melts best on these burgers?
Cheddar is a star for its classic melt and sharp flavor, but feel free to explore! Gouda, Swiss, provolone, or even pepper jack all add their own melty, gooey twist to your Smash Chicken Burger Recipe.
How can I make my chicken burgers extra juicy?
The combo of mayonnaise in the mix and using ground chicken thigh keeps these patties especially juicy. Take care not to overcook them, and avoid pressing down after the initial smash, so those tasty juices stay locked in!
Is it OK to prepare the chicken mixture ahead of time?
Yes, you can mix the chicken burger base a few hours in advance and refrigerate, which actually helps the flavors mingle. Just shape and cook the patties right before eating so they stay light and fresh.
Are these burgers kid-friendly?
Definitely! The simple spices and creamy touches make them appealing to younger palates, and you can easily control the toppings. For picky eaters, leave out the optional onions or add a bit of ketchup for a familiar favorite.
Final Thoughts
This Smash Chicken Burger Recipe brings big, bold flavor to your dinner table with minimal effort and maximum reward. Whether you’re cooking for family or friends, these burgers are a surefire crowd-pleaser that’ll have everyone asking for seconds—don’t hesitate, give it a try and watch the smiles multiply!
Print
Smash Chicken Burger Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Learn how to make delicious Smash Chicken Burgers at home with this easy recipe. These juicy ground chicken burgers are seasoned to perfection and topped with your favorite fixings for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Main Burger Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Cooking and Serving:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter for cooking
- 4 burger buns (toasted)
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Sliced red onion (optional)
- Mayonnaise or burger sauce for serving
Instructions
- Mix Burger Ingredients: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Divide into 4 balls.
- Cook Patties: Heat a skillet, flatten chicken balls, cook for 3-4 mins. Flip, top with cheese, cook for another 3-4 mins or until cooked through.
- Assemble Burgers: Toast buns, assemble burgers with lettuce, tomato, pickles, onion, and sauce. Serve hot.
Notes
- You can double the patties for a stacked burger or make smaller sliders.
- Add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Ground chicken thigh will yield juicier patties.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
