Healthy White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

The first time I made these healthy white cheddar spinach chicken burgers, I was searching for something that felt indulgent but still fit into my clean-eating goals. Let me tell you, these burgers turned out to be the perfect balance of juicy chicken, creamy cheddar, and fresh spinach. They’re packed with flavor, super moist, and honestly so easy to whip together on a busy night. Plus, they’ve become a family favorite—my kids don’t even notice the spinach (score!). If you’ve been craving a better-for-you burger that doesn’t skimp on taste, you’re going to love this recipe.

What makes these burgers so special? For starters, the white cheddar melts into all the nooks and crannies, giving every bite a little burst of cheesy goodness. And the spinach? It adds a subtle freshness while boosting the nutritional profile. Whether you’re grilling these outdoors or cooking them on your stovetop, they’ll turn out perfectly juicy every time. They’re ideal for quick weeknight meals, but also fancy enough to serve at a casual backyard barbecue. Let’s jump right into why you’ll love these burgers!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: These burgers come together in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
• Simple Ingredients: Everything you need can be found in your pantry or at your local grocery store. No fancy ingredients required!
• Flavor-Packed: The combination of white cheddar, spinach, and chicken creates a juicy, cheesy burger with a hint of freshness.
• Healthy Alternative: These burgers are lower in fat than traditional beef burgers and packed with protein and nutrients.
• Kid-Friendly: Even picky eaters won’t notice the spinach, and the cheesy flavor is always a hit.

Unlike traditional burgers, these chicken patties stay incredibly moist thanks to the spinach and cheese. Plus, the seasoning blend ensures they’re anything but bland. Whether you’re looking for a healthier burger option or just want to try something new, this recipe is bound to become a regular in your rotation.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients for a flavorful and healthy burger. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Ground Chicken: Lean ground chicken works best for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey instead.
• Fresh Spinach: Chopped spinach adds moisture and nutrition. If you’re short on time, you can use frozen spinach—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
• White Cheddar Cheese: Shredded white cheddar melts beautifully into the patties, adding creamy, cheesy goodness.
• Breadcrumbs: Regular or panko breadcrumbs help bind the mixture together. For a gluten-free option, use almond flour.
• Egg: Acts as a binder to hold the patties together.
• Garlic Powder: Adds depth of flavor without overpowering the other ingredients.
• Salt and Pepper: Season to taste for a balanced flavor.
• Olive Oil: For cooking the patties and keeping them moist.
• Burger Buns: Whole grain, brioche, or gluten-free buns—choose what works best for you!
• Toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, or even more cheese—customize to your heart’s content!

These ingredients are easy to find and even easier to customize. Feel free to make substitutions based on your dietary preferences or what you have in your fridge.

Equipment Needed

• Mixing Bowl: For combining the patty ingredients.
• Non-Stick Skillet or Grill: Either works great for cooking the patties. A cast iron skillet is ideal for even heat distribution.
• Spatula: To flip the patties without breaking them apart.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: For precise measurements.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping spinach and other toppings.

If you don’t have a grill, no worries! These burgers cook up beautifully on the stove. And if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, a regular frying pan will do the trick.

Preparation Method

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine 1 lb (450g) ground chicken, 1 cup (30g) fresh spinach, finely chopped, 1/2 cup (60g) shredded white cheddar cheese, 1/4 cup (30g) breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper.
2. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the patties dense.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty about 1 inch thick.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat and add 1 tbsp olive oil. Once hot, add the patties.
5. Cook for 4-5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). The patties should be golden brown and firm to the touch.
6. Toast your burger buns lightly on the skillet or grill for added flavor.
7. Assemble the burgers by placing the cooked patties on the buns and adding your favorite toppings.

That’s it! You’ve got yourself delicious, healthy white cheddar spinach chicken burgers ready to enjoy.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overmix: Keep the mixture just combined to ensure the patties stay tender.
• Check the temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patties are cooked through without drying out.
• Rest the patties: Let them sit for 2-3 minutes after cooking to retain their juices.
• Use fresh spinach: Fresh spinach works better than frozen for texture. If using frozen, thoroughly squeeze out excess moisture.
• Customize the seasoning: Add paprika or Italian seasoning for a flavor twist.

These tips will ensure your burgers turn out perfect every single time!

Variations & Adaptations

• Gluten-Free: Use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
• Low Carb: Serve the patties on lettuce wraps or over a salad instead of buns.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne to the patty mixture.
• Cheese Swap: Try mozzarella or pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground chicken with a plant-based protein like chickpeas or lentils.

I’ve tried the spicy variation myself, and let me tell you—it’s a game-changer!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these burgers warm, straight off the grill or skillet. Pair them with a side of sweet potato fries, a green salad, or even a refreshing cucumber yogurt sauce. For drinks, iced tea or sparkling water with lemon is a perfect match.

To store leftovers, wrap the cooked patties tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes, or on the stovetop to keep them juicy. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months—just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

Each burger is packed with protein, offering approximately 180 calories, 25g of protein, 8g of fat, and 3g of carbs (not including the bun or toppings). Spinach adds a boost of vitamins A and C, while white cheddar provides calcium and flavor. Plus, opting for chicken over beef reduces saturated fat without sacrificing taste.

Conclusion

These healthy white cheddar spinach chicken burgers are a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful, nutritious meal. With simple ingredients, quick prep, and endless customization options, they’re perfect for any occasion. I love how these burgers bring joy to the table without the guilt. Try them out, and let me know how you made them your own in the comments below!

Ready to give this recipe a shot? Fire up your skillet, grab some fresh spinach, and get cooking. Your taste buds will thank you!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works just as well and keeps the patties moist and flavorful.

What’s the best way to chop spinach for this recipe?

Wash the spinach thoroughly, pat dry, and chop finely with a sharp knife to ensure it blends well into the mixture.

Can I freeze these burgers?

Absolutely! Freeze the uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag.

Do I need to grease the skillet?

Yes, adding a little olive oil prevents sticking and helps the patties cook evenly.

What toppings go best with these burgers?

Toppings like avocado, lettuce, tomato, and onion pair perfectly with the cheesy, savory flavors of these burgers.

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