White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

I’m so excited to share my White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe with you because it’s truly one of my favorite ways to enjoy a juicy, flavorful burger without the heaviness of beef. These burgers are packed with fresh spinach and the rich, tangy punch of white cheddar cheese, making every bite a delightful explosion of taste. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight meal or something special for a casual weekend gathering, this recipe ticks all the boxes for ease, flavor, and satisfaction.

Why You'll Love This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

What makes this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe stand out for me is the perfect balance of flavors. The white cheddar melts into pockets of creamy goodness inside each patty, while the fresh spinach adds a subtle earthiness and vibrant color that makes the burgers feel wholesome and fresh. The little zing from the Dijon mustard and the depth from the Worcestershire sauce round everything out beautifully, so it’s never boring or bland.

Another reason I adore this recipe is how easy it is to prepare. The ingredients come together in just minutes, and these burgers cook quickly on a skillet, which is perfect when you want something delicious on the table fast. Plus, the use of ground chicken keeps these burgers leaner but still super juicy—no dryness here! I’ve made these countless times, and they’ve always been a hit with my family and friends.

This recipe is incredibly versatile too. I’ve served these burgers at casual family dinners, summer parties, and even meal-prepped them for busy weeknights. They’re just as good with simple toppings or jazzed up with your favorite sauces and fresh veggies. If you love a burger that feels fresh, tasty, and a little bit different, this recipe will be your new go-to.

Ingredients You'll Need

The ingredients for this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe are straightforward but each one plays a crucial role in giving these burgers their fantastic texture, flavor, and color. From fresh spinach adding vibrancy to the creamy white cheddar bringing richness, every element is thoughtfully chosen.

• Ground chicken: The lean protein base that keeps these burgers juicy and tender without being heavy.
• Fresh spinach: Finely chopped to mingle well with the meat, it adds freshness, color, and a subtle nutritive boost.
• White cheddar cheese: Shredded for that melty, creamy texture and sharp flavor contrast against the chicken.
• Breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties and maintain firmness, but you can swap for gluten-free options if needed.
• Onion: Finely chopped to infuse a mild sweetness and depth into the burger mix.
• Garlic cloves: Minced for that classic savory punch that elevates every bite.
• Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy zip that livens up the overall flavor profile.
• Worcestershire sauce: Boosts umami and adds complexity to the mix.
• Salt and black pepper: Basic but vital seasonings to enhance all the other flavors.
• Olive oil: For cooking, it ensures a golden crust without sticking.
• Burger buns: Soft yet sturdy to hold all the juicy goodness and toppings together.
• Optional toppings: Lettuce, tomato slices, or extra cheese are wonderful for adding crunch, freshness, or extra indulgence.

Directions

Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon just until combined—make sure not to overmix, or the patties can become tough.

Step 2: Divide the mixture into four equal portions, then shape each portion into a neat, evenly-sized patty. I find that slightly pressing them to around ¾ inch thick helps them cook through evenly without drying out.

Step 3: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes per side. Keep a close eye on them, and flip gently only once, aiming for a beautiful golden crust. The internal temperature should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit (75 degrees Celsius) to ensure they are safe and juicy.

Step 4: If you like toasted buns (and who doesn’t?), toast them lightly either in the skillet or a toaster while the patties finish cooking. This adds a lovely crunch and keeps the buns from getting soggy.

Step 5: To assemble, place each cooked patty on a bun, add your favorite toppings—like crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, or a little extra cheese—and serve immediately while everything is warm and melty. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Servings and Timing

This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe makes 4 satisfying servings—perfect for a family dinner or a small gathering. Prep time is super quick, just about 10 minutes to chop, mix, and shape the patties. Cooking takes approximately 12 minutes total (6 minutes per side), so in under 25 minutes, you’ve got a complete meal ready to enjoy. There’s no need for resting time; I recommend serving these burgers hot off the skillet for the best texture and flavor.

How to Serve This White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe

When I serve these burgers, I love pairing them with sides that complement their fresh and cheesy character. Crispy oven-baked sweet potato fries or a simple side salad with a lemon vinaigrette keep the meal light and vibrant. For a bit more comfort food flair, creamy coleslaw or garlicky mashed potatoes are wonderful companions that soak up all those rich burger juices.

For presentation, I like layering on some crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices right on the burger to add that refreshing crunch and splash of color. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top makes it look even more inviting. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a little smear of aioli or your favorite burger sauce adds another tasty layer.

Drinks-wise, these chicken burgers are versatile. A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light lager beer pairs beautifully with the cheddar and spinach flavors. For non-alcoholic options, a sparkling lemonade or iced green tea feels refreshing and balances the richness perfectly. These burgers work for casual weeknights, weekend BBQs, or even a relaxed party platter served sliced as sliders—all served warm for the best flavor experience.

Variations

I love experimenting with this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe, tweaking it here and there to suit different tastes or dietary needs. For instance, if you want a bit more spice, adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or finely diced jalapeños to the mix amps up the flavor nicely. You can also swap white cheddar for pepper jack or mozzarella for a different cheese profile.

If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, this recipe is pretty adaptable. Using gluten-free breadcrumbs easily makes it gluten-free without losing texture. For a dairy-free twist, you can omit the cheese entirely or use a plant-based cheddar alternative. While truly vegan chicken burger substitutes require different bases, the spinach and seasoning idea can inspire delicious veggie patties using chickpeas or black beans instead.

In terms of cooking methods, I’ve grilled these patties outdoors during summer for a smoky char that’s hard to beat. Baking them in the oven at 375 degrees Fahrenheit for about 20 minutes is also convenient and yields juicy results if you want hands-off cooking. No matter how you prepare them, the flavors really shine through.

Storage and Reheating

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers (and sometimes I do, but usually not for long!), store the cooked chicken burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep well for up to 3 days. Using containers that seal tightly helps preserve moisture and prevent them from drying out. I recommend separating any buns and fresh toppings, storing those separately to keep them fresh and crisp.

Freezing

These chicken burgers freeze beautifully if you want to prep ahead. After cooking and cooling them completely, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or parchment paper, then place them all in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, I find gently warming the burgers in a skillet over medium-low heat works best to retain juiciness and bring back that lightly crisp exterior. You can also pop them in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for about 10 minutes. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to dry out the chicken and make the cheese less appealing. Toast the buns fresh or warm them separately just before serving to maintain a nice texture contrast.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works wonderfully as a lean alternative and will yield a similar texture. Just be sure to adjust cooking time slightly if the patties are thicker, and keep an eye on moisture levels, as turkey can sometimes be a tad drier.

Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs in the mixture?

Breadcrumbs act as a binder to help hold the patties together and provide some structure. If you prefer, you can substitute with gluten-free breadcrumbs, crushed crackers, or even oats, but skipping them altogether might make the patties fragile and prone to falling apart.

Can I prepare the patties in advance and freeze them raw?

Yes, you can shape the patties ahead of time and freeze them raw on a parchment-lined tray before transferring to a container. This makes cooking on demand super quick. Just be sure to cook them fully from frozen or thaw in the fridge beforehand for even cooking.

What are some good cheese alternatives if I don’t have white cheddar?

Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, Mozzarella, or even Gruyere work well in this recipe. The key is choosing a cheese that melts nicely and has enough flavor to complement the chicken and spinach without overpowering.

How can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?

For a vegan or vegetarian version, I suggest swapping ground chicken for mashed beans, lentils, or a plant-based meat substitute. Use vegan cheese and gluten-free breadcrumbs if needed. The flavorful mix of spinach, mustard, and Worcestershire sauce (look for vegan-friendly versions) can still shine in a veggie patty.

Conclusion

I truly hope you give this White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those dishes that feels special yet is so approachable to make at home. Every bite delivers a juicy, cheesy, and fresh experience that always leaves me smiling. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, these burgers are a delicious way to enjoy a classic favorite with a healthy, flavorful twist.

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