White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers

Introduction

White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers bring a fresh and flavorful twist to your typical burger night, combining lean ground chicken with vibrant spinach and the sharp creaminess of white cheddar. Each patty sizzles on the skillet, infused with garlic and spices, then gets topped with melty cheese and served on a toasted bun with your favorite fixings. Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or grilling out with friends, these burgers offer a wholesome yet satisfying bite.

I craft these burgers by mixing the seasoned chicken with finely chopped spinach, folding in the ingredients until everything’s perfectly blended. As they cook, the aroma of garlic and herbs fills the kitchen. I flip each patty just as the edges caramelize, then lay slices of white cheddar over top, letting it melt into every crevice. When I build the burgers—layered with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato, and maybe a smear of garlic aioli—they look just as good as they taste.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can serve the patties on a brioche bun, in a lettuce wrap, or even sliced over a salad. These White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers aren’t just a healthy dinner option—they’re a flavorful, feel-good meal that turns any weeknight into something special.

Perfect for:

• Weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping
• High-protein lunches
• Healthier burger nights

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Juicy and Flavorful – These burgers are anything but dry. The combination of lean ground chicken, finely chopped spinach, and sharp white cheddar cheese locks in moisture while adding bold, savory notes. Each patty is tender, cheesy, and full of flavor, making every bite the most memorable of all.
• Quick and Easy – Whether you’re short on time or just want a no-fuss meal, these burgers deliver. With just a handful of simple ingredients and under 30 minutes from prep to plate, they’re ideal for weeknights, lazy weekends, or impromptu dinners with friends.
• Packed with Protein – These burgers are a great source of lean protein, making them a satisfying choice to power you through your day. They’re perfect for muscle recovery after a workout, as a hearty meal prep option, or just to keep you full longer without the sluggishness.
• Healthier Option – Made with nutrient-rich spinach and lean chicken instead of red meat, these burgers are a lighter alternative to classic beef burgers. Plus, they offer a dose of greens without compromising taste, which makes them great for adults and kids alike.
• Customizable – However you serve them, they shine. Go traditional with a toasted bun, melted cheese, and crisp lettuce—or opt for a low-carb wrap, lettuce bun, or serve them over a grain bowl or salad. Add sauces, spreads, or extra veggies to make them your own.
• Great for Meal Prep – These burgers freeze and reheat beautifully, making them a meal-prepper’s dream. Cook a batch in advance and you’ll always have a protein-packed meal ready to go.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 25–30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10–15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 10–15 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: Approximately 300–350 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Iron: 15% DV, Vitamin A: 30% DV

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
• ¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (for flavor boost)
• 1 tablespoon breadcrumbs (for added structure, if needed)
• Red pepper flakes (for heat)

Ingredient Highlights

• Ground Chicken: Lean and versatile, it forms the flavorful base of the burgers.
• White Cheddar: Adds bold, melty flavor and balances the mild chicken.
• Spinach: Sneaks in extra nutrients without overwhelming the taste.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Make the Burger Patties:

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. If needed, add breadcrumbs for better texture. Mix gently until everything is just combined.
2. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a patty about ¾-inch thick.

Cook the Burgers:

3. Heat the Pan or Grill: Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and add olive oil if using a pan.
4. Cook the Patties: Cook the burgers for 5–6 minutes per side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a golden-brown crust.

Serve and Enjoy:

5. Assemble Your Burger: Serve the patties on toasted buns with your favorite toppings, or go bunless with lettuce wraps or salad bowls. Add sauces, pickles, tomatoes, or avocado as desired.

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How to Serve

Serve White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers your way:

• On Buns: Add crisp lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a tangy sauce.
• Lettuce Wraps: Keep it low-carb and fresh with a large leaf of romaine or iceberg.
• Over Greens: Create a high-protein salad bowl with your favorite veggies and dressing.
• With Sides: Pair with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or roasted veggies for a complete meal.

Additional Tips

• Avoid Overmixing: Mix the ingredients just enough to combine to keep the burgers tender.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check for doneness at 165°F to ensure food safety without overcooking.
• Customize the Cheese: Try pepper jack, mozzarella, or gouda for different flavor profiles.
• Add a Kick: Mix in jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy version.
• Double the Batch: Make extra patties and freeze them for quick meals later.

Recipe Variations

• Mediterranean Style – Give your burgers a Mediterranean flair by mixing in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta cheese, and a sprinkle of dried oregano. Serve with tzatziki sauce or inside pita bread for an extra authentic touch.
• Buffalo Style – Bring some heat by stirring in a few tablespoons of buffalo sauce into the chicken mixture. Top with crumbled blue cheese or a drizzle of ranch dressing for that classic buffalo wing flavor in burger form.
• Tex-Mex Version – Add a bold twist with ground cumin, smoked paprika, and freshly chopped cilantro mixed into the patty. Serve with sliced avocado, salsa, or even a spoonful of guacamole for a flavorful fusion.
• Pesto Burgers – Mix a tablespoon or two of your favorite basil pesto into the burger mixture for a fresh, herb-forward flavor. Pair with sliced tomatoes and mozzarella for a caprese-inspired chicken burger.
• Mushroom & Swiss – Fold in finely chopped sautéed mushrooms and swap the cheddar for Swiss cheese. The earthy mushrooms and melty cheese create a cozy, savory burger experience.
• Spicy Jalapeño Popper – Add diced jalapeños and a bit of cream cheese into the mix, or stuff the center with cream cheese for a spicy surprise in every bite. Top with a few jalapeño slices for an extra kick.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing (Uncooked): For ultimate convenience, form the raw chicken patties and wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or parchment paper. Place the wrapped patties in a zip-top freezer bag or airtight container and freeze for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight for best results.
• Freezing (Cooked): If you’ve already cooked the burgers and want to save leftovers, allow them to cool completely first. Wrap each patty individually in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. Reheat straight from frozen or thaw overnight, then warm in the microwave, oven, or skillet until heated through.
• Storage (Refrigerator): Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Perfect for meal prep—just grab and reheat for a quick, protein-packed lunch or dinner.

Special Equipment

You only need a few basic tools for this recipe:

• Mixing bowl
• Knife and cutting board
• Skillet, grill pan, or outdoor grill
• Spatula
• Meat thermometer (recommended)

FAQ Section

Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, just thaw it and squeeze out the excess moisture before adding it to the mix.

Can I cook these in the oven?
Absolutely. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I keep chicken burgers from falling apart?
If the mix feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs or chill the patties before cooking.

Are these burgers gluten-free?
Yes—just skip the breadcrumbs or use a gluten-free version and check your cheese for additives.

Conclusion

Whip up White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers and enjoy a wholesome and savory meal that balances flavor and nutrition. Load them with fresh spinach, bold white cheddar, and lean ground chicken to create a satisfying option for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Delight kids and adults alike with their juicy texture and cheesy goodness—they’re a must-have addition to your recipe collection.

Get creative by customizing these burgers with your favorite toppings, buns, or sauces for a personal twist. Enjoy them on a toasted bun, in a lettuce wrap, or over a bed of greens for a lighter take.

Grill a batch today, fill your kitchen with their irresistible aroma, and share the joy. Snap a photo of your masterpiece and share it on Instagram—tag me so we can celebrate your cooking success. Happy grilling!