Description
These Healthy Chicken Burgers are made with extra lean ground chicken breast and wholesome ingredients like whole wheat breadcrumbs and fresh herbs. They offer a delicious, lean alternative to traditional beef burgers, perfect for a nutritious and satisfying meal. Whether pan-fried or grilled, these burgers have a flavorful smoky touch from smoked paprika and a moist, tender texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken breast (extra lean)
- 1/2 cup finely chopped red onion
- 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/4 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
For Cooking and Serving
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, red onion, parsley, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and salt. This ensures all flavors and seasonings are well incorporated.
- Mix Gently: Mix all ingredients until just combined, taking care not to overmix which can make the burgers tough.
- Check Consistency: Assess the mixture’s moisture level. It should be moist but hold together; add more breadcrumbs if too wet or a bit of olive oil or water if too dry.
- Optional Rest: Cover the mixture and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and improve texture.
- Divide Mixture: Portion the chicken mixture into four equal parts for uniform patties.
- Shape Patties: Form each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick and slightly wider than the buns to accommodate shrinkage during cooking.
- Create Thumbprint: Make a shallow indentation in the center of each patty to promote even cooking and prevent puffing.
- Optional Chill: Place patties on parchment paper, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to help them firm up for cooking.
- Pan-Frying: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5-7 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
- Grilling: Alternatively, preheat the grill to medium heat and grill patties for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
- Rest: Remove burgers from heat and let rest a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute within the patties.
- Assemble: Toast the whole wheat buns lightly, add your preferred condiments, then layer on the chicken patties along with any desired toppings.
- Serve: Serve the burgers immediately while warm and enjoy your healthy, flavorful meal!
Notes
- To keep burgers moist, avoid overmixing the chicken mixture.
- The thumbprint in each patty helps prevent the burger from puffing up during cooking.
- Resting the patties before cooking helps them hold their shape better.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken burgers reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Whole wheat buns add extra fiber and nutrients compared to traditional white buns.
- These burgers can be customized with toppings like lettuce, tomato, avocado, or low-fat cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: healthy chicken burgers, lean chicken burger, easy chicken burger recipe, whole wheat buns, healthy grilling, low fat chicken burgers
