There’s something undeniably comforting about a juicy burger, but lately, I’ve been craving something a little lighter—without sacrificing any of that rich, satisfying flavor. Enter these White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers, a delicious twist on the classic that’s packed with fresh greens and melty cheese. Picture this: a golden-brown patty, crisp on the outside and tender within, with pockets of gooey cheddar and flecks of vibrant spinach. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend cookout.

I first stumbled upon this recipe when trying to sneak more greens into my family’s meals (a never-ending mission, as any parent knows). To my delight, even my pickiest eater couldn’t resist the cheesy goodness hiding inside. Now, these burgers are a regular in our rotation—simple enough for busy evenings but special enough to serve to guests. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring these flavorful burgers to life:

• 1 lb ground chicken – I prefer thigh meat for extra juiciness, but breast works too.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped – Packed with nutrients and a mild, earthy flavor.
• 1/2 cup shredded white cheddar – Sharp and creamy, it melts beautifully into the patty.
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs – Helps bind the mixture together (panko works great for extra crunch).
• 1 egg – The glue that holds everything in place.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Because everything’s better with garlic.
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle tangy depth.
• 1/2 tsp smoked paprika – A hint of warmth and smokiness.
• Salt and pepper – To taste, of course.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – For cooking those patties to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s turn these ingredients into something magical:

1. Prep the spinach: Give your spinach a fine chop—you want it small enough to blend seamlessly into the patties but still offer little bursts of green.
2. Mix it all together: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, spinach, cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Dijon, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Use your hands (or a fork) to gently mix everything. Overworking the meat can make the burgers dense, so a light touch is key.
3. Form the patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into 1-inch-thick patties. Pro tip: Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb—this helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
4. Cook to golden perfection: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the patties and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F. If you’re grilling, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
5. Let them rest: Transfer the burgers to a plate and let them rest for a few minutes. This keeps them juicy when you take that first bite!

And just like that, you’ve got a batch of tender, cheesy, spinach-packed chicken burgers ready to enjoy. But before you dig in, let’s talk about how to make them your own…

Pro Tips, Variations, and Substitutions

These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are wonderfully versatile, so don’t be afraid to make them your own! Here are a few ways to customize them:

• Cheese Swap: If white cheddar isn’t your thing, try sharp cheddar, pepper jack, or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
• Greens Galore: Swap spinach for kale, arugula, or even finely chopped Swiss chard—just make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture.
• Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to the mix for a little kick.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of traditional breadcrumbs for a lighter, gluten-free version.

What to Serve With Your Chicken Burgers

These juicy, cheesy burgers pair beautifully with a variety of sides. Here are a few of our favorites:

• Classic Fries: Crispy, golden fries are always a winner.
• Sweet Potato Wedges: A slightly sweet and smoky alternative.
• Light Salad: A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette keeps things fresh.
• Grilled Veggies: Zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add a healthy, colorful touch.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers (lucky you!), here’s how to keep them tasting great:

• Refrigerate: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes per side, or pop them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well—just keep an eye on cooking time, as it can dry out faster.

Can I make these ahead of time?
Yes! Shape the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze uncooked patties for later.

What’s the best way to keep the burgers from falling apart?
Make sure your mixture isn’t too wet (squeeze out excess spinach moisture!) and chill the patties for 15–20 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape.

Can I grill these instead of pan-frying?
Definitely! Just oil the grill grates well and cook over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes per side.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so comforting about biting into a juicy, cheesy chicken burger—especially when it’s packed with fresh spinach and melty white cheddar. Whether you’re serving these up for a weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout, they’re sure to be a hit. The best part? They’re easy to tweak based on what you have on hand, so don’t be afraid to get creative. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!