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Juicy White Cheddar Chicken Burgers

White Cheddar Spinach Chicken Burgers

Tender and juicy chicken burgers packed with fresh spinach and sharp white cheddar, served on a toasted brioche bun with a simple garlic aioli.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 770

Ingredients
  

  • 500 g chicken mince not too lean, 5-7% fat is ideal
  • 150 g fresh spinach finely chopped
  • 100 g mature white cheddar cheese grated
  • 1 small onion very finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 50 g panko breadcrumbs
  • 1 large free-range egg lightly beaten
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil for frying
  • 4 brioche burger buns
For the Simple Garlic Aioli
  • 100 g mayonnaise
  • 1 clove garlic crushed
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Spinach: Place the finely chopped fresh spinach in a large bowl. You don't need to cook it first; the heat from the burger as it cooks will wilt it perfectly. This method keeps things simple and retains more nutrients.
  2. Mix the Burger Ingredients: To the bowl with the spinach, add the chicken mince, grated white cheddar, finely diced onion, minced garlic, panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Combine Gently: Using your hands, mix everything together until just combined. It’s important not to overwork the mixture, as this can make the burgers tough. I find that using a light touch is what keeps them wonderfully tender.
  4. Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Lightly wet or oil your hands and shape each portion into a patty about 2cm thick. Place them on a plate or tray lined with baking parchment.
  5. Chill Time: This step is crucial! Place the patties in the refrigerator to chill for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour). This helps them firm up and hold their shape during cooking.
  6. Cook the Burgers: Heat the olive oil in a large non-stick frying pan over a medium heat. Carefully place the chilled patties in the pan, ensuring not to overcrowd it. Cook for 6-7 minutes on the first side, until a deep golden-brown crust has formed.
  7. Flip and Finish: Flip the burgers and cook for another 6-7 minutes on the second side, or until they are cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 74°C (165°F) to be safe. You can check the UK's Food Standards Agency guidelines for more on cooking poultry safely.
  8. Assemble: While the burgers rest for a minute, lightly toast your brioche buns. Mix the mayonnaise, crushed garlic, and lemon juice for the aioli. Spread the aioli on the buns, add the chicken patty, and top with your favourite salad leaves and a slice of tomato.

Notes

The 15-minute chill time is crucial for the patties to hold their shape during cooking. Do not skip this step!