Description
These White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions offer a flavorful twist on classic chicken burgers, featuring juicy ground chicken mixed with sweet caramelized onions, sharp white cheddar, and a hint of spicy Calabrian chili paste. Perfectly grilled and assembled with smashed avocados, arugula, and mayo on toasted buns, they make a delicious and satisfying meal in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Burgers
- 1 pound lean ground chicken or turkey
- ½ cup prepared caramelized onions
- 5 ounces white cheddar, ¼ inch dice
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1-2 teaspoons Calabrian chili paste (or sambal)
For Serving
- Burger buns
- Smashed avocados
- Arugula
- Mayo
Instructions
- Prepare Patties: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, caramelized onions, diced white cheddar, kosher salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and Calabrian chili paste. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Cover and refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes to help them firm up before grilling.
- Preheat Grill: Heat your grill to 475ºF. While the grill is heating, oil the grill grates to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Grill Patties: Place the chilled patties on the hot grill. Cook for approximately 4-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 155ºF. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to ensure juicy and safely cooked burgers.
- Toast Buns: While the patties finish cooking, toast the burger buns on the grill until lightly browned and warmed through, enhancing their flavor and texture.
- Assemble Burgers: Spread mayonnaise on the toasted buns, then layer with arugula, smashed avocados, and the grilled white cheddar chicken patties. Top with the other half of the bun and serve immediately with your favorite sides.
Notes
- Using ground turkey instead of chicken is a great alternative if preferred.
- Make sure the internal temperature of the patties reaches 155ºF for safe consumption.
- Calabrian chili paste adds mild to medium heat; adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance or substitute with sambal for a different kick.
- Caramelized onions can be prepared in advance or purchased pre-made to save time.
- For juicier burgers, avoid overhandling the meat when forming patties.
