The White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger is a fresh, protein-rich twist on a classic. Combining tender ground chicken with leafy spinach and sharp white cheddar, these patties are flavorful, moist, and satisfying. Perfectly seared in a skillet, they’re ready in minutes and bring a hearty, homemade touch to your dinner table. You’ll love how the flavors meld together—the mild chicken balanced by rich cheese and the vibrant notes of fresh spinach. It’s a great choice for weeknights, cookouts, or even a healthy meal prep option. Serve it up with toasted buns and your favorite toppings for a deliciously complete meal.
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb ground chicken
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1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
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1 cup sharp white cheddar cheese, shredded
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1/4 cup breadcrumbs
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1 large egg
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2 garlic cloves, minced
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1/4 tsp onion powder
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1/4 tsp paprika
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1/2 tsp salt
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1/2 tsp black pepper
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1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
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4 burger buns
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Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, red onion, mayo, mustard
Directions:
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In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until fully incorporated.
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Form the mixture into 4 even-sized patties.
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Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
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Cook the patties for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the outside is golden brown.
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Toast burger buns lightly if desired.
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Assemble burgers with your favorite toppings and serve hot.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 22 minutes
Kcal: 385 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
A Modern Spin on Classic Comfort: The White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger
The White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger is more than just a weeknight dinner idea—it’s a celebration of flavor, nutrition, and convenience wrapped up in a juicy patty. As comfort food continues to evolve, this recipe stands out as a health-forward and flavor-rich alternative to traditional beef burgers. Made with lean ground chicken, fresh spinach, and sharp white cheddar, this burger redefines what it means to eat “clean” without sacrificing indulgence. Whether you’re preparing for a summer cookout or just want a quick protein-packed meal, this recipe delivers on every front.
The Story Behind This Flavorful Burger
Born out of the need for a wholesome, protein-rich meal that still satisfies those burger cravings, this dish merges comfort with nutrition. The use of chicken as the protein base is intentional—it’s lighter than beef, yet still juicy and flavorful when cooked properly. The addition of spinach elevates the nutritional profile, while white cheddar adds the familiar indulgent bite burger lovers crave. This burger is the answer to anyone who wants the best of both worlds: healthy and hearty.
Why Choose Chicken Over Beef?
Ground chicken is a leaner option compared to beef, making it ideal for those looking to reduce saturated fat intake without skimping on flavor. Chicken also takes on spices and seasonings beautifully, allowing the added garlic, onion powder, and paprika in this recipe to shine. It cooks quickly and remains tender and juicy when combined with ingredients like shredded cheese and spinach. This makes it not just a healthier choice but also a more flexible one.
Nutritional Benefits of Spinach and White Cheddar
Spinach is a well-known superfood loaded with iron, magnesium, and vitamins A and C. In this burger, it’s chopped finely and mixed into the meat, blending seamlessly for added nutrition without overpowering the flavor. It also contributes to a more moist texture, which is important in ground chicken recipes.
White cheddar, on the other hand, brings a tangy sharpness and creaminess that balances the mildness of the chicken and the earthy taste of the spinach. While cheese is often viewed as indulgent, moderate amounts of sharp cheddar can actually increase satisfaction and reduce the need for additional, less nutritious condiments.
Perfect for Meal Prep and Family Dinners
One of the greatest advantages of this recipe is its adaptability. These patties can be made ahead of time and frozen for quick weeknight dinners. They reheat beautifully and pair well with everything from traditional buns to low-carb lettuce wraps or even grain bowls. For families with children, this recipe offers a sneaky way to include vegetables in meals without complaints.
The simplicity of the ingredient list and the short cooking time make this dish a go-to for busy households. In just about 20 minutes, you’ll have a home-cooked meal that everyone can agree on—filling, flavorful, and full of real ingredients.
A Crowd-Pleaser at Any Gathering
Hosting a barbecue or casual dinner party? These burgers are a guaranteed hit. Unlike beef, which can sometimes feel too heavy for warm weather, chicken keeps things light and fresh. You can even scale up the recipe easily to make sliders for appetizers or serve them deconstructed as part of a burger bowl buffet. With optional toppings like avocado, tomatoes, and pickled onions, everyone can customize their burger to taste.
Tips to Perfect Your Chicken Burgers Every Time
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Don’t overwork the mixture: Mix until just combined to avoid a tough texture.
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Use fresh spinach: It not only tastes better but also adds vibrant color and better texture than frozen spinach.
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Cook thoroughly: Chicken should always be cooked to an internal temp of 165°F (74°C), so use a meat thermometer for best results.
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Let it rest: Like any burger, allowing the patties to rest for a few minutes after cooking helps lock in the juices.
Variations and Serving Ideas
Want to switch things up? Try adding some finely diced sun-dried tomatoes for extra umami or swap the cheddar for gouda or mozzarella for a different cheese profile. You can also add a spoonful of Dijon mustard or Greek yogurt into the mix for tang and extra moisture.
Serve your burgers on a toasted brioche bun for a classic presentation, or opt for lettuce wraps if you’re going low-carb. A side of sweet potato fries, a crisp garden salad, or even a grilled corn and avocado salsa can turn this burger into a complete, balanced meal.
Conclusion
The White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burger isn’t just a recipe—it’s a smart lifestyle choice that brings together clean ingredients, bold flavors, and practical cooking. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding your family, or simply craving something delicious and satisfying, this burger checks all the boxes. It’s proof that healthy eating can still be indulgent, crave-worthy, and easy to achieve, all from the comfort of your kitchen.