Smash Chicken Burger

Smash Chicken Burger is the ultimate comfort food that combines juicy, seasoned ground chicken patties with melted cheese and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a casual lunch or a weekend BBQ, this burger brings bold flavors and satisfying textures to your plate. The unique smashing technique creates a delightful crust while keeping the inside moist and tender.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and quick preparation, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
• Flavorful Combination: The blend of spices and toppings ensures each bite is packed with flavor.
• Versatile Options: Customize your burger with different toppings or sauces to suit your taste preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Cook a batch ahead of time for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.
• Family Friendly: Everyone loves a good burger! It’s sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools and equipment. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear on the chicken patties.
• Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining all ingredients thoroughly without mess.
• Spatula: Ideal for smashing the patties down to create that signature texture while flipping them easily.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Smash Chicken Burgers, you will need:

For the Chicken Patties

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 egg
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1/3 cup red bell pepper (finely diced)
• 2 tablespoons green onion (diced)
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 2 teaspoon cajun seasoning
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced)
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice, more if needed)

Toppings

• 4 slices cheddar cheese
• 2 strips Turkey Turkey Bacon (cooked and cut in half making 4 pieces)
• 2 buns (we love using brioche buns, toasted)
• Mayo
• Sriracha
• Red onion (sliced)

How to Make Smash Chicken Burger

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

1. In a mixing bowl combine all of the chicken patty ingredients. Mix well until fully combined.
2. Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal parts and roll them into balls.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

1. Preheat avocado oil in the skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken patty balls to the skillet. Use a spatula to smash them down gently.
3. Cook for 4-5 minutes until browned, then flip them over.

Step 3: Add Cheese

1. After flipping, place a slice of cheese on each patty.
2. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the cheese is melted.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers

1. While patties are cooking, drizzle mayo and sriracha sauce on each bun using a butter knife.
2. Place two cheesy patties on each bun, followed by sliced red onion and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon.
3. Top it off with the second bun, and repeat with any remaining burgers.

Enjoy your delicious Smash Chicken Burgers!

How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger

The Smash Chicken Burger is a delightful dish that can be customized in many ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your burger experience.

Classic Pairing

• French Fries: Crispy, golden fries make for a classic side that complements the juicy burger perfectly.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw adds crunch and a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the burger.

Creative Additions

• Avocado Slices: Adding fresh avocado brings creaminess and healthy fats to each bite.
• Pickles: Dill pickles add a crunchy, tangy note that enhances the overall flavor profile.

Unique Twists

• Pineapple Rings: Grilled pineapple adds a sweet and tropical twist to your Smash Chicken Burger.
• Sautéed Mushrooms: Earthy sautéed mushrooms can elevate your burger with an additional layer of flavor.

How to Perfect Smash Chicken Burger

Creating the perfect Smash Chicken Burger involves attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving burger excellence.

• Bold seasoning: Ensure you season the ground chicken well with spices like smoked paprika and Cajun for maximum flavor.
• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality cheese will elevate the taste of your burgers significantly.
• Don’t overcook: Keep an eye on your patties to ensure they stay juicy. Cooking them just right will keep them tender.
• Toast your buns: Toasting the buns adds texture and prevents them from getting soggy when assembling the burger.

Best Side Dishes for Smash Chicken Burger

Pairing side dishes with your Smash Chicken Burger can enhance your meal experience. Consider these options:

1. Sweet Potato Fries: These offer a healthier alternative with a natural sweetness that pairs nicely.
2. Mixed Green Salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing counterbalance to the rich flavors of the burger.
3. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings add crunch and a savory element that complements the burger well.
4. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled corn brings a touch of sweetness and is perfect for summer meals.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad adds comfort food vibes alongside your delicious burger.
6. Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal veggies provide a healthy side option bursting with flavor.
7. Cucumber Salad: A cool cucumber salad can refresh your palate between bites of the spicy smash chicken burger.
8. Baked Beans: Hearty baked beans bring warmth and depth, making them an excellent pairing with any barbecue-style meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Smash Chicken Burger, there are a few common pitfalls you might encounter. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using dry chicken: Ensure the ground chicken is moist. Adding breadcrumbs and an egg helps bind the mixture and keep it juicy.
• Not seasoning enough: Flavor your mix well! Use smoked paprika, cajun spice, and salt generously to enhance the taste of your burgers.
• Overcooking the patties: Cook your patties just until golden brown. Overcooking can dry them out; aim for about 4-5 minutes per side.
• Skipping the cheese addition: Don’t forget to add cheese before covering the skillet. This ensures it melts thoroughly over the patties, creating that delicious cheesy goodness.
• Ignoring bun quality: Choose good quality buns, like brioche, for a better texture and taste. Toast them for an extra crunch!
• Not layering toppings properly: For the best flavor in each bite, layer your toppings thoughtfully. Start with mayo/sriracha, then add patties, followed by red onion and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Smash Chicken Burgers in an airtight container.
• They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.

Freezing Smash Chicken Burger

• Wrap individual patties tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing them in a freezer bag.
• Frozen patties can last up to 3 months.

Reheating Smash Chicken Burger

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes until warm.
• Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for around 5 minutes on each side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about the Smash Chicken Burger to help you make it perfectly every time.

How do I make a Smash Chicken Burger?

To make a Smash Chicken Burger, combine seasoned ground chicken with breadcrumbs and spices, form patties, smash them while cooking, and top with cheese.

Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or beef if you prefer another type of meat while keeping similar cooking methods.

What toppings go well with Smash Chicken Burger?

Popular toppings include crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, fresh red onions, mayo, sriracha, lettuce, or even avocado slices for added creaminess.

How do I customize my Smash Chicken Burger?

Feel free to customize by adding different spices or herbs to the chicken mixture or swapping out toppings according to your taste preferences!

Final Thoughts

The Smash Chicken Burger is not only delicious but also versatile. Its juicy patties paired with crispy toppings make it a hit at any meal. Feel free to get creative with seasonings and toppings to suit your taste—this burger is sure to become a favorite!