This burger packs a punch with perfectly cooked chicken, melted pepper jack cheese, and a spicy kick from jalapeños. Juicy and flavorful, it’s a must-try!
I love to add extra toppings like fresh lettuce and tomato for crunch. And trust me, no one can resist a burger loaded with cheese—it’s an instant crowd-pleaser! 🧀🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: A lean option that cooks quickly and absorbs flavors well. If you prefer, ground turkey or beef can also work, but the taste and texture might differ slightly.
Jalapeños: These provide delicious heat. For a milder burger, opt for poblano peppers or omit them altogether. If you want more spice, try serrano peppers!
Pepper Jack Cheese: Offers a wonderful melt and a spicy kick. If you can’t find it, cheddar or Monterey Jack are great alternatives, though they’ll be less spicy.
Brioche Buns: Their buttery softness elevates the burger. If you want a healthier version, whole wheat or ciabatta buns can also be tasty options.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Patties Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken patties moist can be a challenge, but it’s all about handling them gently and not overcooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Don’t overmix the meat. Just combine until ingredients are blended to keep it tender.
- Cook on medium-high heat to get a nice sear without drying the inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (74°C) but not much more!
- Consider adding a bit of breadcrumbs or an egg to the mix for extra moisture.
Now you’re set to make some amazing, juicy, cheesy chicken burgers that everyone will love! Enjoy!
Cheesy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup finely chopped jalapeños (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
For the Assembly:
- 4 brioche hamburger buns
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced into rings
- Lettuce leaves (optional)
- Olive oil or cooking spray for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This burger recipe takes about 15 minutes to prep and another 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at around 30-35 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick dinner or weekend grilling!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped jalapeños, onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spoon until well combined, but be careful not to overwork the chicken. You want nice, tender patties!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once mixed, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty that’s about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty with your thumb—this helps them cook evenly!
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat and lightly oil the surface with olive oil or cooking spray. Cook each patty for about 5-6 minutes on one side, then flip it over and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remember to flip them halfway through cooking!
4. Add the Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of each patty. If using a skillet, you can cover it with a lid or place a cover on your grill to help the cheese melt perfectly!
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, toast the brioche buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden brown. Toasted buns add a great texture!
6. Make the Avocado Spread:
In a small bowl, mix together the mashed avocado and mayonnaise to create a creamy spread that’s deliciously rich and flavorful.
7. Assemble Your Burger:
To put your burger together, take the bottom bun and spread a generous amount of the avocado mayo on it. Add a lettuce leaf if you like, then place the cheesy chicken patty on top. Add slices of tomato and red onion rings, and finish with the top bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your tasty Cheesy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers immediately with your favorite sides, like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful treat!
Bon appétit! Your journey to a mouthwatering burger experience begins here! 🍔🌶️🧀
FAQs for Cheesy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will work just as well. You may find it slightly leaner, so be sure to cook it just right to keep the patties juicy!
What If I Don’t Have Jalapeños?
No worries! If jalapeños are not available, you can use other spicy peppers like serrano or even skip them for a milder burger. Adding a touch of hot sauce to the ground chicken can also provide that kick if you prefer.
Can I Prepare the Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can! Shape the patties and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just remember to bring them to room temperature for about 15 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Add fresh toppings to revive the burger’s original taste!
