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Juicy Ground Chicken Smash Burgers Recipe

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4.9 from 119 reviews

Discover the recipe for juicy and flavorful Ground Chicken Smash Burgers with crispy edges and melted American cheese. This easy homemade recipe uses simple ingredients and a smashing technique to create tender chicken patties cooked on a skillet or griddle, served on toasted brioche buns with classic toppings for a mouthwatering burger experience.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Burgers

  • 1 pound ground chicken (85% lean/15% fat recommended)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Assembling

  • 4 slices yellow American cheese
  • 4 brioche burger buns
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise or light mayonnaise (optional)
  • Shredded iceberg lettuce
  • Tomato slices
  • Pickles
  • Burger sauce

For Cooking

  • Neutral oil (canola or vegetable), a small amount for pan

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Ground Chicken Patties: In a medium bowl, lightly season 1 pound of ground chicken with salt and pepper without overworking the meat. Gently mix with your hands to combine, then divide into four equal portions. Roll each portion loosely into a ball without pressing or tightly packing.
  2. Heat Pan and Place Patties: Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet, cast iron pan, or griddle over medium-high heat until hot. Add a small amount of neutral oil if needed to prevent sticking. Place the loosely rolled chicken balls spaced apart in the pan and cook undisturbed for 1 to 2 minutes until the bottoms begin to brown slightly.
  3. Smash the Patties: Using a sturdy spatula, press down firmly on each chicken ball to flatten it into a thin patty approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. This creates the signature crispy edges. Expect some splattering as moisture escapes.
  4. Cook First Side and Develop Crust: Let the smashed patties cook for another 2 to 3 minutes without moving, allowing a deep golden-brown crust to form. Avoid disturbing the patties during this time to maximize browning and flavor.
  5. Flip and Add Cheese: Carefully flip each patty, immediately placing a slice of yellow American cheese on top. Cover the pan for 30 seconds to 1 minute to help the cheese melt evenly and become bubbly.
  6. Cook Second Side Until Done: Continue cooking the patties for an additional 2 to 3 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), and the cheese has melted fully.
  7. Toast the Brioche Buns: While the patties finish cooking, toast the cut sides of the brioche buns by either lightly buttering and toasting in a separate pan or placing them cut-side down directly on the griddle for the last minute of cooking. Toast until golden and slightly crisp to prevent sogginess.
  8. Assemble the Burgers: Spread a thin layer of mayonnaise (if using) on the bottom bun, add shredded iceberg lettuce, then place the cheesy chicken patty on top. Layer with tomato slices and pickles. Spread burger sauce on the top bun and crown the burger. Serve immediately for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Do not overwork the ground chicken to keep patties tender and juicy.
  • Use ground chicken with about 15% fat for better flavor; add olive oil if using extra-lean chicken.
  • Smashing the patties increases surface area for a crispy crust, a key to smash burgers.
  • Ensure the internal temperature of chicken reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
  • Toast buns to prevent sogginess and add texture contrast.
  • Prep the seasoned ground chicken mixture ahead but form and cook patties fresh for best results.
  • Customize toppings or sauces to suit your taste preferences.

Keywords: ground chicken burger, smash burger, chicken patties, homemade burgers, American cheese burger, brioche buns, juicy chicken burger

Find it online: https://cookwithlea.com/juicy-ground-chicken-smash-burgers-recipe/