This tasty jalapeño pepper jack chicken burger is sure to spice up your mealtime! Juicy chicken patties are mixed with zesty jalapeños and creamy pepper jack cheese.
Who doesn’t love a little kick in their burger? I love customizing mine with fresh toppings, and don’t forget the extra cheese! It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s super easy to make.
Cooking these burgers is a breeze. Just mix, form patties, and grill them up. You’ll have a delicious dinner ready in no time! Enjoy them with your favorite sides for a fun meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the burger. If you prefer, ground turkey or lean beef can be great alternatives. Chicken tends to be lighter and absorbs flavors well, making it a personal favorite for me.
Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add spice and flavor. Adjust the amount depending on your heat tolerance. If you want a milder option, try using roasted red peppers instead for a sweet twist.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese delivers that creamy, spicy kick. If you can’t find pepper jack, Monterey Jack or even cheddar can work. I like adding extra cheese on top for more gooey goodness!
Brioche Buns: These buns are soft and slightly sweet, perfect for this burger. You can substitute them with whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed. Personally, I enjoy a toasted bun for added texture.
Avocado: Mashed avocado adds creaminess. If avocados are hard to find, try a slice of fresh mozzarella or even a dollop of sour cream for a different twist.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Patties Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken burgers moist can be tricky! Here are my tips:
- Don’t overmix the meat when combining ingredients; this helps keep them tender.
- Make sure not to press down on patties while cooking, which can cause juices to escape.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Overcooking can quickly lead to dryness.
Following these tips will give you juicy burgers every time! Enjoy cooking!
Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup finely diced fresh jalapeño (adjust for spice preference)
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese, plus extra slices for topping
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For Assembling the Burger:
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed (for topping)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced into rings
- Lettuce leaves
- Cooking oil (for grilling or pan-frying)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and roughly 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes to enjoy these flavorful burgers from start to finish. Perfect for a quick and delicious weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, diced jalapeño, shredded pepper jack cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is evenly distributed, but be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Use your hands to shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Try to make them as uniform as possible for even cooking.
3. Preheat and Cook the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the grates or the pan. Place the chicken patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Add Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty to allow it to melt beautifully.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, toast the brioche buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster oven until they are golden brown. This adds a wonderful texture to your burger.
6. Prepare the Avocado Spread:
In a small bowl, mix the mashed avocado with mayonnaise to create a creamy spread. This will add a delicious flavor to your burgers.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Start by spreading the avocado-mayo mixture generously on the top bun. On the bottom bun, layer fresh lettuce, a slice of tomato, and red onion rings. Place the juicy chicken patty with melted cheese on top of these layers.
8. Final Touch:
Cover your burger with the top bun and serve immediately. These burgers pair well with crinkle-cut fries and some fresh slices of jalapeños on the side.
Enjoy your flavorful and slightly spicy jalapeño pepper jack chicken burger!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for the chicken in this recipe. It has a slightly different flavor but will still yield delicious burgers. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as ground turkey can sometimes cook a bit faster!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level?
If you prefer milder burgers, use less jalapeño or remove the seeds and membranes before dicing them. Alternatively, you can substitute the jalapeños with sweet bell peppers for added flavor without the heat!
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to cover them tightly to prevent drying out. When you’re ready, cook them straight from the fridge!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months for a quick meal later!
