These Chicken, Zucchini, and Fresh Corn Burgers are a tasty and healthy treat! Packed with juicy chicken, crunchy zucchini, and sweet corn, they are sure to please everyone.
Top them off with a refreshing tomato cucumber relish for that extra zing! I love how easy they are to whip up for a summer BBQ or a fun weeknight dinner with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is lean and perfect for these burgers. If you’re looking for a richer flavor, ground turkey is a solid substitute. You could also use beef or pork, but it will change the taste and texture.
Zucchini: Grating zucchini adds moisture without overpowering the flavor. If you’re short on zucchini, you can use finely grated carrots or even summer squash for a similar texture.
Fresh Corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch. If it’s not available, frozen corn works just as well. Just make sure to thaw and drain it first. Canned corn is an option too, but it may be softer.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These breadcrumbs create a nice crispy texture. Regular breadcrumbs can be used too, but you might miss that crunch! Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also great if you need a gluten-free option.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley is mild and fresh here. You could swap it for basil or cilantro if you prefer a bit more flavor. Dried herbs could work in a pinch, but use about a third of the amount.
How Can I Make Sure My Burgers Hold Together?
Your burger mixture may feel loose, but that’s okay! The key to keeping them together is letting them rest before cooking. Follow these tips:
- After mixing the ingredients, chill the mixture for 30 minutes. This helps it firm up.
- Form patties gently without packing them too tightly, which can make them dense.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- When cooking, be careful not to flip them too soon. Wait until they’re golden brown before turning.
With these tips, your burgers will not only hold together well but will also be delicious and juicy! Enjoy your cooking adventure!
How to Make Chicken, Zucchini, and Fresh Corn Burgers with Tomato Cucumber Relish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and drained of excess moisture
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
For the Tomato Cucumber Relish:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take around 30 minutes, including 10 minutes for preparation and about 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll mix the burger ingredients, shape them into patties, and cook them while you whip up a fresh and tasty relish. It’s quick and perfect for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Burger Ingredients:
In a big mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, corn kernels, breadcrumbs, finely diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, chopped parsley, the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything well until it’s all nicely combined.
2. Shaping the Patties:
Now, take a handful of the mixture and form it into patties that are about 3-4 inches wide. You should be able to make around 6-8 burgers. Keep them thick enough to stay juicy while cooking!
3. Cooking the Burgers:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle in some olive oil. When the oil is hot, carefully place the chicken burgers in the skillet. Cook them for about 4-5 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and cooked through. Remember, they need to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be safe to eat.
4. Making the Tomato Cucumber Relish:
While the burgers are on the stove, let’s prepare the refreshing relish. Take another mixing bowl and add the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped cilantro (or parsley), lime juice, and a bit of salt and pepper. Give it a good mix and set it aside for the flavors to blend together.
5. Letting the Burgers Rest:
Once the burgers are fully cooked, take them out of the skillet and let them rest for a few minutes on a plate. This helps them stay juicy!
6. Serving Up a Delightful Meal:
Serve your chicken, zucchini, and corn burgers warm. Top them with the fresh tomato cucumber relish for a burst of flavor. They’re delicious on their own or in a bun. Enjoy your tasty creation!
Can I Use Other Types of Ground Meat?
Absolutely! If you don’t have ground chicken, you can substitute it with ground turkey or even lean beef. Just keep in mind that the cooking time may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose, so always check for doneness to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
Yes! Simply swap out the regular breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. You can also add more grated zucchini if you need to compensate for the binding properties of the breadcrumbs. Just make sure to drain the zucchini thoroughly to avoid excess moisture!
How to Store Leftover Burgers
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave. For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side to keep them crispy.
Can I Freeze These Burgers?
Yes, these burgers freeze well! Form the patties and lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and cook as directed!
