These Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers pack a tasty punch with spicy jalapeños and creamy pepper jack cheese. Perfect for a fun cookout!
Who knew chicken burgers could be this flavorful? I love grilling these up on a sunny day—served with a side of chips, it’s a real treat for everyone! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: The star of the show! Ground chicken is lean and takes on flavors well. If you’re looking for a richer taste, ground turkey or beef can be good substitutes.
Jalapeño Peppers: These add the heat! If you prefer less spice, use just one pepper or switch to a milder pepper like a green bell pepper. Personally, I like to keep the seeds for an extra kick!
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese gives the burgers a creamy melt with a kick. If you can’t find it, Monterey Jack or even sharp cheddar can work too. Just look for something that melts well.
Avocado: Avocado provides creaminess in the guacamole. If you don’t have any, you could use sour cream or Greek yogurt for a different texture. However, I find fresh guacamole truly elevates the dish!
How Do You Cook the Perfect Chicken Patties?
Cooking chicken patties can be tricky since ground chicken is lean. Here are some steps to make sure they’re juicy and flavorful:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Over-mixing can lead to tough patties, so combine just until everything is blended.
- Form patties slightly larger than your buns; they will shrink as they cook.
- Cook them on medium-high heat to get a nice sear. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is key.
- For that melty cheese on top, cover the patties with a lid for the last minute to help it melt perfectly.
These techniques will help you create delicious, juicy chicken burgers that everyone will rave about! Enjoy your cooking! 🍔✨
Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1-2 jalapeño peppers, finely chopped (seeds removed for less heat)
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed (for guacamole)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (for guacamole)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/2 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Lettuce leaves
- Optional: ketchup or your favorite burger condiments
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10-15 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking. You’ll have delicious jalapeño pepper jack chicken burgers ready in approximately 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with the finely chopped jalapeños, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a fork until just combined. Don’t overwork the mixture, as this can make the burgers tough!
2. Form the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Divide the chicken mixture into four equal parts and shape each into a patty. Make the patties about ¾-inch thick. This helps them cook evenly and stay juicy!
3. Cook the Patties:
Place the patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, flipping only once, until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a generous amount of shredded pepper jack cheese. If you’re using a lid, cover the patties to help the cheese melt nicely.
4. Prepare the Guacamole:
While the patties are cooking, make the guacamole. In a separate bowl, mash the ripe avocado and mix in the lime juice. Season with salt to taste. This will add a creamy and zesty flavor to your burgers!
5. Toast the Buns:
Toast the hamburger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster until golden and warm. This adds a nice texture and helps prevent sogginess.
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
To build the burgers, spread a layer of mayonnaise on the top bun. Next, add a spoonful of the freshly made guacamole on top of the mayonnaise. On the bottom bun, layer on the lettuce leaves, followed by slices of tomato, red onion, and finally the cheesy chicken patty. Top with the guacamole-covered bun, and you’re ready to serve!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your burgers right away with fries or your favorite sides. Feel free to drizzle on some ketchup or your other favorite burger condiments to make it even tastier!
Enjoy these juicy, spicy, and cheesy chicken burgers that bring a fresh burst of flavor with every bite! Perfect for sharing with family and friends! 🍔🌶️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Substitute Ground Chicken with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, lean beef, or even ground pork if you prefer. Just keep in mind that different meats may slightly alter the flavor and texture of your burgers.
How Can I Reduce the Heat from Jalapeños?
If you want to tone down the spiciness, simply remove the seeds and inner membranes before chopping the jalapeños. You can also use fewer peppers or substitute with bell peppers for a milder flavor.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the burger patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. Just be sure to cover them well to keep them fresh. Make the guacamole just before serving for the best flavor and texture!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat them gently on the stove or in the microwave prior to serving. Just be careful not to overheat as this may dry them out!
