Irresistible Chicken Smash Burgers

This burger flips the script on traditional smash burgers by using ground chicken instead of beef. It's a fantastic option for folks who want to cut back on red meat but still crave that amazing crispy-edged burger experience. With super thin patties and gooey American cheese, you'll get all the satisfaction of a classic burger in a lighter package.

I turn to these burgers whenever I want something comforting on weeknights without feeling stuffed afterward. Since trying this method, my family actually asks for these more than beef burgers because they're just as tasty but don't sit so heavy in your stomach.

Ingredients

• Ground Chicken: grab the extra lean breast meat for best results and to keep the fat content down
• Salt and Pepper: basic seasonings that really bring out the chicken's natural taste
• Yellow American Cheese: get it fresh from the deli section for the best melt and flavor
• Burger Buns: brioche works wonders with its slight sweetness and good structure
• Mayo or Light Mayo: creates that gorgeous golden crust when toasting the buns
• Shredded Iceberg Lettuce: adds that must-have crisp texture and cooling element
• Tomato Slices: brings a juicy pop that works magic with the savory burger
• Pickles: cuts through the richness with their tangy zip
• Burger Sauce: mix mayo, ketchup and relish together for that classic drive-thru taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get Toppings Ready:

Sort out all your burger fixings before you start cooking the meat. Tear up the lettuce, cut your tomatoes, and have pickles standing by. If you're making sauce, stir everything together in a small dish. Getting this done first means you can eat your burgers right away when they're hot and crispy.

Fix Up the Chicken:

Blot the ground chicken with paper towels to soak up extra moisture. This step is super important for getting that nice brown crust. Form 2-ounce balls without squeezing them too tight. Keep them loose for better crisping when flattened. Sprinkle salt and pepper right before they hit the heat.

Brown the Buns:

Spread a thin layer of mayo on the cut sides of your buns. Warm up your pan over medium-high heat and put the buns face down until they turn golden. This mayo trick creates a barrier that keeps your buns from getting soggy once everything's put together.

Make the Patties:

Drop chicken balls onto your hot cooking surface with plenty of room between them. Put a small piece of parchment over each and push down hard with your spatula to make them really thin. Let them cook until the bottom gets golden and crusty while the top starts changing color. Flip carefully, add more seasoning, and immediately put cheese on half of the patties.

Build Your Burgers:

Put a plain patty on top of each cheese-covered patty to make double burgers. Move these stacks to your toasted buns and add all your toppings. Eat them right away to enjoy that perfect crispy texture.

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You Must Know

I came up with these chicken smash burgers when my husband needed to cut back on red meat. The first time we tried them, we couldn't believe how the chicken got that amazing crunchy crust we thought only beef could make.

Make Ahead Options

While these burgers taste best fresh off the pan, you can do some prep work ahead of time. Shape your chicken portions and stack them between parchment sheets in the fridge for up to a day. You can also mix up your burger sauce and get all the toppings ready the day before. Just keep everything in separate containers. When you're ready to eat, just smash and cook the burgers according to the directions.

Substitutions and Variations

Sometimes ground chicken isn't easy to find everywhere. Ground turkey works just as well and has similar health benefits. If you don't mind red meat, regular beef or bison are perfect for this cooking method too. When using turkey, try to get a mix that has some dark meat in it for better taste and juiciness.

Need a gluten-free option? Swap regular buns for gluten-free ones or wrap everything in lettuce leaves. Can't do dairy? Skip the cheese or try a plant-based slice, though they won't melt quite the same way as American cheese does.

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Serving Suggestions

These chicken burgers go great with classic sides or lighter options. Regular fries or onion rings make for a traditional burger night feel. Want something lighter? Try them with a green salad, sweet potato fries, or some grilled veggies.

For a fun family dinner, put out all the toppings and let everyone build their own perfect burger. Include the basics like lettuce, tomato and pickles, plus some fancier stuff like caramelized onions, cooked mushrooms, or sliced avocado.

Recipe FAQs

→ What's the trick to prevent patties from sticking while pressing them down?

Place a small piece of parchment paper over the patty before smashing with your spatula. It keeps things from getting messy and does the job perfectly!

→ Can I swap chicken for another protein?

Definitely! Ground turkey, beef, or even bison can be used instead. Just tweak the spices to go with the meat you pick.

→ What type of bread works well for these burgers?

Brioche buns are fantastic because they're buttery and soft. You can also try potato rolls, keto-friendly, or high-protein options depending on what you like.

→ Do you know an easy recipe for burger sauce?

Blend mayo, a bit of ketchup, sweet relish, a splash of white vinegar, and a sprinkle of sugar. Adjust the quantities for a lighter version of the sauce if you'd like!

→ How do I get that crispy golden surface on the patties?

Heat your skillet or griddle on medium-high before adding oil and the patties. Leave some space between them to ensure they cook perfectly without steaming.