This chicken burger brings a spicy kick with creamy pepper jack cheese and zesty jalapeños. It’s juicy, flavorful, and a fun way to enjoy a classic meal!
Honestly, who can resist the combination of spicy and cheesy? I love grilling these burgers, and they’re perfect for summer cookouts. Just don’t forget the napkins! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps the burger lean and juicy. If you want a richer flavor, use ground turkey or beef instead. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños add heat! If you prefer mild, swap for a banana pepper or omit the jalapeño entirely. Canned jalapeños can also work if you don’t have fresh ones available.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese gives the burger a nice kick. If you can’t find it, Monterey Jack or even cheddar can substitute. You might want to add a bit of hot sauce to get that spicy edge!
Avocado: Mashing fresh avocado makes a creamy topping. If you’re short on avocados, store-bought guacamole works well. You can also use sliced avocado for added texture.
What’s the Best Way to Shape and Cook Chicken Patties?
Shaping the patties properly ensures they cook evenly. Here’s a simple way:
- Gently mix the chicken with spices and other add-ins in a bowl. Don’t overmix to keep them tender.
- Divide the mixture into 4 parts. Wet your hands to prevent sticking, then shape each into a patty. Aim for about 3/4 inch thick.
- Preheat your grill or skillet. Cooking over medium heat is key, as it cooks them through without burning.
- Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
Using a lid during the last minute of cooking helps the cheese to melt nicely. This cooking method keeps the burgers juicy and flavorful, making them a family favorite!
Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely diced (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 avocado, mashed (for guacamole)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1/4 cup sour cream or mayonnaise
- 4 slices tomato
- 1 small red onion, sliced into rings
- Lettuce leaves
- Cooking oil or spray for grill/pan
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes. In no time, you can enjoy a delicious, spicy chicken burger!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, diced jalapeño, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, ground cumin, and a sprinkle of salt and black pepper. Mix gently by hand until everything is combined. Be careful not to overmix, as it can make your burgers tough!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each one into a patty that’s about 3/4 inch thick, making sure to create a slight indent in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat and spray or brush it lightly with cooking oil. Cook each chicken patty for about 5-6 minutes on one side until it’s nice and browned, then flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Melt the Cheese:
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty. Cover the grill or skillet to help the cheese melt perfectly.
5. Prepare the Guacamole:
While the burgers are cooking, mash the avocado in a small bowl and mix in the lime juice for a tasty guacamole. Add a pinch of salt to taste.
6. Toast the Buns:
Lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or skillet until they are golden brown. This adds a lovely crunch!
7. Assemble the Burgers:
On the bottom half of each bun, spread a thin layer of sour cream or mayonnaise. Layer on the lettuce, a slice of tomato, and some red onion rings. Place the cooked chicken patty with melted cheese on top.
8. Finish It Off:
Spoon a generous amount of guacamole over the cheese, and top it all off with the top half of the bun.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers immediately with some crinkle fries and ketchup on the side. Enjoy the explosion of flavors!
Dig in and savor the spicy goodness of your home-cooked burgers! 🍔🌶️
FAQ for Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will keep your burgers lean. Just make sure to monitor the cooking time, as ground turkey may require a slightly longer cook time to reach 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Jalapeños?
If you’re looking for a milder flavor, consider using banana peppers or sweet bell peppers. You can also omit them entirely if you want a non-spicy version of the burger!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a little cheese on top if desired!
Can These Burgers Be Made Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties a day in advance and store them in the fridge. Just remember to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. When ready, cook them straight from the fridge! No need to thaw.
