Spinach and Cheddar Chicken Burgers

A month ago I came across this blog and burger recipe Cookin’ with Super Pickle: White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers.  I made them immediately because I don’t particularly care for red meat all that much, including hamburger.  I have to say these burgers were amazing.  I didn’t change anything on the recipe, except that I didn’t have white cheddar so I just used the blend of cheddar and Monterey jack I had on had.  This recipe is probably one of the best burgers I have tasted.  The burger is tender, but it held together nice.  For anyone who is a burger lover, even if you think trading in chicken for beef is strange these are amazing.

Mr.Picky could eat burgers for every meal   He used to just eat fast food all the time or wanted frozen patties.  I did not grow up this way and continue to make a variety of burgers and sandwiches which have stolen his heart.  As much as it is hard to picture, Mr.Picky does love to cook and experiment in the kitchen as well.  We have found some great turkey burger recipes which I can’t wait to add sooner than later, burger season is coming up quick.  Chicken burgers have now taken the place of turkey burgers.  I even ground a mix of chicken breasts and thighs to make this, as it was cheaper and I already had them in the freezer.  I am sure these patties would freeze great.

Spinach and Cheddar Chicken Burgers

• 1 1/4 lb ground chicken breast (pre ground or grind your own if you can!)
• 1 1/2 cups fresh baby spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
• 1/2 small onion
• 2 small clove garlic
• 2 stalks green onion
• 1 Tbs fresh parsley leaves
• 1/4 cup shredded aged white cheddar or whatever you have
• 2 tsp balsamic vinegar
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 2 tsp soy sauce
• 1/4-1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1/4-1/2 cup bread crumbs

Place spinach, onion, garlic, green onion, and parsley in a food process.  Process until finely chopped.

Once processed, transfer to a large bowl with everything else.  Mix with your hands until combined.

Cover a sheet pan with foil, and form patties to suit your bun and place on foil.

Broil for about 7-9 minutes on each side, flipping at the half way point.  There will be some liquid that comes off and I just  pour if off when I pull them out to flip them.

Serve with your favorite toppings, no cheese needed for it is in the patty.

Some people make into meatballs, and said they cooked them for about 20-25 minutes.   So experiment!