This zesty chicken burger is packed with spicy jalapeños and melted pepper jack cheese. It’s juicy and full of flavor, perfect for anyone who loves a bit of heat in their meals!
Honestly, this burger is a crowd-pleaser! I love serving it with some cool ranch sauce to balance the spice. It’s my go-to for BBQs, and I can’t resist a second helping! 🍔🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the burger. You can substitute it with turkey or lean beef if you prefer. Ground turkey has a similar texture, while lean beef will provide a rich flavor.
Jalapeño Pepper: Fresh jalapeños give the burger a nice kick. For milder heat, use banana peppers or omit the seeds. If you want more spice, try a serrano pepper!
Pepper Jack Cheese: It adds creaminess and spice but feel free to switch it up with cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option.
Avocado: Perfect for a creamy topping! If you don’t have any, guacamole works well, or you can use a slice of cheese for an extra cheesy experience.
What’s the Best Way to Shape Even Burger Patties?
Making evenly shaped patties helps them cook consistently. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by dividing the mixture into four equal portions. Use a scale for accuracy if you want.
- Roll each portion into a ball, then flatten it slightly with your palms into a disc shape.
- Make an indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This prevents it from puffing up while cooking.
This simple technique ensures you get perfectly cooked chicken burgers every time!
How to Make Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Lettuce leaves
- Mayonnaise or ranch dressing
- Optional: sliced jalapeños for extra heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes around 10 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to cook. So, you’ll be enjoying your burgers in approximately 25 minutes! Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, finely chopped jalapeño, chopped onion, minced garlic, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until it’s well combined. It’s fun to get your hands in there!
2. Add the Cheese:
Gently fold in the shredded pepper jack cheese into the chicken mixture, making sure it’s evenly distributed. This will give our burgers that delicious cheesy flavor!
3. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a patty shape. Try to make them about 1/2 inch thick for even cooking.
4. Cooking the Patties:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, place the patties on the grill or skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check, and make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Toast the Buns:
While the chicken patties are cooking, you can toast the hamburger buns lightly on a separate skillet or in a toaster. This adds a nice crunch!
6. Assemble Your Burger:
Spread mayonnaise or ranch dressing on the bottom bun. Add a lettuce leaf, followed by a cooked chicken patty on top.
7. Add Toppings:
Layer slices of tomato and red onion over the patty as you like. Then, add a generous scoop of mashed avocado on top of the veggies.
8. Final Touch:
Top it off with the toasted bun and gently press them together. Don’t squash it too hard; we want all those tasty ingredients to stay inside!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your burgers right away with your favorite sides like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy your flavorful, spicy, and juicy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger!
FAQ for Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide a delicious burger. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as turkey may take slightly longer to reach the internal temperature.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Burgers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat until heated through, or place in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds.
Can I Prepare the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can form the patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent drying out. Let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking for even cooking.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you don’t have avocado, try using guacamole or even a slice of cheese! For a different twist, you could opt for a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to maintain creaminess.
