Spice Kick Chicken Burger

I love the Spice Kick Chicken Burger because it’s not your ordinary chicken burger—it’s packed with bold flavors and just the right amount of heat to keep things exciting. The ground chicken patty is juicy and tender, seasoned perfectly with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, giving it a rich, smoky kick that doesn’t overwhelm. The pepper jack cheese adds a creamy spiciness that melts beautifully over the patty, while the chipotle mayo delivers a smoky, creamy heat in every bite. What really takes this burger to the next level is the balance of textures—the fresh, crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes help cool down the spice, while the pickled red onions add a tangy, refreshing crunch. It’s the perfect burger for those days when you want something a little more adventurous and spicy, without losing the comfort and satisfaction of a great burger.

Introduction

Get ready to fire up your taste buds with this Spice Kick Chicken Burger! Crafted for those who crave a bold flavor punch, this burger layers juicy, spice-infused ground chicken patties with creamy pepper jack cheese, smoky chipotle mayo, and a medley of fresh and tangy toppings. Each bite brings a perfect balance: the warmth of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika in the patty, cooled by crisp lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and tangy pickled onions. Tucked between toasted brioche buns, this burger isn’t just a meal—it’s a delicious adventure in spice and texture. Perfect for a weekend cookout or an exciting weeknight treat, this recipe will satisfy any craving for something hearty, spicy, and unforgettable.

Recipe

Spice Kick Chicken Burger

Cheffery

The Spice Kick Chicken Burger is the ultimate spicy chicken burger, perfect for anyone who loves bold, fiery flavors. The juicy ground chicken patty is seasoned with a blend of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, giving it a deep, smoky heat that lingers on your palate. Melted pepper jack cheese adds a creamy layer of spiciness that complements the patty, while fresh lettuce and tomatoes offer a refreshing balance. Pickled red onions bring a tangy sweetness that cuts through the richness, and the chipotle mayo ties everything together with its smoky, creamy heat. Nestled between a toasted brioche bun, every bite of the Spice Kick Chicken Burger is a delightful explosion of flavors and textures. It’s the kind of burger that satisfies both your craving for spice and your love of comfort food.

5 from 7 votes

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 12 minutes mins

Total Time 30 minutes mins

Course Main Course

Cuisine American

Servings 4 People

Calories 650 kcal

Ingredients

  

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For the Patty:

• 1 500g ground chicken (preferably thigh meat for juiciness) Ground chicken thigh meat ensures the patty stays juicy and flavorful, while still being a leaner, healthier option than beef.
• 1 small onion, finely chopped Onions add natural sweetness and moisture to the patty, balancing the spices.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced Garlic infuses the chicken with a robust, savory flavor that stands out against the spices.
• 1 tbsp chili powder Chili powder gives the patty its signature spicy kick, adding depth without being overpowering.
• 1 tbsp ground cumin Cumin brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the heat of the chili powder.
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika Smoked paprika adds a smoky element that makes the patty more complex and flavorful.
• 1 egg Egg acts as a binder to help the patties hold together while cooking.
• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Mustard adds a tangy contrast to the heat from the spices, rounding out the flavors.
• 1 Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste Essential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the other ingredients without overwhelming them.

For the Toppings:

• 4 slices pepper jack cheese Pepper jack cheese enhances the burger’s spiciness with its own hints of heat, and its creamy texture balances the heat.
• 1 Sliced jalapeños (optional, for extra heat) Jalapeños add a fiery crunch that really amps up the spice factor of this burger.
• 1 Lettuce leaves Crisp lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy patty and cheese.
• 1 Tomato slices Juicy, fresh tomatoes help cool down the spice and add a sweet, tangy flavor.
• 1 Pickled red onions Pickled onions bring a tangy, slightly sweet note that cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese.
• 1 Chipotle mayo Chipotle mayo brings smoky heat and creaminess, adding depth and richness to each bite.

For the Buns:

• 4 brioche buns (toasted) Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, making them the perfect vehicle for this spicy burger. Their richness contrasts with the heat of the patty.

Instructions

 

Prepare the Patty Mix:

• In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Gently mix the ingredients using your hands, being careful not to overwork the chicken. Overmixing can result in a tough patty, and we want it to remain juicy and tender.
  

Shape the Patties:

• Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into patties that are about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help it cook evenly. Ground chicken can be a bit sticky, so you may want to lightly grease your hands before shaping the patties.
  

Cook the Patties:

• Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty and cover the grill or skillet to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the patty.
  

Toast the Buns:

• While the patties are cooking, lightly toast the brioche buns on the grill or in a skillet until golden brown and slightly crisp on the outside. The toasted buns will help hold the burger together and prevent sogginess.

Assemble the Burger:

• To build the Spice Kick Chicken Burger, spread a generous amount of chipotle mayo on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy chicken patty on top, followed by sliced jalapeños (if you want extra heat), lettuce, tomato slices, and pickled red onions. Add the top bun, and your spicy chicken burger is ready to enjoy!

Notes

The Spice Kick Chicken Burger is perfect for those who love bold, fiery flavors. Each bite is packed with a kick of spice and balanced by creamy, tangy toppings. If you’re in the mood for something a little milder but still delicious, check out our Classic Bite Beef Burger—a simple, timeless burger that never fails to satisfy!

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Cuisine for The Spice Kick Chicken Burger:

This burger belongs to American cuisine with a spicy Southwestern twist. The use of chili powder, cumin, and chipotle mayo brings a bold Southwestern influence to a traditional American-style chicken burger, making it an exciting fusion of flavors.

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 650kcalCarbohydrates: 50gProtein: 28gFat: 22g

Keyword Chicken Burger with Pickles, Easy Chicken Burger Recipe, Fresh Burger Toppings, Grilled Chicken Burger, Homemade Chicken Burger, Juicy Chicken Patty, Paprika Seasoned Chicken, Spicy Chicken Burger

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Conclusion

The Spice Kick Chicken Burger delivers a bold and fiery flavor experience for anyone who loves a bit of heat in every bite. With juicy chicken thigh patties infused with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika, this burger packs the perfect punch of warmth. The melted pepper jack cheese adds a creamy layer of heat, while fresh lettuce, juicy tomatoes, and pickled red onions offer a refreshing contrast to the spice. Topped with smoky chipotle mayo and served on a toasted brioche bun, this burger achieves a perfect balance of spicy, savory, and tangy flavors. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard cookout or just craving something with a kick, the Spice Kick Chicken Burger won’t disappoint. And if you’re in the mood for something more traditional, try our Classic Bite Beef Burger—a simple, comforting option with all the classic burger flavors you love.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken for the patties?

Answer: Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken. However, try to use ground turkey thigh meat to maintain juiciness, as it tends to be lean like chicken breast but can dry out if overcooked. The flavors will still blend well, though the texture might be slightly different.

2. How can I make the burger less spicy?

Answer: To reduce the spice, you can cut down on the chili powder or omit the jalapeños and pepper jack cheese. Consider using a milder cheese like mozzarella or Swiss, and replace the chipotle mayo with regular mayo for a creamier, less spicy flavor.

3. Can I make the patties ahead of time?

Answer: Absolutely! You can prepare the patties up to a day in advance. Shape them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to cook, let them sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes, then grill or cook as directed.

4. Can I cook these patties in the oven instead of on the grill or skillet?

Answer: Yes, you can bake the patties in the oven. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Add the cheese in the last few minutes so it melts perfectly.

5. What are some other topping ideas to customize this burger?

Answer: You can add avocado slices for a creamy texture, swap the pickled onions with caramelized onions for a sweeter taste, or add some crispy bacon for extra flavor. Feel free to get creative with sauces too, like garlic aioli or a touch of BBQ sauce to balance the spice.