Why I love it
One bite of this Smoky Southern Chicken Burger, and you're transported to a Southern barbecue, filled with smoky, tangy flavors that hit all the right notes. What I love about this recipe is the balance it strikes juicy chicken, crispy coating, a smoky essence, and the freshness of pickles and slaw for crunch. Every layer adds something unique, making this burger irresistible. It’s perfect for those days when you crave comfort food but still want a hint of smokiness and a bold flavor profile.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Chicken burgers are an excellent alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lighter, leaner protein option without compromising on flavor. Whether you prefer your chicken grilled, crispy, or fried, the possibilities are endless when it comes to crafting the perfect chicken burger. Today, I’m excited to share with you my Smoky Southern Chicken Burger, a recipe that packs a punch of bold flavors with just the right amount of southern charm.Recipe
Smoky Southern Chicken Burger
The Smoky Southern Chicken Burger offers a combination of juicy, seasoned chicken thighs, smoky flavors from paprika, and the crunch of fresh toppings like pickles and coleslaw. It’s built on a soft brioche bun, toasted to perfection, and topped with melted pepper jack cheese. This burger is smoky, spicy, creamy, and crunchy all at once. The tang from the pickles, paired with the richness of the smoky BBQ sauce, brings every bite to life, making this burger a crowd-pleaser. Ideal for summer barbecues or a weekend treat, this burger brings Southern charm to your table in the form of a handheld, mouthwatering delight.
Ingredients
For the patty and toppings:
- 1 500g Ground chicken thighs Chicken thighs are juicier and more flavorful than breast meat, making them ideal for burgers.
- ½ cup Breadcrumbs To add a slight crunch to the patty while helping it bind together.
- 1 Egg A binding agent that keeps the patty together while cooking.
- 2 Cloves garlic, minced Fresh garlic gives a savory undertone to the patty.
- 1 tbsp Smoked paprika The secret to achieving that delightful smoky flavor in the patty.
- 1 tbsp Ground cumin Adds earthy warmth that complements the smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper to taste Simple yet essential seasonings to enhance the flavor of the chicken.
- 4 Brioche buns Soft and slightly sweet, these buns contrast beautifully with the smoky chicken patty.
- 4 slices Pepper jack cheese The perfect cheese for adding creaminess with a little heat.
- Pickles Adds tangy crunch.
- Coleslaw (optional) A refreshing addition with a balance of crunch and creaminess.
For the sauce:
- ¼ cup Mayonnaise A creamy base for the sauce.
- 2 tbsp BBQ sauce Smoky and sweet to complement the burger.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Adds tangy sharpness.
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Patty Mix
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken thighs, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix these ingredients gently with your hands to avoid overworking the meat, which can make the patty dense. You want to keep it light and tender while ensuring all the ingredients are well-incorporated.
Shaping the Patties
- Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions and shape them into round patties. I recommend making them slightly larger than the buns since they will shrink slightly as they cook. Press the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent it from puffing up in the middle during cooking.
Grilling or Frying the Chicken Patties
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat and brush lightly with oil. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you prefer a crispier patty, you can opt to coat the patties in panko breadcrumbs before cooking.
Toasting the Brioche Buns
- While the patties are cooking, slice the brioche buns in half and toast them lightly on the grill or skillet. A light golden crust adds texture and prevents the bun from getting soggy from the toppings.
Preparing the Smoky BBQ Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, BBQ sauce, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This sauce brings a smoky, creamy, and tangy element to the burger, perfectly complementing the spicy chicken patty.
Assembling the Burger
- Once the patties are done, it’s time to assemble your Smoky Southern Chicken Burger. Spread a generous amount of the smoky BBQ sauce on the bottom bun. Add the chicken patty, a slice of pepper jack cheese, and top it off with pickles and coleslaw for added crunch and freshness. Finally, place the toasted top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
The Smoky Southern Chicken Burger is a delicious fusion of bold flavors with a delightful crispy texture. If you enjoy this recipe, don’t miss out on the Smoky Bourbon Bacon Hamburger, which brings an extra level of heat for those who like their chicken burgers fiery. Both recipes highlight how chicken can serve as the base for exciting and flavorful burgers.
Which Cuisine Does This Burger Belong To?
The Smoky Southern Chicken Burger belongs to American Southern cuisine, drawing inspiration from the smoky flavors of Southern barbecue. The use of smoked paprika, BBQ sauce, and coleslaw makes this burger a celebration of Southern flavors, perfect for any backyard barbecue or casual meal. The combination of fresh, tangy, and smoky elements captures the essence of Southern comfort food while giving it a modern twist.Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 550kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 30gFat: 35g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Smoky Southern Chicken Burger is more than just a meal; it’s an experience. It perfectly balances smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors while offering a juicy, tender chicken patty at its core. Whether you're enjoying it fresh off the grill on a sunny afternoon or crafting it in your kitchen for a quick weeknight meal, this burger never fails to deliver bold, comforting flavors. Try it out for yourself, and I guarantee it will quickly become a favorite in your household, just like it is in mine.
With its perfect combination of smoky Southern ingredients and classic burger elements, this dish is bound to make you rethink chicken burgers in the best possible way! Enjoy every bite of this flavorful creation!Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground chicken breast instead of chicken thighs for the patties?
Answer: Yes, you can use ground chicken breast, but keep in mind that it’s leaner than chicken thighs, so the patties may be slightly drier. To maintain juiciness, consider adding a teaspoon of olive oil to the mixture or be careful not to overcook the patties. Thighs are preferred for their richer flavor and moisture.
2. How can I make the burger spicier?
Answer: To add more heat, you can increase the amount of smoked paprika or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the patty mixture. Additionally, you can use spicy BBQ sauce or choose a hotter pepper jack cheese. Adding jalapeño slices or hot sauce to the toppings can also increase the spice level.
3. Can I make the patties in advance?
Answer: Yes, you can prepare the patties in advance. Shape them, place them on a plate or tray, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can enhance the flavor as the ingredients have time to meld together. Just make sure to bring the patties to room temperature before cooking for even results.
4. What can I use as a substitute for brioche buns?
Answer: If brioche buns aren’t available, you can use regular burger buns, potato buns, or even whole-wheat buns for a slightly healthier option. The key is to use a bun that can hold up to the juicy patty and toppings without falling apart.
5. Can I bake the patties instead of grilling or frying them?
Answer: Yes, you can bake the patties as a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). For extra crispiness, consider broiling them for the last 2-3 minutes.
1 thought on “Smoky Southern Chicken Burger”