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.
1500gground 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.
1small onion, finely choppedOnions add natural sweetness and moisture to the patty, balancing the spices.
2garlic cloves, mincedGarlic infuses the chicken with a robust, savory flavor that stands out against the spices.
1tbspchili powderChili powder gives the patty its signature spicy kick, adding depth without being overpowering.
1tbspground cuminCumin brings a warm, earthy flavor that complements the heat of the chili powder.
1tbspsmoked paprikaSmoked paprika adds a smoky element that makes the patty more complex and flavorful.
1eggEgg acts as a binder to help the patties hold together while cooking.
1tbspDijon mustardMustard adds a tangy contrast to the heat from the spices, rounding out the flavors.
1Salt and freshly ground black pepper to tasteEssential seasonings that bring out the flavors of the other ingredients without overwhelming them.
For the Toppings:
4slicespepper jack cheesePepper jack cheese enhances the burger’s spiciness with its own hints of heat, and its creamy texture balances the heat.
1Sliced jalapeños (optional, for extra heat)Jalapeños add a fiery crunch that really amps up the spice factor of this burger.
1Lettuce leavesCrisp lettuce provides a refreshing contrast to the spicy patty and cheese.
1Tomato slicesJuicy, fresh tomatoes help cool down the spice and add a sweet, tangy flavor.
1Pickled red onionsPickled onions bring a tangy, slightly sweet note that cuts through the richness of the chicken and cheese.
1Chipotle mayoChipotle mayo brings smoky heat and creaminess, adding depth and richness to each bite.
For the Buns:
4brioche 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!
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.