The Zesty Citrus Chicken Burger
The Zesty Citrus Chicken Burger is a refreshing, flavorful twist on the classic chicken burger. The juicy ground chicken patty is infused with lemon zest, smoked paprika, and cumin, giving it a zesty, smoky flavor that makes each bite pop. Topped with melted pepper jack cheese, creamy avocado, and tangy pickled onions, this burger offers a perfect balance of flavors and textures. The toasted whole-wheat buns add a hearty, nutty base, while the chipotle mayo gives it a final kick of smoky heat. Whether you’re grilling it up for a casual dinner or making it the star of your summer BBQ, the Zesty Citrus Chicken Burger is sure to impress with its bold and refreshing flavor profile.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patty:
- 1 500g ground chicken (preferably thigh meat for juiciness) Ground chicken thigh meat ensures the patty remains juicy, packed with flavor, and tender after cooking.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped Onions add a natural sweetness and moisture to the chicken patty, helping to balance out the spices.
- 2 garlic cloves, minced Garlic adds a robust, savory undertone to the patty, pairing beautifully with the zesty seasoning.
- 1 tbsp lemon zest Lemon zest brings a fresh, tangy brightness to the chicken, lifting the overall flavor.
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard Dijon mustard adds a slightly spicy, tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of the chicken.
- 1 egg The egg acts as a binder, holding the chicken patty together while cooking.
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika Smoked paprika brings a mild heat and a smoky depth that complements the citrus notes.
- 1 tbsp cumin Cumin adds warmth and an earthy undertone that enhances the overall flavor of the patty.
- 1 Salt and pepper to taste Proper seasoning is essential for bringing out the best in the chicken and the spices.
For the Toppings:
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese Pepper jack cheese melts perfectly over the patty, adding a slight kick and creaminess to the burger.
- 1 Sliced avocado Avocado adds a creamy, smooth texture that balances the zesty and smoky flavors of the patty.
- 1 Fresh lettuce leaves Lettuce provides a crisp, refreshing crunch to complement the rich chicken patty.
- 1 Tomato slices Juicy, ripe tomatoes add a fresh, sweet flavor that enhances the overall profile of the burger.
- 1 Pickled onions Pickled onions provide a tangy crunch, cutting through the richness of the other toppings.
- 1 Chipotle mayo (optional for a smoky kick) Chipotle mayo brings a smoky, slightly spicy creaminess to the burger.
For the Buns:
- 4 whole-wheat burger buns (toasted) Whole-wheat buns add a nutty flavor and more texture, making the burger both hearty and healthy.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Patty Mix:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, lemon zest, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, cumin, egg, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix the ingredients until everything is evenly combined. Be careful not to overwork the mixture, as that can make the patties tough.
Shape the Patties:
- Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions and shape each one into a patty that’s about ¾ inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb—this helps the patty cook evenly and prevents it from puffing up in the middle.
Cook the Patties:
- Heat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken patties for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Add the pepper jack cheese slices during the last minute of cooking and cover the grill or skillet to allow the cheese to melt perfectly over the patty.
Toast the Buns:
- While the patties are cooking, toast the whole-wheat buns until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. This step ensures the buns can hold up to the juicy patty and toppings without becoming soggy.
Assemble the Burger:
- To build your Zesty Citrus Chicken Burger, spread a layer of chipotle mayo on the bottom bun. Place the cheesy chicken patty on top, followed by slices of avocado, lettuce, tomato, and pickled onions. Add the top bun, and your vibrant, zesty chicken burger is ready to enjoy!
Notes
The Zesty Citrus Chicken Burger is a refreshing twist on the classic chicken burger, combining bold citrus flavors with smoky, creamy toppings. If you’re looking for something with a bit more heat, check out our Spice Kick Chicken Burger for a fiery take on a chicken burger!
Cuisine for The Zesty Citrus Chicken Burger
This burger belongs to American fusion cuisine, incorporating the classic elements of an American chicken burger with zesty, bright flavors from the lemon zest and cumin. The addition of chipotle mayo and pepper jack cheese gives it a Southwestern flair, making it a unique and exciting fusion of flavors.
Cuisine for The Zesty Citrus Chicken Burger
This burger belongs to American fusion cuisine, incorporating the classic elements of an American chicken burger with zesty, bright flavors from the lemon zest and cumin. The addition of chipotle mayo and pepper jack cheese gives it a Southwestern flair, making it a unique and exciting fusion of flavors.
Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 670kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 44gFat: 40g
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