Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers

Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers are a delightful twist on the classic beef burger. Packed with flavor, these burgers combine the smokiness of chipotle peppers, the richness of cheddar cheese, and the juiciness of ground chicken. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, these burgers are sure to be a hit at any gathering.

What Makes Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers Unique?

What sets Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers apart is the combination of bold flavors. The chipotle peppers add a spicy kick and a hint of smokiness, while the cheddar cheese adds a creamy texture and savory taste to the chicken patties. When paired with the homemade chipotle mayo, these burgers offer a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Ingredients Required

For the Chicken Patties:

• Ground chicken
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• Cheddar cheese
• Breadcrumbs
• Onion
• Garlic
• Salt and pepper

For the Chipotle Mayo:

• Mayonnaise
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• Lime

For Assembling the Burgers:

• Hamburger buns
• Lettuce
• Tomato
• Red onion
• Avocado

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Preparing the Chicken Patties:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped chipotle peppers, grated cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
3. Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into patties.
4. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through and golden brown.

Making Chipotle Mayo:

1. In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle peppers, and freshly squeezed lime juice.
2. Mix well until smooth and creamy.

Assembling the Burgers:

1. Toast the hamburger buns lightly.
2. Spread chipotle mayo on the bottom half of each bun.
3. Place a chicken patty on top of the mayo.
4. Top with lettuce, tomato slices, red onion slices, and avocado slices.
5. Cover with the top half of the bun.

Tips for Perfect Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers

• Be careful not to overmix the chicken patties as it can result in dense burgers.
• If you prefer a spicier kick, add more chipotle peppers to the chicken mixture.
• Customize your burgers with your favorite toppings such as bacon, jalapenos, or caramelized onions.

Health Benefits of Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers

Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers are a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers as they are lower in saturated fat and calories. Ground chicken is also a good source of protein, making these burgers a satisfying and nutritious meal option.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with a side of sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Variations and Substitutions

• Substitute ground turkey for ground chicken if desired.
• Use whole wheat hamburger buns for a healthier option.
• Experiment with different types of cheese such as pepper jack or gouda.

Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or a casual dinner party, Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers are sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With their bold flavors and juicy texture, these burgers will have everyone coming back for seconds.

FAQs About Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers

1. Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
   • Yes, you can prepare the chicken patties in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. The chipotle mayo can also be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator.
2. Can I freeze leftover burgers?
   • Absolutely! Cooked chicken patties can be frozen for up to 3 months. Make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before freezing.
3. Can I grill these burgers instead of cooking them on the stovetop?
   • Yes, you can grill Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers over medium heat for 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are cooked through.
4. What can I serve with these burgers besides fries?
   • These burgers pair well with a variety of sides such as potato salad, grilled vegetables, or corn on the cob.
5. Can I adjust the level of spiciness in the chipotle mayo?
   • Yes, you can control the spiciness of the chipotle mayo by adjusting the amount of chipotle peppers you use. Start with a small amount and add more according to your taste preferences.

Conclusion

Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers are a delicious and satisfying meal option that is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, these burgers are sure to become a favorite in your household. So fire up the grill or heat up the skillet and enjoy these mouthwatering burgers today!

Source: halfbakedharvest.com

Yield: 4

4 Cheese Mac with Honey Pepper Chicken Recipe

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Imagine the ultimate comfort food, where creamy, cheesy mac and cheese meets the sweet and spicy allure of honey pepper chicken. This 4 Cheese Mac with Honey Pepper Chicken recipe is the perfect blend of indulgence and gourmet flavors. It’s a surefire way to impress your family and friends at any gathering.

Prep Time 30 minutes

Cook Time 50 minutes

Total Time 1 hour 20 minutes

Ingredients

• 6 slices thick-cut bacon
• SEASONED FLOUR:
• 2 cups all purpose flour
• 3 Tbsp paprika
• 1 1/2 Tbsp kosher salt
• 1 1/2 Tbsp dry mustard
• 1 1/2 Tbsp garlic powder
• 1 1/2 Tbsp onion powder
• 1 Tbsp seasoned salt
• 3/4 Tbsp black pepper
• 1/2 Tbsp celery seed
• 1/2 tsp dried ginger
• 1/2 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• FRIED CHICKEN:
• 1 lb chicken tenders trimmed of any excess fat
• 2 cups buttermilk
• HONEY PEPPER SAUCE:
• 3/4 cup honey
• 1/4 cup brown sugar
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 3 Tbsp soy sauce
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper or less, to taste
• 4 CHEESE SAUCE AND PASTA:
• 1/2 stick butter (4 Tbsp)
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 Anaheim pepper diced (can substitute with jalapeno or poblano)
• 3 Tbsp all purpose flour
• 2 cups heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 3/4 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Romano cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded Asiago cheese
• 1/4 tsp dried basil
• Black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish
• 1 box dried cavatappi pasta (or other short cut pasta) (1 lb)

Instructions

• BACON:

• Cook bacon in your preferred method, and set aside to cool.

• SEASONED FLOUR:

  Add all ingredients to a large resealable plastic bag and shake to combine.

• HONEY PEPPER SAUCE:

• Add all ingredients to a saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to LOW and simmer for 20 minutes, or until thickened slightly. Set aside to cool a bit.

• FRIED CHICKEN:

• Place chicken tenders in a large bowl and pour buttermilk into bowl. Turn chicken to coat each piece in buttermilk.

• Let marinate while you prepare other things.

• Add oil to large heavy bottomed pot and heat to 350 degrees F.

• Shake excess buttermilk from chicken tender, then drop into the bag with the seasoned flour.

• Shake gently to coat in flour. Repeat with remaining chicken tenders.

• Add tenders, 2-3 at a time, to the hot oil and fry for several minutes per side, until dark golden brown and cooked through.

• Remove from the oil and place on a wire cooling rack (with paper towels laying underneath to catch the excess grease). Repeat with remaining chicken.

• 4 CHEESE SAUCE AND PASTA:

• While chicken is frying, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

• Add pasta and cook until al dente (according to package directions).

• Drain pasta and drizzle with a bit of olive oil.

• While pasta water is coming up to a boil, add butter to a saucepan and melt over MED-LOW heat.

• Add garlic and diced pepper to the pan and saute for 2 minutes, until softened.

• Add in flour and whisk to combine. Mixture will resemble very wet sand.

• Pour in heavy cream while whisking, and whisk often for 5 minutes, or until thickened.

• Sauce should coat the back of a spoon.

• Add in cheeses, one at a time, and stir to melt.

• Season with pepper and basil and stir to combine.

• Toss cooked pasta with cheese sauce and add to serving bowl.

• Toss fried chicken tenders with some of the honey pepper sauce, and place several chicken tenders on top of the mac and cheese.

• Sprinkle with crumbled bacon, minced fresh parsley, and an optional drizzle of the honey pepper sauce.

• Enjoy!