Chicken Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce Recipe
Chicken burgers are a fantastic alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lighter, leaner option without sacrificing flavor. But when you add a kicky, creamy Bang Bang sauce, these burgers become an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for those looking to jazz up their burger night with something a bit different yet incredibly delicious.
Whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a family dinner, or just craving a burger with a twist, Chicken Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce are sure to be a hit. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every step to create the juiciest chicken patties paired with a zesty, sweet, and spicy sauce that will leave everyone asking for seconds.
What is Bang Bang Sauce?
Bang Bang Sauce is a famous condiment that originates from the popular Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer. It’s known for its creamy, sweet, and spicy flavor profile, typically made with a combination of mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, and sriracha. The balance of these flavors creates a sauce that is both addicting and versatile, making it a perfect accompaniment to crispy chicken burgers.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Bang Bang Sauce
Before you start with the burgers, it’s a good idea to prepare the Bang Bang sauce so that the flavors have time to meld. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, sweet chili sauce, sriracha, honey, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir until smooth and well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you prefer more heat, add an extra teaspoon of sriracha. Once done, cover the sauce and refrigerate it until you’re ready to serve.
2. Make the Chicken Burger Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper. Crack in the egg and mix everything together using your hands or a spatula until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties. Make sure the patties are slightly larger than the buns, as they will shrink slightly during cooking. For easier handling, place the patties on a parchment-lined plate or tray and refrigerate them for about 15-20 minutes. This helps them firm up, making them easier to cook.
3. Cook the Chicken Patties
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken patties to the skillet. Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). Avoid pressing down on the patties as they cook, as this can squeeze out the juices and make them dry.
If you prefer, you can also grill the patties. Preheat the grill to medium heat, lightly oil the grates, and cook the patties for the same amount of time, flipping once. Grilling adds a nice smoky flavor that complements the Bang Bang sauce beautifully.
4. Toast the Buns
While the patties are cooking, prepare the buns. Toasting the buns adds texture and helps prevent them from getting soggy once the sauce is added. You can toast the buns on the grill or in a skillet with a little butter until they’re golden and slightly crispy.
5. Assemble the Burgers
Now it’s time to bring everything together. Spread a generous amount of Bang Bang sauce on the bottom half of each bun. Place the cooked chicken patty on top, followed by lettuce leaves, tomato slices, red onion slices, and pickles if using. Drizzle a little more Bang Bang sauce over the toppings, then crown your burger with the top half of the bun.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Serve the Chicken Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce immediately, while they’re hot and juicy. These burgers pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or even some crunchy coleslaw. Don’t forget to have extra Bang Bang sauce on the side for dipping!
Variations on Chicken Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce
Cheesy Chicken Burgers
For a cheesy twist, add a slice of your favorite cheese, such as cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella, to the patties during the last minute of cooking. Cover the skillet or grill with a lid to help the cheese melt quickly and evenly.
Spicy Jalapeño Chicken Burgers
If you’re a fan of heat, add some finely chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture before forming the patties. You can also top the burgers with pickled jalapeño slices for an extra kick.
Avocado Chicken Burgers
For a creamy addition, top your chicken burger with slices of ripe avocado. The creaminess of the avocado pairs perfectly with the spicy Bang Bang sauce, adding a fresh, buttery flavor.
Gluten-Free Chicken Burgers
If you’re avoiding gluten, simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs and use gluten-free buns. The rest of the recipe remains the same, so you can still enjoy all the delicious flavors.
Tips for Making the Best Chicken Burgers
Use Ground Chicken with Some Fat
To keep your chicken burgers juicy and flavorful, it’s important to use ground chicken that has a bit of fat in it. A mix of dark and white meat works well. If the chicken is too lean, the patties may turn out dry.
Don’t Overmix the Meat
Overmixing the ground chicken can result in tough, dense patties. Mix just until the ingredients are combined to keep the burgers tender.
Refrigerate the Patties Before Cooking
Chilling the patties before cooking helps them hold their shape and prevents them from falling apart in the skillet or on the grill.
Adjust the Heat Level of the Bang Bang Sauce
If you’re serving these burgers to a crowd with varying spice preferences, consider making two batches of Bang Bang sauce: one mild and one spicy. This way, everyone can customize their burger to their liking.
Grill or Pan-Fry?
Both methods work well for cooking chicken burgers, but grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the Bang Bang sauce. If you’re grilling, be sure to oil the grates well to prevent the patties from sticking.
Health Benefits of Chicken Burgers
Lean Protein Source
Chicken is a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Opting for chicken burgers instead of beef can be a healthier choice, especially if you’re looking to reduce your intake of red meat.
Lower in Fat
Compared to traditional beef burgers, chicken burgers are typically lower in fat, particularly saturated fat. This makes them a better option for those watching their fat intake or looking to maintain a heart-healthy diet.
Rich in Nutrients
Chicken is packed with essential nutrients, including B vitamins, phosphorus, and selenium. B vitamins are crucial for energy production and brain health, while phosphorus and selenium play important roles in bone health and immune function.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using All White Meat
While white meat chicken is leaner, it can also be dry. Using a combination of white and dark meat or opting for ground chicken with a little fat will help keep your burgers moist and flavorful.
Skipping the Sauce
The Bang Bang sauce is what makes these chicken burgers truly special. Don’t skimp on it! The balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors takes the burgers to the next level.
Overcooking the Patties
Overcooking chicken can lead to dry, tough patties. Keep an eye on the cooking time and use a meat thermometer to ensure the patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F without going over.
Conclusion
Chicken Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce are a delightful twist on a classic favorite. The combination of juicy chicken patties and the addictive Bang Bang sauce creates a flavor-packed meal that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re making them for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, these burgers are guaranteed to satisfy. So fire up the grill (or skillet), and get ready to enjoy one of the best chicken burgers you’ll ever have!
FAQs
Q1: Can I make the chicken patties ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can save time on the day of serving.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.
Q3: Can I freeze the patties?
Absolutely! Form the patties and place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Q4: What sides go well with Chicken Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce?
These burgers pair well with a variety of sides, such as sweet potato fries, coleslaw, potato salad, or a simple green salad.
Q5: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute for chicken in this recipe. The flavors will be slightly different, but still delicious.
Chicken Burgers with Bang Bang Sauce Recipe
Chicken burgers are a fantastic alternative to traditional beef burgers, offering a lighter, leaner option without sacrificing flavor. But when you add a kicky, creamy Bang Bang sauce, these burgers become an unforgettable culinary experience. This recipe is perfect for those looking to jazz up their burger night with something a bit different yet incredibly delicious.
Ingredients
- For the salsa
- 1 Roma tomato diced
- ½ small red onion diced
- 1 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 lime juiced
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- For the chicken burgers
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 1 large egg
- ½ small red onion diced
- 1 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon paprika
- 4 slices Swiss cheese
- For the Bang-Bang Sauce
- ⅓ cup mayo
- 3 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon franks red hot
- 1 teaspoon crushed garlic
- 1 teaspoon salt
- For serving
- 4 Romaine lettuce slices
- 4 onion buns
- olive oil or butter for toating the buns
Instructions
Combine all of the salsa ingredients in a small mixing bowl. Set aside.
Add ground chicken, remaining panko bread crumbs, egg, onion, cilantro, red pepper flakes, garlic powder, and paprika to a large mixing bowl. Mix well to combine. Form the mixture into a ball and divide it into 4 equal sections. Form each section into a 1/2-inch thick patty.
Heat a cast iron grill pan over medium-high heat.
While the pan is heating, prepare the Bang-Bang Sauce by whisking the mayo, sweet chili sauce, franks red hot, crushed garlic, and salt in a small bowl.
Spray the grill pan lightly with non-stick cooking spray. Place the chicken patties onto the pan and cook for 4 minutes. Flip the patties over and cook for 2 minutes. Add cheese slices to the tops of the patties and cook for 2 more minutes or until the burgers are cooked through. Check to be sure the internal temp of the chicken patties has reached 165°F before removing them from heat.
Lightly brush the buns with olive oil. Place the buns cut side down onto the grill pan over medium-high heat and toast until golden brown.
Place a slice of romaine lettuce onto the bun, then top with a chicken patty and salsa. Spread the Bang-Bang Sauce onto the top bun. Place the top bun on the sandwich.
Serve immediately.