How to Make Chicken Burgers

Want a burger that’s juicy and full of flavor, but lighter than a classic beef patty? Try making chicken burgers at home! Chicken burgers are simple to prepare and easy to adjust to your favorite flavors. You can grill them, fry them in a pan, or bake them. They’re a great choice for family dinners, quick meals, or cookouts, and you can season or top them any way you like.

This guide will walk you through choosing the right ingredients, cooking the patties properly, and building a delicious chicken burger. Let’s get started-making tasty chicken burgers at home is easier than you might think!

Why Chicken Burgers Are Different

Chicken burgers stand out because of their mild taste and lean protein. Unlike beef burgers, chicken soaks up the flavors of spices and sauces you add, letting you experiment with all kinds of seasonings. This makes them great for lots of different styles-everything from Mediterranean to spicy flavors. Chicken burgers are also lighter than most beef burgers, but still filling and packed with protein.

A well-made chicken patty is juicy and tender, not dry. If done right, it has a different texture than beef-it’s less dense but still satisfying. These factors make chicken burgers a fun and healthy option for anyone who likes experimenting in the kitchen.

Chicken Burgers vs. Beef Burgers

The real difference comes down to what you’re craving. Beef burgers are famous for their rich taste and juiciness, especially those made from fattier cuts. They’re also less likely to fall apart when cooking because of their higher fat.

Chicken burgers, however, are usually lighter and less greasy. They need a little help to stay moist, so it’s common to add things like mayo, grated onion, or a bit of oil. This prevents them from getting dry and helps build flavor. Chicken burgers cook quickly and aren’t as heavy, which is perfect for warmer days or if you prefer something lighter. If you want to cut down on saturated fat, chicken burgers are a strong choice, but still provide plenty of protein.

Benefits of Using Chicken

• Lighter meal: Great if you want a burger without feeling weighed down afterward.
• Leaner protein: Chicken breast has less saturated fat than beef, so it fits into healthy diets easily.
• Soaks up flavors: You can easily switch between different cuisines just by changing your spices and toppings.
• Cooks quickly: Chicken burgers don’t need much time, so they’re perfect for busy nights.

Chicken Burger Ingredients

Getting the right ingredients is important for a tasty, moist, and well-shaped chicken burger. Every item you add plays a role in holding the patty together and adding flavor or juiciness.

Main Ingredients for Patties

Using ground chicken is simplest, but you can also use chicken breasts cut up in a food processor. For juicier patties, a little fat from dark meat or a splash of oil helps. Use panko-style breadcrumbs for a lighter, crispier outside.

Seasonings and Add-ins

• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder or minced garlic
• Onion powder or grated onion
• Worcestershire sauce (adds deep flavor)
• Paprika (smoked or sweet)
• Fresh or dried herbs (parsley is popular)
• Optional: pesto, Tuscan seasoning, or a pinch of sugar

Chicken’s light taste lets these mix-ins stand out. Grated onion adds softness and juiciness, while mayo keeps things moist and smooth.

Keeping Burgers Moist

• Add mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt) into the mixture
• Mix in grated onion or a tablespoon of olive oil
• Use panko breadcrumbs and egg as binders
• Don’t over-mix the meat-stop once everything sticks together

Best Buns for Chicken Burgers

• Brioche buns (soft, slight sweetness, toasts well)
• Classic hamburger buns or whole wheat buns
• Pretzel buns or French-style rolls for variety
• Lettuce wraps or bowls for low-carb options

Toasting any bun helps keep it from getting soggy and adds crunch.

How to Make Chicken Burger Patties

Prepping the Chicken

• Ground chicken: Easy to find and use
• Chicken breast: For more control, blend pieces until fine

Keep chicken cold before mixing for easier shaping and better texture.

Mixing and Shaping

1. Combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, mayo, grated onion, and seasonings in a big bowl.
2. Mix gently, using your hands if possible, just until the mix holds together.
3. Shape into patties about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Try to make them all the same size for even cooking.
4. Make a small dip in the center of each patty with your thumb to stop it puffing up when cooked.
5. If you have time, chill patties in the fridge for 30 minutes. This helps them stay together on the grill or pan.

How to Prevent Dry Patties

• Add a spoonful of mayonnaise or Greek yogurt to the mixture
• Include grated onion for moisture
• Use egg and breadcrumbs to help hold in moisture
• Don’t press on burgers with your spatula while cooking

How to Cook Chicken Burgers

You can choose from several easy ways to cook your burgers, each giving a slightly different result:

Grilling

1. Heat grill to medium-high and oil the grates.
2. Place chilled patties on the grill.
3. Cook 4-6 minutes per side, until golden with grill marks.
4. Check that the inside reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Add cheese during the last minute or two, if you want.

Pan Frying

1. Heat a skillet over medium-high and add a little oil.
2. Place patties in the pan without crowding.
3. Cook 5-6 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through.
4. Check the internal temperature (should be at least 165°F).
5. Add cheese toward the end, covering for 30 seconds to melt.

Baking

1. Set oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment or oil it lightly.
2. Place patties on sheet and bake 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
3. Check temperature inside-the goal is 165°F.
4. If you want cheese, add it for the last couple minutes.

Air Fryer

1. Set air fryer to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly spray the basket and lay patties in a single layer.
3. Cook 8-12 minutes, flipping halfway.
4. Check for a safe temperature inside.
5. Add cheese for the last minute or two if you like.

How to Assemble and Serve Chicken Burgers

Now for the best part-building your burger!

Classic and Creative Toppings

Sauces to Try

• Burger sauce: Mayo, ketchup, pickles, mustard, Worcestershire
• Smoky mayo: Mix mayo with smoked paprika and garlic
• Tzatziki/yogurt sauce: For a light, fresh topping
• Spicy aioli: Mayo with sriracha or hot sauce
• Honey mustard: For a sweet tang
• BBQ sauce: Pairs well with grilled chicken burgers

Tips for Assembling

• Always toast your buns for crunch and to stop sogginess
• Spread sauce on top and bottom buns
• Put lettuce at the bottom, under the patty, to keep the bun dry
• Stack your burger neatly for easier eating
• Have toppings and sauces out so everyone can make their own burger

Ideas for Chicken Burger Variations

Spicy Chicken Burgers

• Add chopped jalapeños, chili flakes, or hot sauce to the patty mix
• Use pepper jack cheese and spicy aioli as toppings
• Balance the spice with avocado or yogurt sauce

Cheesy Chicken Burgers

• Adds slices of Swiss, cheddar, pepper jack, Muenster, mozzarella, or feta at the end of cooking
• Let cheese melt fully for a gooey burger

International Flavors

• Mediterranean: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh oregano; top with feta and tzatziki
• Asian-inspired: Add grated ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil; top with slaw and spicy mayo
• Mexican/Southwest: Mix in chili powder and cumin; top with salsa, avocado, and cilantro-lime yogurt
• Indian-style: Use curry powder and garam masala; serve with cucumber raita and mango chutney

Storing and Reheating Chicken Burgers

How to Refrigerate and Freeze

• Raw patties: Shape and keep covered in the fridge for up to 24 hours (or 6-8 hours for best results).
• Cooked patties: Cool, then store in a closed container for up to 3 days.
• To freeze: Lay patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, freeze until hard, then move them to a freezer bag with parchment between each. Store up to 3 months and thaw in the fridge before using.
• Frozen cooked patties: Cool, wrap individually, freeze up to 3 months.

Reheating Without Losing Juiciness

• Skillet: Heat a little oil or water over medium-low, cover, and warm gently on both sides.
• Oven: 350°F (175°C), patties on a tray, tent with foil, heat for 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Use short bursts with a damp paper towel over the patty.

Defrost frozen patties in the fridge overnight for best texture.

Shelf Life and Safety

• Always cook chicken burgers to 165°F (74°C).
• Keep raw chicken away from other foods, use separate tools, and wash hands well.
• Thaw in the fridge, not at room temperature.
• Keep cooked burgers hot when serving lots of people.
• Cool leftovers quickly and store in shallow containers.

Chicken Burger FAQs

Can I Make Chicken Patties Ahead of Time?

• Mix up the burger mixture a day early and keep covered in the fridge.
• Shape patties and chill ahead for 6-24 hours for easier handling.
• Freeze raw or cooked patties for up to 3 months. Thaw before cooking or reheating.

Are Chicken Burgers Healthy?

• Chicken is lower in fat and calories than most beef blends, especially if you use breasts.
• Each patty gives you 20-30 grams of protein, with less saturated fat.
• Add grated veggies and fresh herbs to boost nutrition without extra fat.
• Limit heavy toppings or sauces if you want to keep things healthier.

How Do I Stop Patties from Falling Apart?

1. Use an egg and breadcrumbs to help the mixture stick.
2. Mix just until combined-don’t overwork it.
3. Chill patties in the fridge before cooking.
4. Wet your hands before shaping to keep the mix from sticking.
5. Handle gently, and don’t make them too thin.

Follow these tips for chicken patties that stay together and taste great, every time!