Ground Chicken Smash Burgers

This ground chicken smash burger recipe delivers restaurant-quality flavor with budget-friendly poultry. If you've struggled with dry chicken burgers in the past, this smashing technique transforms basic ground chicken into juicy, crispy-edged patties that might just replace your beef burgers.

I created this recipe when my daughter wanted burgers but had developed a beef sensitivity. These chicken smash burgers have become our Friday night tradition when we want something that feels indulgent without the heaviness of traditional burgers.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: Offers a leaner alternative to beef while still delivering satisfying flavor
• American cheese: Melts perfectly for that classic burger experience
• Brioche buns: Provide a buttery soft texture that elevates any burger
• Mayo: Creates a protective barrier that helps the buns toast beautifully
• Fresh toppings: Like lettuce, tomato, and pickles add necessary texture and brightness

The quality of your ground chicken matters significantly. Look for packages with some fat content rather than ultra-lean versions that will dry out during cooking.

How To Make Ground Chicken Smash Burgers

Prep your toppings:

Wash and chop lettuce, slice tomatoes, and gather condiments before cooking. Having everything ready creates a smooth assembly process and ensures you can serve the burgers at their peak temperature.

Season the chicken:

Pat ground chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Divide into 2-ounce portions without overworking the meat. Season each portion with salt and pepper allowing the natural flavor to shine through.

Toast the buns:

Spread a thin layer of mayo on both cut sides of each brioche bun. Place them cut-side down on a hot griddle until golden brown with crisp edges. The mayo helps achieve an even toast that protects the bun from getting soggy.

Smash the patties:

Place chicken portions on a hot oiled surface. Cover with parchment and press firmly with a spatula to create thin patties about 4-5 inches wide. The thinness is crucial for developing crispy edges and ensuring thorough cooking.

Cook and stack:

Cook the first side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown then flip. Add cheese to half the patties and cook for another 60-90 seconds. Stack a plain patty onto each cheese-topped patty for perfect double burgers.

Assemble:

Place the double patties on your toasted buns and add your preferred toppings. Serve immediately to enjoy the contrast between the warm patties and cool fresh ingredients.

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I discovered the magic of mayo-toasted buns from my grandmother who always said the difference between a good burger and a great one is in the details. Even when our family gathers for big cookouts the adults often sneak these chicken burgers onto their plates alongside the traditional beef options.

Smart Substitutions

Ground turkey can replace chicken with nearly identical results if that's what you have on hand. If using turkey, increase the cooking time by about 30 seconds per side as it sometimes requires slightly longer to cook through. For a Mediterranean twist, mix herbs like oregano and mint into the meat before forming patties.

Storage Tips

These burgers are best enjoyed immediately after cooking. However, if you need to store leftovers, keep the components separate. Refrigerate cooked patties in an airtight container for up to three days, reheating in a covered skillet with a few drops of water to maintain moisture. Toast fresh buns just before serving for the best texture.

Make-Ahead Options

You can portion and season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Keep the portions separated on a parchment-lined tray covered with plastic wrap in the refrigerator. This prep work makes cooking night a breeze with almost instant burgers ready for the table.

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Serving Suggestions

These chicken smash burgers pair beautifully with crispy sweet potato fries or a light vinaigrette-dressed coleslaw. For a complete meal, add a simple side salad with cucumber and radish to balance the richness of the burgers. During summer months, grilled corn on the cob makes a perfect companion, offering sweetness that complements the savory patties.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ How do I keep the chicken patties juicy?

Make sure to pat the chicken dry and avoid overmixing or compressing the meat. Cooking the patties quickly on high heat also helps retain moisture.

→ Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While American cheese melts beautifully, you can use cheddar, Swiss, or any cheese you prefer for a unique flavor.

→ How should I toast the brioche buns?

Spread a thin layer of mayo on both sides of each bun and toast them face down in a hot skillet until golden brown.

→ What toppings work best for these burgers?

Shredded iceberg lettuce, tomato slices, pickles, and a good burger sauce are excellent choices, but feel free to customize with your favorites.

→ Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

It’s best to cook these burgers just before serving for optimal freshness, but you can prepare the toppings and buns ahead for quick assembly.