How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

If you’re craving a burger that perfectly balances crispy, juicy chicken with a spicy kick and smoky bacon, then you’re in for a treat. The Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon is a game-changer, combining bold flavors and textures that will make you forget all about typical burgers. This recipe lets you enjoy the crunchy crust of smashed chicken breasts alongside creamy, spicy mayo and crispy bacon, all tucked inside a soft bun. Ready to dive into one of the best homemade chicken burgers you’ll ever taste? Let’s get started!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor Combos: The perfect mix of spicy mayo and smokey bacon takes every bite to the next level.
• Crispy Yet Juicy Chicken: Smashed chicken breasts develop a crispy outer crust while remaining tender inside.
• Quick and Simple Prep: Minimal ingredients and straightforward steps mean you can have this burger ready fast.
• Perfect Texture Contrast: Crispy bacon and crunchy chicken instantly elevate the soft bun and smooth mayo.
• Customizable to Your Taste: Easy to adapt with different spices, toppings, or buns to suit your preferences.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These simple yet essential ingredients work together to create an unforgettable Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon. Each element plays a crucial role, from juicy chicken breasts to the creamy, spicy mayonnaise that ties everything together.

• Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless breasts are best for flattening and achieving that iconic crispy smash.
• Bacon Strips: Provides smoky crunch and savory richness to complement the chicken.
• Spicy Mayonnaise: Mayo blended with hot sauce or chili powder for that creamy heat boost.
• Burger Buns: Soft, lightly toasted buns hold all the ingredients perfectly without overpowering them.
• Lettuce and Tomato: Fresh, crunchy toppings add color and refreshing contrast.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and bringing out natural flavors.
• Butter or Oil: Used for cooking, ensuring a golden crust on the chicken and to toast buns.

Variations for Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

One of the best parts about the Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon is how easily it can be customized. Whether you want to add more heat, swap ingredients for healthier options, or tailor it to your dietary needs, this recipe is super adaptable.

• Cheese Option: Add a slice of melted cheddar or pepper jack for extra creaminess and flavor.
• Avocado Smash: Swap out lettuce for creamy avocado slices for a buttery twist.
• Spicy Kick Upgrade: Mix jalapeños or hot sauce directly into the chicken for more heat.
• Gluten-Free Buns: Use your favorite gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a light, allergy-friendly option.
• Vegetarian Take: Try smashed cauliflower or chickpea patties, keeping the spicy mayo and bacon substitute.

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How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Breasts

Start by pounding the chicken breasts to an even thickness, about half an inch, so they cook evenly. This also helps create a larger surface for a crispy crust when smashed. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s crisp but not burnt. Set aside on paper towels to drain excess fat. Save a little bacon grease for cooking the chicken if you want extra flavor.

Step 3: Smash and Cook the Chicken

Heat butter or a mix of butter and reserved bacon grease in the skillet over medium-high heat. Place each chicken breast in the skillet, pressing it firmly with a spatula until it’s about 1/4 inch thick. Cook 3-4 minutes per side or until golden and cooked through.

Step 4: Mix the Spicy Mayo

While the chicken cooks, combine mayonnaise with your choice of hot sauce, chili powder, or cayenne pepper. Adjust the spice level to taste for perfect creamy heat.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

Lightly toast your buns in the skillet to soak up some flavor and add crunch. Spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on both bun halves, add the smashed chicken, top with crispy bacon, and finish with fresh lettuce and tomato slices. Close it up and get ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

• Pound to Perfect Thickness: Ensures even cooking and that signature crispy crust with tender insides.
• Use Bacon Grease: Cooking chicken in bacon fat adds an irresistible smoky depth to your burger.
• Don’t Overload the Bun: Too many toppings can overpower the flavors and make the burger hard to eat.
• Toast Buns Well: Adds structure and a flavor boost that keeps sogginess at bay.
• Customize the Spicy Mayo: Gradually add spice to avoid overwhelming the palate.

How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like crisp iceberg lettuce and juicy tomato slices add balance and a refreshing crunch that complements the rich chicken and mayo. Thinly sliced red onions or pickles also bring acidity and brightness to the overall flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair your Smash Chicken Burger with spicy fries, crispy onion rings, or a simple coleslaw to round out the meal. For a lighter option, a fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the burger’s richness beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving mini sliders using smaller buns for parties or stack burgers with extra bacon and cheese for a towering treat. Wrapping your burger in parchment paper or serving it on a wooden board adds an Instagram-worthy casual vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Wrap your leftover Smash Chicken Burger tightly in foil or store each component separately in airtight containers to maintain freshness. The chicken is best stored chilled and eaten within 2 days.

Freezing

Chicken patties can be frozen before assembling the burger; flash freeze on a tray then transfer to freezer bags. Avoid freezing the buns and fresh garnishes for best texture.

Reheating

Reheat the chicken gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep it moist and crispy on the edges. Toast buns again before assembling leftover components to restore their softness and crunch.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes! Chicken thighs can be used for a juicier, more flavorful burger, but they might require a slightly longer cooking time and careful flattening for even cooking.

How spicy is the spicy mayo?

The spice level depends on the hot sauce or chili powder you use—start mild and adjust according to your personal heat preference for the perfect creamy kick.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, opt for gluten-free buns or serve the burger wrapped in lettuce, and ensure your mayo and seasonings don’t contain hidden gluten.

Can I make this burger vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute the chicken patty with smashed cauliflower or a chickpea-based patty and use plant-based bacon alternatives to keep the smoky crunch.

What’s the best way to get a crispy crust on the chicken?

Pressing the chicken firmly with a spatula on a hot skillet and cooking it without moving for several minutes helps create that irresistible crispy surface.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon. It’s a delicious blend of textures, bold flavors, and easy prep that’s perfect for any burger lover. Whether you’re cooking for a casual weeknight dinner or impressing friends at a weekend barbecue, this recipe brings unbeatable satisfaction every time. Give it a try and watch it quickly become your new favorite!

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