Description
Juicy Spinach Chicken Burgers with Pesto and Mozzarella are a quick and healthy meal combining lean ground chicken, fresh spinach, aromatic basil pesto, and creamy mozzarella cheese. These flavorful burgers are perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, offering a nutritious and delicious option that pleases the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground chicken
- 1 cup fresh spinach, rinsed, chopped, and drained
- 2 tablespoons basil pesto
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 large egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 soft burger buns (gluten-free if preferred)
Optional Toppings
- Tomato slices
- Lettuce leaves
- Extra basil pesto
Instructions
- Prepare the Spinach and Moisturize: Rinse fresh spinach thoroughly and chop finely. Lightly sauté or blanch the spinach to remove excess moisture, then pat dry completely to prevent soggy patties.
- Combine the Burger Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, chopped spinach, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, salt, pepper, and pesto until well incorporated but not overmixed.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Form each portion into a round patty about ¾ inch thick, making a slight indentation in the center for even cooking.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium heat with a small drizzle of olive oil. Cook each patty for 5-6 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). During the last minute, place a slice of mozzarella on each patty and cover the pan to melt the cheese perfectly.
- Assemble and Serve: Lightly toast the burger buns. Spread a generous layer of pesto on the bottom buns, add the cooked patties topped with melted mozzarella, then add desired toppings like tomato and lettuce. Cover with the top buns and serve immediately.
Notes
- Drain the spinach well to avoid soggy patties.
- Do not overmix the burger mixture to keep the texture tender.
- Let patties rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking for better firmness and flavor melding.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure burgers are cooked to 165°F for safety and juiciness.
- Cover the pan when melting mozzarella to create steam and achieve a perfect melt.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling/Stovetop Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg