Smash Chicken Burger

Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.

The smash chicken burger became a household favorite during a summer BBQ a few years ago. I wanted something hearty yet different, so I decided to experiment with ground chicken. The result was a juicy, flavorful burger that surprised everyone. Each bite brought crispy bacon and melted cheese together with the tender chicken patty, creating a delightful experience.

Sharing this dish with friends has made it a staple at gatherings. The simplicity of the ingredients allows anyone to recreate it with ease. Smash chicken burgers highlight how wonderfully ground chicken can transform meals. Today, I’ll take you through the steps to craft your perfect smash chicken burger and share some tips to elevate it even further.

In just a few minutes, you can enjoy a delicious meal that’s both satisfying and crowd-pleasing. Let’s dive right in!

Smash Chicken Burger Fundamentals

Preparation/setup

Before diving into the cooking, make sure to gather all your ingredients and gear. You’ll need a good skillet, a spatula, and a mixing bowl. Preparing your workspace keeps everything organized and ensures you can focus solely on creating that perfect smash chicken burger. The beauty of this burger is in its simplicity; you’ll only need a few common ingredients to produce something extraordinary.

Ingredients

The list of ingredients for your smash chicken burger is minimal but impactful. You’ll require:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices of cheese (cheddar or your choice)
• 4 strips of crispy bacon
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• Spicy mayo (store-bought or homemade)
• 4 burger buns, buttery and toasted

These ingredients not only create a great flavor profile but also add fun textures—think crispy bacon paired with melty cheese on a warm bun.

Directions

1. In a bowl, mix the ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Form the mixture into patties, ensuring they are compact yet not overworked.
3. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the patties carefully.
4. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side until fully cooked and golden brown.
5. During the last minute of cooking, place cheese slices on top of the patties to melt.
6. Meanwhile, in another pan, cook the bacon until crispy.
7. Assemble the burgers by spreading spicy mayo on the bottom bun, adding the chicken patty, bacon, and red onion slices.
8. Top with the other half of the bun, serve warm, and enjoy!

Elevating Your Smash Chicken Burger

Technique

To elevate your smash chicken burger, focus on the cooking technique. The key is to allow the chicken patties to sear properly. Don’t rush the cooking process; letting them sit on the skillet helps form a delicious crust. The interplay of the high heat and the natural moisture in the chicken creates an incredible texture that complements the other ingredients.

Tips/tricks

A few tips can greatly enhance your burger-making experience. First, mix the seasonings thoroughly into the chicken so every bite is packed with flavor. Also, consider using a burger press or a large spatula to smash the patties down slightly in the skillet for an even cook.

If you’re feeling adventurous, try using different seasoning blends to tweak the flavor. Barbecue spices or Cajun seasoning can offer delightful alternatives to the classic garlic and onion powders.

Perfecting Your Smash Chicken Burger

Perfecting results

To achieve the perfect smash chicken burger, monitor the internal temperature of the patties. They should reach 165°F to ensure they’re fully cooked. This attention to detail not only guarantees safety but also keeps your chicken juicy and tender.

Don’t hesitate to make slight adjustments based on your preferences. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add more spices or opt for pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar. The beauty of cooking lies in making the dish uniquely yours!

Troubleshooting/variations

In case your patties seem too dry, verify you did not overcook them. Monitoring the cooking time closely will help maintain moisture. If you decide to experiment with different types of ground chicken, leaner blends might also lead to drier burgers, so adjust seasonings accordingly.

Don’t shy away from variations! Add cooked sautéed mushrooms, or even some fresh herbs to the meat mixture for an unexpected twist. Spice lovers might appreciate a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes mixed into the chicken for a little kick.

Serving and Presentation of Your Smash Chicken Burger

Serving/presentation

For an inviting presentation, serve your smash chicken burger on a toasted bun with cravings in mind. A warm buttery bun elevates the dish, enhancing the overall experience. You can even add a slice of pickle or a handful of fresh greens for extra color and crunch.

Opt for a vibrant plate or basket to serve your burgers. Pair it with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal. The visual appeal of your food not only excites the eyes but also sets the tone for a wonderful dining experience.

Pairings/storage

Pair your smash chicken burger with a refreshing soda or iced tea—something to cleanse the palate. If you have any leftovers, store the chicken patties in an airtight container. They can last in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat them gently on the stove, ensuring they remain juicy and regain their delightful texture.

Consider making the spicy mayo ahead of time and keeping it in the fridge. It’ll deepen in flavor as it sits, making your next burger even better!

Conclusion

The smash chicken burger is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing for endless variations and delicious combinations. With its combination of juicy chicken, crispy bacon, and melted cheese, you’ll find these burgers satisfy your cravings each time. Perfect for casual dinners or weekend barbecues, this burger recipe serves as a reliable go-to for any occasion. Enjoy creating and sharing this wonderful dish with family and friends!

Print