These Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers are packed with flavor! Juicy chicken meets spicy jalapeños and creamy Pepper Jack cheese for a delicious bite every time.
They’re perfect for a summer cookout or a quick dinner. I love how easy they are to make—just mix, form, and grill! Who doesn’t love a burger that gives you a little kick? 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of the burger. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey or beef for a different flavor and texture.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeños add a great kick. If you want less heat, remove the seeds and membranes. You can also swap in other peppers like poblano for a milder option.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese brings creaminess and spice. If it’s not available, try Monterey Jack mixed with a bit of hot sauce, or even cheddar for a classic twist.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the mixture together. You can use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed crackers if you need a gluten-free option.
Avocado: I love how creamy avocado is in this burger, but you could also use guacamole if you have some on hand or skip it entirely!
How Do I Keep My Burgers From Drying Out?
To keep these chicken burgers juicy, focus on mixing the ingredients gently. Over-mixing can lead to dry burgers.
- Always use ground chicken, which is leaner. Adding breadcrumbs and an egg helps retain moisture.
- Form patties of equal size for even cooking. Aim for a thickness of about 3/4 inch.
- Cook them at a medium-high heat but avoid cooking too long. Aim for about 5-6 minutes per side.
- Consider covering the patties for the last minute with cheese. This keeps in moisture while adding flavor.
With these tips, you’ll have delicious, juicy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers! Enjoy the burst of flavors!
How to Make Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 fresh jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/2 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 1 avocado, mashed (for guacamole or topping)
- Mayonnaise or aioli, as desired
- 4 slices tomato
- Sliced red onions
- Lettuce leaves
- Optional: pickles or other preferred toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12 minutes to cook. You’ll get delicious, juicy burgers ready in about half an hour!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped jalapeño, Pepper Jack cheese, onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix these ingredients gently but thoroughly. Be careful not to over-mix; this will keep the burgers tender.
2. Form the Patties:
Take the chicken mixture and form it into 4 equal-sized patties, about 3/4 inch thick. Make them uniform in size for even cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they are nicely browned and their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Add Cheese in the Final Minute:
If you’re a cheese lover, during the last minute of cooking, place extra Pepper Jack cheese slices on top of the patties to melt perfectly.
5. Toast the Buns:
Meanwhile, toast your hamburger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster for that perfect crunch.
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Spread mayonnaise or aioli on the top bun. Add the cooked chicken patty, mashed avocado, slices of tomato, red onion rings, and lettuce. Feel free to add pickles or any other toppings you enjoy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Place the top bun on your assembled burger and serve immediately with sides like crinkle-cut fries and ketchup. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy, and flavorful Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield delicious results. Just be sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as ground turkey may need just a minute or two longer.
How Can I Reduce the Spice Level?
If you want to tone down the spice in these burgers, make sure to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño before chopping. You can also use a milder pepper like a bell pepper or skip the jalapeño altogether.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chicken mixture and form the patties a few hours in advance. Store them covered in the fridge until you’re ready to cook. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before cooking to ensure even cooking.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quick option.
