The Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger is a delightful twist on a classic dish, perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or game day gatherings. This burger features juicy chicken infused with smoky chipotle peppers and spices that deliver a punch of flavor. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking indoors, this recipe is sure to impress everyone at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavors: The combination of chipotle peppers and spices makes every bite packed with a smoky kick.
• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this burger in no time.
• Versatile Options: Customize your burger with toppings like jalapeños, lettuce, and tomatoes to suit your taste.
• Healthy Protein: Made with ground chicken, this burger offers a lean protein option that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 25 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill or large skillet
• Mixing bowl
• Spatula
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill or large skillet: Essential for perfectly cooking the burgers while achieving that nice sear.
• Mixing bowl: Helps combine all ingredients evenly for flavorful patties.
• Spatula: Perfect for flipping the burgers without breaking them apart.
• Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked safely to 165°F (75°C) for optimal texture and flavor.

this recipe

Ingredients

For the Burger Patties

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
• 1 egg

For the Sauce

• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

For Assembly

• 4 burger buns, toasted
• 4 slices of pepper jack cheese (optional, for extra heat)
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Pickled jalapeños (optional, for extra spice)

How to Make Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Step 1: Prepare the Patties

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and egg.
2. Mix until well combined but do not overmix.

Step 2: Cook the Patties

• Grill Method: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Shape the mixture into patties and cook for about 5 minutes on each side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Stovetop Method: Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.

Step 3: Prepare the Sauce

• While patties are cooking, mix mayonnaise with chopped chipotle pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers

• Toast the burger buns if desired. Spread the chipotle mayo sauce on each bun. Layer with lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, red onions, pickled jalapeños (if using), and finally add your cooked chicken patties. Top with cheese if desired.

Enjoy your deliciously spicy creation!

How to Serve Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Serving your Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to complement the flavors of this zesty burger.

With Fresh Toppings

• Lettuce and Tomato: Crisp lettuce and juicy tomato slices add a refreshing crunch.
• Sliced Red Onions: Thinly sliced red onions provide a sharp bite that balances the spice.
• Pickled Jalapeños: For those who love heat, these add an extra kick and tanginess.

On a Bed of Greens

• Mixed Greens Salad: Serve your burger on a bed of mixed greens for a lighter option.
• Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw can offer a cool contrast to the spiciness of the burger.

With Dipping Sauces

• Chipotle Mayonnaise: Use the leftover chipotle mayo for dipping fries or veggies.
• Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip pairs beautifully with the burger’s flavors.

How to Perfect Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Perfecting your Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger involves careful attention to flavors and cooking methods. Here are some tips to ensure you achieve burger greatness.

• Bold Seasonings: Don’t be shy with spices; they enhance the flavor profile significantly.
• Moisture Matters: Adding breadcrumbs and an egg keeps the patties juicy and tender.
• Grill or Sear: Choose either grilling or stovetop cooking based on your preference for smoky or crispy textures.
• Rest Before Serving: Letting the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking helps lock in juices.

Best Side Dishes for Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Pairing side dishes with your Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger can make your meal complete. Here are some delicious options that work well together.

1. Sweet Potato Fries: A healthier alternative to regular fries, they add sweetness that complements the spice.
2. Corn on the Cob: Grilled or steamed corn brings a delightful crunch and natural sweetness.
3. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers a comforting side that balances out the heat of the burger.
4. Baked Beans: These hearty beans are sweet and savory, making them a perfect match for spicy dishes.
5. Onion Rings: Crispy onion rings add texture and flavor, enhancing your burger experience.
6. Vegetable Skewers: Colorful grilled vegetable skewers provide freshness and nutrition alongside your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Skipping the seasoning: Many people forget to season their ground chicken adequately. Always use spices like smoked paprika and cumin to enhance flavor.
• Overcooking the patties: Cooking the patties too long can dry them out. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C) for perfect juiciness.
• Not using breadcrumbs: Omitting breadcrumbs can lead to crumbly patties. They provide structure, so be sure to include them for better texture.
• Ignoring the toppings: A burger is only as good as its toppings. Don’t skip fresh ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, and pickled jalapeños for added flavor and crunch.
• Using stale buns: Freshness matters! Using toasted, fresh burger buns will elevate the entire meal. Always check your buns before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked burgers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Keep any leftover chipotle mayo separately in a jar or container.

Freezing Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

• Wrap uncooked patties tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• Label bags with the date for easy identification.

Reheating Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place patties on a baking tray and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over low heat with a drizzle of oil for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes! Ground turkey is a great alternative that works well with the same spices and flavors.

What can I substitute for breadcrumbs?

For a gluten-free option, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as a binding agent in your burgers.

How spicy is the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger?

The spice level can be adjusted based on how many chipotle peppers you use. For milder flavor, reduce the amount of chipotles or omit them entirely.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator or freeze them for later cooking.

Final Thoughts

The Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try—you won’t be disappointed!

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Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

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• Author: Adeline
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in the bold flavors of the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger, a must-try twist on a classic dish that brings excitement to any meal. This juicy chicken burger is infused with smoky chipotle peppers and aromatic spices, delivering a delightful kick with every bite. Perfect for cookouts, weeknight dinners, or game-day gatherings, this recipe is not only easy to prepare but also customizable with your favorite toppings. With a quick cooking time of just 25 minutes, you can serve up deliciousness without the fuss. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this flavorful creation!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (for sauce)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (for sauce)
• Salt to taste (for sauce)
• 4 burger buns, toasted
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Pickled jalapeños (optional)

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Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape into patties and cook on a preheated grill or skillet for about 5 minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
3. While cooking the patties, mix mayonnaise with additional chopped chipotle pepper and lime juice for the sauce.
4. Toast burger buns if desired and assemble by spreading chipotle mayo on each bun and layering with fresh toppings.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Grilling/Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 burger (200g)
• Calories: 465
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 720mg
• Fat: 24g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 37g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Keywords: For added heat, include more chipotle peppers in your mixture or sauce. Substitute ground turkey for ground chicken for a different flavor profile. Serve on a bed of greens for a lighter option or pair with sweet potato fries.