Grilled Chicken Burger Recipe – A Perfect, Quick and Easy Meal
Jennifer
If you’re looking for a wholesome, delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion, this Garlic Grilled Chicken Burger is your answer. Packed with perfectly seasoned chicken, creamy avocado, caramelized onions, and zesty garlic mayo, this burger delivers restaurant-quality flavor in every bite. Let’s explore how to make this tasty Chicken burger at home.
IN This Post:
History of Grilled Chicken Burger:
The Grilled Chicken Burger is a modern culinary twist on the traditional hamburger. While burgers date back to the late 19th century, chicken burgers emerged as a healthier alternative during the 20th century as people sought lighter yet flavorful meal options. The concept of grilling chicken for sandwiches gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s alongside the rise of outdoor barbecues in American culture.
With global influences shaping recipes, the addition of garlic, avocado, and other gourmet toppings became more common, elevating the humble chicken burger to a sophisticated dining experience. Today, Grilled Chicken Burgers are celebrated worldwide for their versatility and ability to cater to diverse tastes and dietary preferences.
Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chicken Burger:
- Healthier Choice: Lean chicken breasts make this burger a lighter yet satisfying option.
- Customizable: Adjust toppings and sauces to suit your personal preferences.
- Perfect Flavor Combination: The garlic mayo and seasoned chicken create an irresistible taste.
- Quick to Make: Ready in under 35 minutes, ideal for weeknight dinners.
- Versatile Cooking Options: Grill it outdoors or cook it on a stovetop for year-round enjoyment.
Tips and Tricks for Success:
- Even Thickness: Pound the chicken to ensure uniform cooking.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Let the chicken rest after cooking to lock in juices.
- Toast the Buns: Lightly toasted buns prevent sogginess and add texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic, avocado, and quality chicken elevate the flavors.
- Avoid Overcrowding: Cook chicken in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.
How To Make This Grilled Chicken Burger Recipe:
Grilled Chicken Burger Recipe – A Perfect, Quick And Easy Meal
Equipment
- Mixing Bowls
- Cast-iron skillet or grill
- Spatula
- Meat mallet (optional)
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Baking tray (for buns)
Ingredients
Garlic Mayo:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1 clove garlic minced or grated
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
Chicken Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Burgers:
- 2 chicken breasts pounded to 1 cm (2/5″) thickness
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
- 1 medium onion sliced
- 4 slices cheese e.g., cheddar, Swiss, or mozzarella
- 4 burger rolls split and lightly toasted
- 1 ripe avocado mashed
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Lettuce leaves
- 1 tomato sliced
Instructions
- Prepare Garlic Mayo: Combine mayonnaise, minced garlic, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Cover and set aside for at least 20 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Season and Prepare Chicken: Mix paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a shallow dish If needed, pound chicken breasts to an even thickness of about 1 cm trim chicken slightly larger than bun size (it will shrink when cooked).
- Cook Onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over high heat. Add sliced onion and sauté for 5 minutes or until golden brown season with salt and pepper, then set aside.
- Toast Buns: Preheat the oven to 160°C (320°F). Toast burger buns until lightly crispy and leave them in the oven (turned off) to stay warm.
- Cook Chicken: Heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in the same skillet over high heat. Dredge chicken in the seasoning mixture, shaking off excess, and place in the skillet. Cook for 2 1/2 minutes on one side until golden. Flip, top with cheese (if using), and cook for another 1 1/2 minutes. Cover briefly if the cheese hasn’t melted. Transfer chicken to a plate and cover loosely with foil to rest.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread mashed avocado on the bottom half of each bun and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Layer with cooked chicken, caramelized onions, lettuce, and tomato slices. Spread garlic mayo on the top half of the bun and place it on top.
- Serve: Serve immediately with a side of fries, salad, or your favorite sides.
Notes
- Smoky Flavor: Add a few drops of liquid smoke to the chicken seasoning mix or try grilling over charcoal for an extra smoky taste.
- Thawing Frozen Chicken: Ensure frozen chicken is completely thawed and patted dry to help it absorb seasoning better and cook evenly.
- Preventing Avocado Browning: Mix a teaspoon of lemon or lime juice into the mashed avocado to keep it fresh and vibrant.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free burger buns or lettuce wraps to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder to the seasoning mix if you enjoy heat. Alternatively, drizzle sriracha over the assembled burger for an extra kick.
- Cheese Melting Tip: If the cheese doesn’t melt completely on the skillet, transfer the chicken to a preheated oven for a minute or two.
- Cooking Oil Alternatives: Use avocado oil or ghee for a richer flavor instead of olive oil.
- Portion Adjustment: If serving a larger crowd, double the ingredients. You can cook the chicken in batches to maintain consistent results.
- Customizing Toppings: Feel free to experiment with toppings such as pickled onions, roasted red peppers, or even pineapple slices for a unique twist.
- Serving Ideas: Serve these burgers with sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a light green salad for a complete meal.
| Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 520 kcal |
| Protein | 35g |
| Total Fat | 30g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 6g |
Tips and Variations:
- Avocado Alternatives: Replace avocado with guacamole or a dollop of sour cream for a tangy twist.
- Cheese Choices: Swap cheddar with Swiss, provolone, or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.
- Bun Options: Use brioche, whole-grain buns, or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
- Add Spice: Include a dash of cayenne in the seasoning mix or top the burger with jalapeños.
- Onion Varieties: Caramelize red onions for a sweeter flavor or use raw onions for a crunchier texture.
- Garlic Mayo Substitute: Try chipotle mayo or tzatziki for a unique sauce variation.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Yes, sure you can prepare the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and reheat slowly before assembling the burger.
Absolutely! Chicken thighs gives a juicier and perfect texture and work very well.
Reheat the chicken and buns separately in a skillet or oven to maintain texture and flavor.
Yes, grilling adds a smoky flavor and is a great alternative to skillet cooking.
Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative to make this recipe dairy-free.
Bacon, pickles, or jalapeños are excellent additions to customize your burger.
This Grilled Chicken Burger combines bold flavors and fresh ingredients for a satisfying, nutritious, and utterly delicious meal. Perfect for casual dinners or special gatherings, it’s a surefire way to impress family and friends. Fire up your skillet or grill and give this recipe a try today!
Don’t forget to check out other Chicken-Burger recipes and to share your results and leave a comment below—we’d love to hear your feedback!
