There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade burger — especially one that goes a little off the beaten path. These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a far cry from your average beef patty. They’re juicy, flavorful, and packed with goodness, making them a regular favorite in our household, especially during the warmer months when grilling becomes a weekend ritual.
This recipe actually came about one summer when we wanted something hearty but not too heavy — something satisfying without the usual greasiness of a traditional burger. That’s when the idea for a chicken burger started to simmer, and the moment white cheddar and spinach entered the equation, it was love at first bite. We served them at a family cookout and they vanished off the plate before the buns even had a chance to get cold. Since then, they’ve been a go-to whenever we want something that feels indulgent but still packed with wholesome ingredients.
The combination of tender ground chicken, vibrant chopped spinach, and melty sharp white cheddar is a total win — and it doesn’t hurt that these burgers are both nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you grill them outside or cook them on the stovetop, they hold their shape beautifully and deliver major flavor in every bite. These are the kinds of burgers that make weeknight dinners feel special, and backyard get-togethers feel a little more elevated.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Wholesome and Flavorful – Lean ground chicken mixed with earthy spinach and creamy white cheddar makes a winning combo.
- Quick and Easy – No complicated steps or ingredients, just simple mixing and cooking.
- Family-Friendly – Even picky eaters love them, especially when they’re served with toasted buns and their favorite toppings.
- Great for Meal Prep – Make a batch and freeze the patties for easy meals during the week.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup packed fresh spinach, finely chopped
- 1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- Burger buns and toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
HOW TO MAKE WHITE CHEDDAR AND SPINACH CHICKEN BURGERS:
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, white cheddar, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. It’s going to feel a little sticky — that’s okay! I like to use my hands to gently mix everything together. It’s the best way to evenly distribute the ingredients without overworking the mixture, which can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Once everything is combined, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties. If they’re sticking to your hands, a little olive oil on your palms can help. You want them about 1/2-inch thick so they cook evenly but still stay juicy.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Don’t press them down with your spatula — that releases all the good juices!
Step 4: Toast the Buns (Optional but Worth It)
While the burgers are cooking, toast your buns. Just a minute or two in a dry skillet or on the grill gives them that warm, crispy edge that takes the whole burger up a notch.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Layer the chicken patties on your toasted buns with your favorite toppings. We love ours with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and creamy avocado. A little Dijon mustard or garlic aioli doesn’t hurt either.
HELPFUL TIPS:
- Chop the spinach finely so it blends seamlessly into the patties.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure the patties are fully cooked — 165°F is your magic number.
- Add moisture if needed — if your chicken is on the leaner side, a tablespoon of olive oil or plain Greek yogurt in the mixture can keep the burgers extra juicy.
- Make ahead tip: These patties freeze beautifully. Shape them, place them between layers of parchment, and store in a freezer-safe bag. Cook straight from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cook time.
DETAILS:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop or Grill
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: High Protein
NOTES:
You can easily customize these burgers to your liking. Try mixing in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, or swap in a different cheese if white cheddar isn’t your thing (though its sharpness really is lovely here). Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION: (Approximate per burger, without bun or toppings)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 28g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sugar: 1g
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS:
Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?
Yes, but be sure to thaw it completely and squeeze out all the excess moisture so it doesn’t make the patties soggy.
Can I grill these burgers?
Absolutely! Just be sure your grill grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Use medium heat and cook for about 6 minutes per side.
What’s the best cheese substitute if I don’t have white cheddar?
Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even crumbled feta can work well depending on your flavor preference.
STORAGE INSTRUCTIONS:
- Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze uncooked patties between layers of parchment for up to 2 months. Cook from frozen, adding a few minutes to the cooking time.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Related Recipes
If you liked this recipe, you’ll definitely enjoy these other cheesy delights:
- Crab and Lobster Seafood Rolls
- Ultimate Steak Burritos
- White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
- Garlic Confit Avocado Toast with Lemon Zest and Pomegranate
CONCLUSION
These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are the kind of dish that bridges comfort and nutrition in the best way. They’re easy enough for a weeknight dinner but tasty enough to serve at a summer barbecue. With their juicy texture, bold cheesy flavor, and that hint of green from the spinach, they just might become a new favorite in your home too. Try them once and you’ll see — these burgers are anything but ordinary.
Print
White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
Description
There’s something undeniably comforting about a homemade burger — especially one that goes a little off the beaten path. These White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers are a far cry from your average beef patty. They’re juicy, flavorful, and packed with goodness, making them a regular favorite in our household, especially during the warmer months when grilling becomes a weekend ritual.
This recipe actually came about one summer when we wanted something hearty but not too heavy — something satisfying without the usual greasiness of a traditional burger. That’s when the idea for a chicken burger started to simmer, and the moment white cheddar and spinach entered the equation, it was love at first bite. We served them at a family cookout and they vanished off the plate before the buns even had a chance to get cold. Since then, they’ve been a go-to whenever we want something that feels indulgent but still packed with wholesome ingredients.
The combination of tender ground chicken, vibrant chopped spinach, and melty sharp white cheddar is a total win — and it doesn’t hurt that these burgers are both nutritious and easy to prepare. Whether you grill them outside or cook them on the stovetop, they hold their shape beautifully and deliver major flavor in every bite. These are the kinds of burgers that make weeknight dinners feel special, and backyard get-togethers feel a little more elevated.
Ingredients
1 lb ground chicken
1 cup packed fresh spinach, finely chopped
1 cup shredded white cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
1/2 tsp onion powder
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp black pepper
1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
Burger buns and toppings of choice (lettuce, tomato, avocado, etc.)
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, white cheddar, garlic, breadcrumbs, egg, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. It’s going to feel a little sticky — that’s okay! I like to use my hands to gently mix everything together. It’s the best way to evenly distribute the ingredients without overworking the mixture, which can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Once everything is combined, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape them into burger patties. If they’re sticking to your hands, a little olive oil on your palms can help. You want them about 1/2-inch thick so they cook evenly but still stay juicy.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Don’t press them down with your spatula — that releases all the good juices!
Step 4: Toast the Buns (Optional but Worth It)
While the burgers are cooking, toast your buns. Just a minute or two in a dry skillet or on the grill gives them that warm, crispy edge that takes the whole burger up a notch.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Layer the chicken patties on your toasted buns with your favorite toppings. We love ours with crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and creamy avocado. A little Dijon mustard or garlic aioli doesn’t hurt either.
Notes
You can easily customize these burgers to your liking. Try mixing in chopped sun-dried tomatoes, a sprinkle of chili flakes for heat, or swap in a different cheese if white cheddar isn’t your thing (though its sharpness really is lovely here). Serve with sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.