If you have been searching for a burger that hits all the right notes of flavor, texture, and spice, look no further than this Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe. This recipe brings together juicy smashed chicken patties infused with smoky paprika and Cajun spices, layered with melted cheddar, crispy bacon, and a zesty spicy mayo that wakes up every bite. From the toasted brioche buns to the fresh crunch of red onion, this burger is a deliciously satisfying meal you’ll be craving again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are the magic behind the perfect Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe. Simple yet thoughtfully chosen, each component adds something unique to build the flawless balance between savory, smoky, creamy, and spicy.
- Ground chicken: The lean but juicy base for tender, flavorful patties that smash perfectly in the pan.
- Egg: Acts as a binder to keep the patties juicy and intact while cooking.
- Breadcrumbs: Helps create a light texture and absorb moisture for the perfect patty consistency.
- Red bell pepper, finely diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and pleasant crunch to the mixture.
- Green onion, diced: Brings a mild onion flavor that brightens the overall taste.
- Smoked paprika: Infuses a warm smokiness that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- Cajun seasoning: Lends a spicy kick that sets this burger apart from the ordinary.
- Sea salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
- Garlic, finely chopped: Adds a savory depth you can almost taste with every bite.
- Avocado oil: The perfect high-heat oil to get a crisp sear on those patties without overpowering their flavor.
- Cheddar cheese slices: Melts beautifully over the patties for a creamy, rich layer.
- Bacon strips: Crisped and cut to add irresistible smoky crunch on top.
- Brioche buns: Soft, buttery buns toasted to perfection to cradle all the delicious fillings.
- Mayonnaise and sriracha: Combined to make the irresistibly tangy, spicy mayo that finishes the burger with a zing.
- Red onion slices: Adds a sharp, fresh contrast that balances the richness.
How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture
Start by combining ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, diced red bell pepper, green onion, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and finely chopped garlic in a large mixing bowl. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated. This mixture is bursting with layers of flavor and makes the perfect base for juicy patties.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture evenly into four portions and roll each one into a compact ball. These balls are what you will smash down in your hot skillet, so making them fairly tight helps achieve that perfect thin patty that cooks evenly and crisps around the edges.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat avocado oil over medium heat in a sturdy skillet. Place the chicken balls into the pan and press each down firmly with a spatula, smashing them into thin patties. Let them cook undisturbed for 4 to 5 minutes, allowing that golden crust to form, then flip them carefully.
Step 4: Add Cheese and Finish Cooking
Immediately after flipping, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty, then cover the skillet with a lid to trap the heat. This step melts the cheese while finishing the cooking process, ensuring the patties are cooked through and wonderfully cheesy on top.
Step 5: Prepare the Buns and Spicy Mayo
While the patties are cooking, toast your brioche buns lightly for a little crunch and warmth. Mix mayonnaise and sriracha to your preferred spicy level and spread this vibrant sauce generously over the cut sides of each bun half for that signature spicy mayo flavor.
Step 6: Assemble the Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe
On the bottom bun, place two cheesy chicken patties for an indulgent double stack. Add fresh red onion slices and top each with two pieces of crispy bacon. Crown with the top bun slathered in spicy mayo, and your burger masterpiece is ready to serve.
How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to add fresh lettuce leaves or crisp pickles to add even more color and crunch. A sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can also brighten the presentation and add a fresh aroma that complements the bold spices perfectly.
Side Dishes
This burger pairs beautifully with classic crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a refreshing coleslaw that balances heat with creaminess. For something lighter, try a simple mixed greens salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to keep the meal fresh and vibrant.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elevated presentation, serve your Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe open-faced on a rustic wooden board alongside small bowls of extra spicy mayo and pickled vegetables. Wrapping the burgers loosely in parchment paper lets your guests enjoy the juicy messiness without missing a beat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover patties and components can be stored separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keeping the buns and sauces separate prevents them from becoming soggy and keeps everything tasting fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked chicken patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and placed in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat to keep them juicy and crispy without drying out. Toast buns just before assembling to bring back their fresh-baked warmth, then add fresh toppings and spicy mayo for the full experience.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works similarly and will give you a slightly different but just as delicious flavor. Just be mindful that turkey tends to be leaner, so keep an eye on cooking times to avoid drying out the patties.
How spicy is the spicy mayo?
The heat level is entirely up to you. The recipe combines mayonnaise and sriracha, so you can adjust the ratio to be as mild or fiery as you like. It’s a flexible way to add zing without overwhelming the other flavors.
What’s the best way to get that crispy crust on the patties?
Use a hot skillet with a splash of high-heat oil like avocado oil, and don’t move the patties too soon. Pressing them down firmly and letting them sear undisturbed creates that perfect crispy golden crust you want on each side.
Can I make these burgers gluten-free?
Yes! Simply substitute the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Also, check your condiments and buns to ensure they are gluten-free.
Is it okay to cook the patties all the way through before adding cheese?
For maximum juiciness and melting, it’s best to add cheese immediately after flipping the patties and cover to let it melt as the chicken finishes cooking. This way, the cheese melts perfectly without overcooking the meat.
Final Thoughts
There is something incredibly satisfying about making and enjoying this Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe. It’s a fantastic way to shake up your usual burger routine with fresh flavors, bold spices, and that unbeatable crispy-cheesy combination. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be wanting to make it again for every casual dinner or weekend cookout. So grab your ingredients and get ready to dive into burger bliss!
Print
Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (2 burgers each)
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Smash Chicken Burger recipe features juicy, flavorful chicken patties seasoned with smoked paprika and Cajun spices, cooked to perfection on the stovetop. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, fresh red onion, and a spicy mayo-sriracha sauce, all nestled in toasted brioche buns for an irresistible homemade burger experience ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Chicken Patty Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
Cooking and Assembly
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice), more if needed
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 strips bacon, cooked and cut in half (making 4 pieces)
- 2 brioche buns, toasted
- Mayonnaise, as needed
- Sriracha, as needed
- Red onion, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, finely diced red bell pepper, diced green onion, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and finely chopped garlic. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring an even distribution of flavors throughout.
- Form the Patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball. This will help create evenly sized patties when flattened, ensuring consistent cooking time and texture.
- Cook the Patties: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken balls into the skillet and use a spatula to smash each ball flat to form thin patties. Cook for 4-5 minutes on one side without moving to get a nice sear, then carefully flip to the other side.
- Add Cheese: After flipping, place a slice of cheddar cheese over each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid to melt the cheese and continue cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked and reaches a safe internal temperature.
- Toast and Prepare Buns: While the patties are cooking, toast the brioche buns if desired until lightly browned and crisp. Drizzle mayonnaise and sriracha on each bun half and spread evenly using a butter knife for a creamy and spicy flavor base.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place two cheesy chicken patties onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with sliced red onions and two pieces of crispy bacon. Finish by placing the top bun on each burger. Serve immediately and enjoy the juicy, flavorful chicken smash burgers while hot.
Notes
- You can substitute the avocado oil with any neutral oil such as canola or vegetable oil.
- For a spicier burger, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add some chili powder to the mix.
- Make sure not to overmix the chicken to keep the patties tender and juicy.
- If you prefer, you can use turkey instead of chicken for a leaner option.
- Check the internal temperature of the patties with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach at least 165°F (74°C) for food safety.
