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
Scale
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.
