This Easy Cheesy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger packs a punch with zesty jalapeños and gooey pepper jack cheese. It’s juicy, tasty, and super fun to eat!
Honestly, who can resist a burger that’s spicy and cheesy all in one? I love topping mine with extra jalapeños for an extra kick. Get ready for flavor town! 🌶️🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken gives the burgers a lighter, juicy texture. If you’d like a richer flavor, you can substitute with ground turkey or even beef. Just keep in mind the cooking time may vary with different meats.
Jalapeño: Fresh jalapeños add that nice kick! If you prefer milder flavors, consider using bell peppers or poblano peppers. You could even use pickled jalapeños for a tangy twist.
Pepper Jack Cheese: I find that the pepper jack adds the perfect cheesiness with a hint of spice. If you can’t find it, try Monterey Jack cheese or even cheddar with diced jalapeños mixed in for a similar flavor.
Avocado: This adds creaminess. If avocados are out of season, you can use store-bought guacamole or sour cream. Yum! For a vegan option, try a cashew-based spread or hummus.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Burgers Stay Juicy?
Cooking chicken patties can be tricky as they can dry out quickly. Here are a few tips to make sure your burgers come out juicy every time:
- Don’t overmix the ground chicken; mix just until combined.
- Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty before cooking to help them cook evenly.
- Cook over medium-high heat, ensuring a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness.
- Cover the pan in the last few minutes to trap steam and melt the cheese nicely.
Following these steps will help you achieve perfectly juicy burgers every time!
Easy Cheesy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 jalapeño, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese, plus extra slices for topping
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Assembling:
- 4 burger buns, toasted
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed (for guacamole)
- 1 tbsp lime juice (for guacamole)
- 4 leaves of lettuce
- 1 large tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced
- Mayonnaise or chipotle mayo, for spreading
- Cooking oil (olive or vegetable oil)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burger recipe will take approximately 30 minutes to prepare and cook, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. You’ll spend about 10 minutes mixing and forming the patties and 20 minutes cooking and assembling. It’s quick, easy, and sure to impress!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped jalapeño, shredded pepper jack cheese, onion, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until everything is evenly combined. You want each bite to be flavorful!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently form each into a patty that’s about ¾ inch thick. Don’t press too hard; you want them to stay tender!
3. Cook the Chicken Patties:
Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat and lightly oil it. Cook the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side. They are ready when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a lovely golden-brown color.
4. Melt the Cheese:
During the last 2 minutes of cooking, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty and cover the pan to help melt the cheese perfectly!
5. Make the Guacamole:
While the patties are cooking, prepare your guacamole. In a small bowl, mash the avocado with lime juice and a pinch of salt for flavor!
6. Toast the Buns:
Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown and a little crispy. This will help keep your burger nice and firm.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread mayonnaise or chipotle mayo on the top and bottom of each bun. Start with a leaf of lettuce on the bottom bun, then add a slice of tomato and red onion. Place the cheesy jalapeño chicken patty on top, and spoon a generous layer of guacamole over the melted cheese.
8. Serve and Enjoy!
Cover with the top bun and serve immediately. Enjoy your spicy, cheesy delight alongside fries or your favorite sides. Happy eating!
Easy Cheesy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger FAQ
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still keep your burgers moist and flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as turkey may require a bit longer to cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Can I Reduce the Spice Level?
If you prefer a milder burger, simply remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño, as most of the heat is found there. You can also opt for milder cheese, like Monterey Jack, or reduce the amount of jalapeños in the recipe.
Can I Make These Burgers in Advance?
Yes, you can! Shape the patties and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. You can also freeze them uncooked for up to 3 months. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over low heat, in the microwave, or on the grill until warmed through. Just be careful not to overcook them!
