Smash Chicken Burger Recipe

Ready to make burger night unforgettable? This Smash Chicken Burger recipe is all the proof you need that homemade burgers can be juicy, packed with flavor, and—most importantly—completely doable on even the busiest evenings. Picture a savory, golden crust on each chicken patty, melty cheese oozing down the sides, and crispy bacon sandwiched between toasty buns with tangy, spicy sauce. It’s every bit as mouthwatering as it sounds, and you’ll have dinner on the table in less than 30 minutes. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite weeknight meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Effortless: With minimal prep and speedy cooking, these burgers are weeknight heroes.
• Flavor-Packed: The combo of smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, and fresh veggies makes every bite a flavor explosion.
• Juicy and Satisfying: Ground chicken stays wonderfully moist, while the smash technique creates those irresistible crispy edges.
• Customizable: You have total control over toppings and sauces, making it easy to suit everyone at the table.
• Fun to Make: Smashing patties in the skillet adds a little fun and ensures maximum surface caramelization.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to build these crave-worthy burgers, plus a few notes to guarantee flavor perfection:

• Ground Chicken: Go for fresh, not frozen, for ultimate juiciness. Ground chicken soaks up all the seasoning.
• Egg: Acts as a binder, keeping patties moist and together.
• Breadcrumbs: Adds texture and helps the patties hold their shape while cooking.
• Red Bell Pepper (finely diced): Sweet, juicy bites add brightness and a bit of crunch.
• Green Onion: Offers a mild oniony kick and a pop of color.
• Smoked Paprika: Instantly brings a delicious warmth and subtle smokiness.
• Cajun Seasoning: Adds gentle heat and tons of depth—don’t skip this!
• Sea Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for balancing flavors.
• Garlic (finely chopped): Because every great burger needs garlic.
• Avocado Oil (or your preferred oil): High-heat oil is best for crisping up the patties.
• Cheddar Cheese Slices: Melts beautifully over chicken and adds richness.
• Bacon Strips: Cooked until crisp—adds smoky crunch and savoriness.
• Buns (brioche recommended): Toasted for texture and slight sweetness.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy base for your sauces.
• Sriracha: Brings a sweet heat that balances the juicy chicken.
• Red Onion (sliced): For sharpness, color, and refreshing bite.

Tip: Adjust any ingredient or seasoning to fit your personal tastes and dietary needs!

Variations

Want to change it up? No problem—this burger begs for customization!

• Go Lighter: Substitute turkey for chicken and use light mayo for a leaner bite.
• Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or pepper jack instead of cheddar. Toss in hot sauce for an extra hit of heat.
• Mix Up the Cheese: Swap cheddar for Swiss, mozzarella, or even blue cheese for a bolder flavor.
• All-Veggie: Skip the bacon and add grilled portobello or extra veggies, making these burgers vegetarian (substitute with a plant-based egg, if needed).
• Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns without sacrificing texture or taste.

How to Make Smash Chicken Burgers

Step 1: Make the Chicken Patties

In a sizeable mixing bowl, toss together ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, bell pepper, green onion, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and chopped garlic. Mix until everything is evenly combined, but avoid over-mixing to keep the patties tender.

Divide the mixture into four even portions and roll each into a ball—this preps them perfectly for the “smash” method.

Step 2: Smash and Cook

Heat your avocado oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once it’s shimmering, add your chicken balls. Immediately press each one flat using a sturdy spatula, creating thin patties with maximum surface area for caramelization. Cook for 4–5 minutes until you see a golden crust forming underneath.

Flip each patty, lay a slice of cheddar on top, and cover the skillet with a lid. Let the cheese melt and patties cook through—about 3–4 more minutes.

Step 3: Build Your Burger

While patties are finishing up, toast your brioche buns. Spread each bun generously with mayo and sriracha—swirl them together if you like a little zing.

On the bottom bun, stack two cheesy chicken patties, some sliced red onion, and a couple of pieces of crispy bacon. Top with the other bun, give it a gentle press, and—best part—repeat for the second burger.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overmix: Mix until just combined—overworking the chicken can make the patties dense.
• Really Smash Those Patties: The thinner, the better for maximum crispiness and flavor.
• Cover for Melty Cheese: A quick cover with a lid helps the cheese melt perfectly without overcooking the chicken.
• Toast the Buns: Don’t skip this step; it prevents sogginess and adds sweetness.
• Cook Bacon Ahead: Crispy bacon is easier to work with and saves you from juggling pans.

How to Serve

Serve these smash chicken burgers piping hot, straight from the skillet, and loaded up with all your favorite toppings. A side of seasoned fries, sweet potato wedges, or a fresh, crunchy coleslaw are all excellent pairings. For an extra-bright meal, toss together a quick cucumber salad or slice up some pickles for a tangy contrast. Don’t forget plenty of napkins—these burgers get gloriously saucy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cooked patties keep beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days—just store them in an airtight container.

Freezing

Uncooked chicken patties freeze very well. Shape and freeze on a lined tray, then transfer to a zip bag. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge before cooking. Cooked patties can also be frozen, but for best texture, reheat gently.

Reheating

Reheat patties in a skillet over medium-low heat with a splash of oil, or microwave in short bursts until warmed through. Avoid overcooking—they’re best enjoyed juicy!

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works almost identically—just opt for a mixture with a little fat so the patties don’t dry out. You’ll get a slightly different flavor but all the same moist, satisfying texture.

How do I keep the patties from sticking to the pan?
Make sure the pan and oil are properly preheated before adding patties. If you’re unsure, a quick test: the oil should shimmer when it’s ready. Using a spatula with a thin, sturdy edge also helps lift and flip without tearing.

What’s the best way to toast brioche buns?
A quick brush of butter or oil and a minute face-down in a hot skillet does wonders. You’re after a light, golden crunch without drying the buns out.

Can I prep these burgers ahead?
Definitely! Mix and shape the patties up to a day ahead, storing them well-covered in the fridge. When it’s time for dinner, just grab and cook—dinner’s on the table in a flash!

Final Thoughts

Smash Chicken Burgers truly strike the perfect balance of comfort, flavor, and fun. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a treat-yourself meal after a long day, these burgers absolutely deliver. Don’t be afraid to make them your own—get creative with toppings, cheeses, or seasonings. Give this recipe a try soon—the sizzle and flavor will have you craving burger night all over again!

Print