White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe

If you love the sound of juicy, cheesy chicken patties and sweetly rich caramelized onions all packed in a burger that’s bursting with flavor, these White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions are about to become your new favorite. They strike that irresistible balance of crave-worthy comfort and fresh, sophisticated taste—the kind of meal that disappears fast at any summer cookout or cozy weeknight dinner!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions are built on cozy, everyday staples that let each flavor shine. Let’s break down what you’ll need and why each ingredient is a key player in that perfect, juicy bite!

• Lean ground chicken or turkey: The foundation for moist, flavorful patties—stick with breast meat for lighter burgers, or a mix for extra juiciness.
• Prepared caramelized onions: They add irresistible softness and loads of sweet, deep flavor—plan ahead and make these in advance if you can.
• White cheddar cheese, diced: Go for a good block of white cheddar; the small cubes melt into lush, creamy pockets throughout the burgers.
• Kosher salt & Italian seasoning: Classic seasonings that bring out all the best in the chicken and help every topping pop.
• Garlic powder & black pepper: For cozy warmth and just enough bite to round out the flavor.
• Calabrian chili paste (or sambal): A spoonful brings a subtle heat and adds a gourmet touch—adjust it to your spice comfort zone.
• Buns, smashed avocados, arugula & sauce: Your favorite buns and toppings make these burgers totally yours—keep it classic, or pile them high!

Variations

One of the best things about White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions is how flexible they are! Don’t be afraid to riff on this recipe, depending on what you have on hand or your personal cravings—there’s truly no wrong way to burger here.

• Swap out the cheese: Try smoked Gouda or pepper jack for a fun flavor twist that melts just as beautifully as white cheddar.
• Make it gluten-free: Serve on a tasty gluten-free bun or crisp lettuce leaves for a lighter, gluten-friendly option.
• Bump up the heat: Add extra chili paste or a dash of hot sauce for those who love things spicy.
• Go fully loaded: Top your burgers with crispy bacon, pickled jalapeños, or a thick slice of tomato for extra layers and crunch.

How to Make White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions

Step 1: Prep the Caramelized Onions

If you haven’t already made your caramelized onions, start here. Sauté sliced sweet or yellow onion in butter and a little oil, sprinkle with sugar and a pinch of salt, then let them gently cook low and slow for 35–45 minutes until soft, deep gold, and sweet. This is what brings the burgers a melt-in-your-mouth richness you can’t get any other way!

Step 2: Mix and Shape the Burger Patties

In a large bowl, use your hands to combine the ground chicken, cooled caramelized onions, diced white cheddar, salt, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, black pepper, and Calabrian chili paste. Mix just until blended—overworking can make the patties tough! Divide into four even portions and gently form them into thick, even patties.

Step 3: Chill for Easy Grilling

For the juiciest, easiest-to-flip burgers, chill your patties in the fridge for about 30 minutes. This helps them firm up so they’ll go onto the grill in perfect shape (though if you’re short on time, you can pop them on right away).

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to a sizzle-worthy 475ºF and prep the grates with high-heat oil so nothing sticks. Grill the patties for 4–6 minutes per side, until they’re beautifully golden and a thermometer in the center reads 155ºF. Let them finish cooking from the inside out on a plate, loosely covered in foil, while you toast those buns.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Smear your toasted buns with mayo or your condiment of choice, stack up with arugula, smashed avocado, or lettuce, and crown each with a hot, cheesy White Cheddar Chicken Burger with Caramelized Onions. Serve right away with your favorite easy sides!

How to Serve White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions

Garnishes

The right garnish takes your White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions from delicious to downright diner-worthy. A smattering of peppery arugula, a smear of smashed avocado, and a thick slice of ripe tomato all add vibrancy. Or try microgreens and a sprinkle of flaky salt for a little chef’s kiss at the table!

Side Dishes

Classic fries, roasted potato wedges, or even garlicky sweet potato fries are stellar sides. For something lighter, pair with a fresh summer salad, grilled veggies, or cool, crunchy coleslaw—the burger’s savory, cheesy richness plays especially well with crisp, bright flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

Elevate your White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions by serving open-faced with a fried egg, or cut sliders for crowd-pleasing party food. For a fun twist, stack them on toasted ciabatta or even tuck a patty into a grilled wrap with all your favorite fixings—let your burger imagination run wild!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover burgers keep beautifully—just let them cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Keep buns and fixings separate for the freshest texture when you’re ready for round two.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked or uncooked White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions. Wrap patties tightly in plastic and freeze in a zippered bag for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating or grilling through as usual.

Reheating

To reheat, pop burgers in a 350ºF oven for about 10 minutes, or microwave in 30-second bursts until hot. A quick pan-sear brings the outside back to life—don’t forget to toast your buns again for that “just-made” burger magic!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I hope you love making—and devouring—these White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions as much as I do. They’re everything a burger should be: cheesy, juicy, craveable, and easy to make your own. Fire up your grill (or stove!), and make this recipe the highlight of your next dinner. Enjoy every bite!

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