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+ servings

California-Style Chicken Burger Smash Patties

These quick and juicy chicken burger smash patties are perfect for a weeknight dinner or summer cookout, with a golden crust and melty cheese.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 520

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken preferably 93% lean
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • salt to taste
  • black pepper freshly ground, to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 4 slices cheese such as cheddar or pepper jack
  • lettuce leaves for topping
  • 1 tomato sliced
  • pickle slices for topping
  • 2 tablespoons avocado oil or other neutral oil

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, stir together the ground chicken, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
  2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently roll each into a loose ball.
  3. Set a large cast-iron skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and add the avocado oil.
  4. Carefully place the chicken balls in the hot skillet, spacing them apart.
  5. Using a sturdy spatula or burger press, firmly smash each ball down to about 1/2 inch thickness. Cook without disturbing for 3 to 4 minutes, until a deep golden crust forms on the bottom.
  6. Flip each patty gently and cook for another 3 to 4 minutes. During the last minute, place a slice of cheese on top of each patty and let it melt.
  7. While the patties cook, toast the hamburger buns on another pan or in the skillet until lightly golden, about 1 to 2 minutes.
  8. Nestle each cheesy patty onto a toasted bun and top with lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles.
  9. Serve immediately while hot and crispy.

Nutrition

Calories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 29gProtein: 33gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 900mgFiber: 2gSugar: 4g

Notes

Don't overmix the ground chicken mixture to keep the patties juicy. For extra flavor, use a blend of ground chicken thigh and breast. A cast-iron skillet gives the best crust, but a non-stick pan works too. Smash firmly but not too thin aim for 1/2 inch thickness. If you prefer a California twist, top with sliced avocado or a smear of chipotle mayo. Leftover patties can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 2 days and reheated in a skillet.

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