Ingredients:
Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken (or boneless, skinless chicken breasts for grinding)
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning (store-bought or see ‘Spice Mix’ below)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Cajun Spice Mix (if making your own):
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust for heat)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp salt
Toppings:
- 4 burger buns (brioche are great)
- Sliced cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, pepper jack all work)
- Lettuce
- Tomato slices
- Red onion slices
- Avocado slices (optional)
- Mayo or other sauces (hot sauce, remoulade, etc.)
Instructions:
Make the Patties:
- If using chicken breasts, grind them in a food processor.
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, Cajun seasoning, onion, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly but gently.
- Divide the mixture into four equal patties.
Cook the Patties:
- Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil.
- Add the patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- In the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheese to melt.
Assemble the Burgers:
- Lightly toast the burger buns if desired.
- Place a cooked, cheese-topped patty on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add your favorite toppings: lettuce, tomato, onion, avocado, and any sauces or spreads you like.
Tips:
- Don’t Overmix: Handle the ground chicken mixture gently to avoid tough burgers.
- Indent the Patties: Create a slight indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents bulging.
- Customize Your Spice: Adjust the cayenne pepper in the Cajun spice mix to your preferred heat level.
- Serve it up: Pair these burgers with classic sides like fries, coleslaw, or potato salad for a complete meal.
