Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

If you’re looking for a delicious and healthy dinner option, you’ve come to the right place! These Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach are not just satisfying; they pack a punch of flavor that will leave your taste buds dancing. This recipe has become one of my go-to meals, especially during busy weeknights when I want something both quick and hearty. They also shine at family gatherings, where everyone can customize their toppings just the way they like.

What makes this chicken burger so special is the combination of juicy chicken, creamy feta cheese, and fresh spinach. You’ll find that every bite bursts with Mediterranean flair. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, making them a perfect choice for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: Each bite is packed with vibrant flavors from the feta cheese and fresh herbs.
• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps, you can have these burgers ready in 30 minutes!
• Family-Friendly: Everyone can enjoy customizing their own burger with toppings.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The feta spread and tzatziki sauce can be made in advance for even quicker assembly.
• Healthy Ingredients: Lean chicken and plenty of veggies make this a guilt-free meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. The combination of flavors creates a delightful dish that everyone will love!

For the Feta Spread

• 2 ounces feta cheese
• 4 ounces cream cheese
• 1 large garlic clove, minced
• ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

For the Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (I used 2%)
• 2 large garlic cloves, minced
• ¼ cup English cucumber, finely chopped (about 3 1/2 ounces)
• 2 tablespoons dill, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (1/2 a lemon, juiced)
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• dash of freshly ground pepper

For the Chicken Burgers

• 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly squeezed to get ALL the liquid out!
• 1 pound ground chicken, 93% lean
• 4 ounces feta cheese, finely crumbled
• ¼ cup almond meal or breadcrumbs
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 teaspoon oregano

For Serving

• 4 Brioche buns (See note for low carb / low cal / keto option!)
• 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
• green leaf lettuce, washed and dried
• English cucumber, thinly sliced
• red onion, thinly sliced

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to fit your preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or beef instead of chicken for a different taste.
• Add some heat: Mix in some crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice!
• Change up the cheese: If feta isn’t your thing, goat cheese or even mozzarella can work well.
• Go bunless: Serve these burgers on a bed of greens or in lettuce wraps for a lighter option.

How to Make Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Feta Spread

Start by adding all the ingredients for the feta cheese spread into a small bowl. Microwave it for 30 seconds and then stir. If it still has lumps after stirring, don’t worry! Just pop it back in the microwave for another 15-30 seconds until creamy. This spread adds such a rich flavor to your burgers.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In another bowl, mix together all the Tzatziki Sauce ingredients. This refreshing sauce will complement your burgers beautifully! It’s best if you let it chill in the refrigerator while you prepare everything else.

Step 3: Prepare the Spinach

Thaw your chopped spinach in the microwave. Once it’s warm enough to handle, squeeze out all excess liquid thoroughly. This step is crucial since any moisture left can make your burgers mushy!

Step 4: Mix Together Burger Ingredients

In a large bowl, combine all burger ingredients — including that flavorful spinach! Mix everything together really well until combined. Shape this mixture into four equally sized patties; this will ensure even cooking.

Step 5: Grill Those Burgers

Preheat your grill to 450 degrees. If you’re using Mesquite smoke chips for an extra smoky flavor (and who doesn’t love that?), place them in a smoker box over heat until they start smoking. Spray both sides of your patties with grilling spray before placing them on the grill. Cook them for about five minutes on one side before flipping them over and grilling for another three to five minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees.

Step 6: Assemble Your Burgers

Once cooked through and juicy, smear that delicious feta cheese spread onto each bun’s inside. Layer on your burger patty followed by all your favorite toppings — don’t forget that refreshing Tzatziki sauce!

And there you have it—a scrumptious Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach that’s not only quick but incredibly tasty too! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

Creating a delicious chicken burger is easier than you think, and a few expert tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables can significantly enhance the flavor of your burgers. Always opt for fresh spinach, garlic, and herbs whenever possible to give your burger that burst of freshness.
• Don’t overmix the chicken: Mixing the ground chicken too much can lead to tough burgers. Gently combine the ingredients just until everything is evenly distributed for juicy, tender patties.
• Keep the grill hot: Preheating your grill ensures a good sear on the burgers. A hot grill locks in moisture and creates a delightful charred flavor.
• Check doneness with a thermometer: To ensure food safety and avoid dry burgers, use an instant-read thermometer to check that your chicken burgers reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
• Rest before serving: Letting your burgers rest for a few minutes after grilling allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a more flavorful bite.

How to Serve Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

Serving your Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach can be as fun as making it! With a bit of creativity, you can impress family and friends while enjoying this delicious meal.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley adds vibrant color and enhances the Mediterranean flavors.
• Sliced olives: Black or green olives provide a salty kick that complements the feta cheese beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Greek Salad: A refreshing mix of tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and feta cheese drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice pairs perfectly with your burger.
• Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries offer a healthier alternative to regular fries while adding a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory burger.
• Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus tossed in olive oil and grilled make for a colorful side that’s both healthy and delicious.
• Quinoa Tabbouleh: This light salad made with quinoa, parsley, cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon juice brings freshness and nutrition to your meal.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance the overall dining experience but also complement the flavors of your Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach perfectly! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

These Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach are fantastic for meal prep! You can make the patties in advance and have them ready to grill whenever you’re in the mood for a delicious meal.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover cooked chicken burgers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Keep the Tzatziki sauce and feta spread in separate containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing

• Shape the uncooked chicken burger patties and lay them on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just label with the date!

Reheating

• To reheat frozen patties, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator.
• Grill on medium heat for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until heated through.
• For leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed.

FAQs

If you have questions about this delightful recipe, I’ve got you covered!

Can I use different cheese in the Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach?

Absolutely! While feta adds a unique flavor, you can substitute it with goat cheese or even mozzarella if you prefer something milder.

What can I serve with my Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach?

These burgers pair wonderfully with a side salad, sweet potato fries, or even stuffed into pita bread for a refreshing meal.

How long does it take to make Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach?

This recipe is quick and easy! You can prepare everything within 30 minutes from start to finish.

Can I grill the Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach indoors?

Yes, you can cook these burgers indoors using a grill pan or broiler if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. Just ensure they reach the proper internal temperature.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach as much as I do! They’re not only delicious but also packed full of wholesome ingredients that everyone will love. Whether it’s for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead, these burgers are sure to satisfy your cravings. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!