Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

These Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach are a delicious twist on a classic favorite. They are juicy, flavorful, and packed with healthy ingredients, making them perfect for any occasion, from casual weeknight dinners to summer barbecues. The unique blend of feta cheese and spinach not only adds a Mediterranean flair but also boosts the nutritional profile of these burgers. Whether served on a bun or as a lettuce wrap, they are sure to impress your family and friends.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Feta Cheese Spread
• For the Tzatziki Sauce
• For the Chicken Burgers
• For Serving
• How to Make Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach
• Step 1: Prepare the Feta Cheese Spread
• Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce
• Step 3: Prepare the Spinach
• Step 4: Mix Burger Ingredients
• Step 5: Preheat the Grill
• Step 6: Grill the Burgers
• Step 7: Assemble Your Burgers
• How to Serve Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach
• Classic Burger Style
• Lettuce Wrap
• Pita Presentation
• Open-Faced Delight
• Salad Bowl
• How to Perfect Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach
• Best Side Dishes for Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach
• Reheating Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
• How do I store leftovers of Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach?
• Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
• What toppings pair well with these burgers?
• Can I make this dish gluten-free?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavorful Delight: The combination of chicken, feta cheese, and spinach creates a juicy burger bursting with flavor.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and nutrient-rich veggies, this recipe is as wholesome as it is tasty.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, these burgers are perfect for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy them on brioche buns, lettuce wraps, or in pitas for a fun twist.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Both the feta cheese spread and Tzatziki sauce can be prepared in advance for convenience.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking your Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your preparation process and make cooking more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Microwave-safe dish
• Grill or grill pan
• Food processor (optional)
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Mixing bowls: Ideal for combining ingredients thoroughly without creating a mess.
• Grill or grill pan: Provides the best cooking method for achieving that perfect char while keeping the burgers juicy.
• Food processor: Makes blending ingredients for spreads quick and easy if you prefer a creamy texture.

Ingredients

These Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach are so flavorful and juicy, full of all kinds of delicious and healthy ingredients.

For the Feta Cheese 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
• ¼ 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

How to Make Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Feta Cheese Spread

In a small bowl:
1. Add all the ingredients for the feta cheese spread.
2. Microwave for 30 seconds; stir well.
3. If lumps remain, microwave again for another 15-30 seconds until smooth. Alternatively, use a food processor to blend until creamy.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

In another bowl:
1. Combine all Tzatziki sauce ingredients.
2. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Prepare the Spinach

1. Thaw spinach in the microwave.
2. Allow it to cool before squeezing out all excess liquid thoroughly.

Step 4: Mix Burger Ingredients

In a large bowl:
1. Add all burger ingredients together.
2. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
3. Shape into four equally sized patties.

Step 5: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to 450 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 6: Grill the Burgers

If using Mesquite smoke chips:
1. Place them in a smoker box over heat for about 7 minutes until smoking begins.
2. Spray both sides of each burger with grilling spray.
3. Grill burgers for about 5 minutes on one side.
4. Flip burgers; grill an additional 3-5 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Step 7: Assemble Your Burgers

On each bun:
1. Smear some of the Feta Cheese Spread inside.
2. Add grilled chicken burger patty.
3. Layer on your choice of toppings including Tzatziki sauce before serving.

You can also serve these delicious chicken burgers on a bed of lettuce as wraps or in pitas with your preferred toppings! Enjoy this delightful Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach at your next meal!

How to Serve Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

Serving your Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach can enhance the meal experience. Here are some delicious ways to present this flavorful burger.

Classic Burger Style

• Brioche Buns: Use soft brioche buns for a rich, buttery flavor that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken patty.
• Fresh Vegetables: Top with slices of tomato, red onion, and crisp lettuce for added freshness and crunch.

Lettuce Wrap

• Low-Carb Option: For a healthier alternative, serve the burger wrapped in large leaves of green leaf lettuce. It’s light and refreshing!

Pita Presentation

• Mediterranean Twist: Place the chicken burger in a warm pita pocket. Add tzatziki sauce and extra veggies for a delightful handheld meal.

Open-Faced Delight

• Gourmet Style: Serve the burger open-faced on toasted bread or a thick slice of grilled eggplant. This allows for creative toppings without the bun.

Salad Bowl

• Healthy Bowl: Create a salad bowl with chopped spinach, cucumber, and tomatoes. Place the burger on top for a filling yet nutritious dish.

How to Perfect Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

To ensure your Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach turns out perfect every time, consider these useful tips.

• Boldly Season: Don’t skimp on seasoning the ground chicken. A good mix of salt, pepper, and herbs will elevate flavors.
• Keep it Juicy: Avoid overcooking by checking the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F for safety without drying out.
• Chill Before Grilling: Let patties chill in the fridge before grilling. This helps them hold their shape during cooking.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh spinach and feta cheese to enhance overall taste and texture.
• Experiment with Toppings: Get creative with toppings like avocado or roasted red peppers for an extra flavor kick.
• Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the tzatziki sauce ingredients to match your taste preferences—add more garlic or herbs if desired.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

Pairing side dishes can complement your Chicken Burger beautifully. Here are some excellent options:

1. Greek Salad: A vibrant mix of cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta tossed in olive oil makes a fresh side.
2. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness that balances well with savory flavors of the burger.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers provide a colorful addition to your plate.
4. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad mixed with herbs offers a healthy grain option packed with protein.
5. Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw adds crunch and contrasts nicely against the juicy chicken patty.
6. Chips & Dip: Serve crispy pita chips alongside hummus or tzatziki for an easy snackable side option.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect your outcome. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Using Wet Spinach: If the spinach isn’t thoroughly squeezed dry, it can make the burgers soggy. Always ensure to remove all moisture from the spinach before mixing.
• Overmixing the Chicken: Mixing the chicken too much can lead to tough burgers. Gently combine ingredients just until everything is incorporated.
• Ignoring Cooking Temperature: Cooking at a low temperature may result in undercooked burgers. Make sure your grill is preheated to 450 degrees for optimal cooking.
• Skipping the Tzatziki Sauce: This sauce adds freshness and flavor. Don’t skip it; make it ahead of time for an easy addition.
• Not Measuring Ingredients Precisely: Accurate measurements are key to delicious burgers. Use measuring cups and spoons for best results.
• Choosing the Wrong Buns: The type of bun can affect taste and texture. Opt for brioche for a soft, flavorful experience or go low-carb if needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftover Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach in an airtight container.
• They will last up to 3 days in the fridge.
• Keep the Tzatziki sauce separate if possible to maintain freshness.

Freezing Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

• Place cooked burgers in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
• Label containers with date and contents for easy identification later.

Reheating Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat burgers on a baking sheet for about 10-15 minutes.
• Microwave: Warm on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook burgers for about 5 minutes on each side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground chicken in this recipe. It will still yield delicious results!

How do I store leftovers of Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the burger mixture a day ahead and shape them into patties, then cook when ready.

What toppings pair well with these burgers?

Toppings like sliced tomato, lettuce, cucumber, and red onion work wonderfully with Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Simply use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond meal as a binder, and choose gluten-free buns or serve without bread altogether.

Final Thoughts

These Chicken Burgers with Feta Cheese and Spinach are not only flavorful but also versatile. You can customize toppings based on your preferences while enjoying a healthy meal option. Give this recipe a try; it’s sure to become a family favorite!