The Best Chicken Burgers Recipe | Juicy, Easy & Flavorful

I’ve been making chicken burgers for what feels like my entire life, and I am so excited to share this perfected recipe with you. After years of tweaking ingredients and cooking methods, I’ve finally landed on what I can confidently call the best chicken burger. It’s incredibly juicy, packed with flavor, and has the most satisfying texture.

If you enjoy trying festive dishes, you can also enjoy a Christmas Salmon Recipe that pairs beautifully with burgers for a holiday twist. This isn’t just another recipe; it’s the result of countless trials, and I’m proud of how simple and delicious it is.

Ingredients for the Perfect Patty

Creating a flavorful and moist chicken patty comes down to using the right combination of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Each component plays a crucial role in building the perfect burger.

For the Chicken Patties:

2 lbs ground chicken: Fresh ground chicken is ideal, but if you’re using frozen, be sure to thaw it completely in the refrigerator first. Using a mix of white and dark meat can add extra flavor and moisture.
2 large eggs: Eggs are essential as they act as the primary binder, holding the patties together so they don’t crumble during cooking.
1/2 to 3/4 cup breadcrumbs: Plain or panko breadcrumbs work well to absorb excess moisture and provide structure. If you need a gluten-free option, gluten-free breadcrumbs are a perfect substitute.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Freshly minced garlic provides a pungent, aromatic flavor that you just can’t get from garlic powder.
1/2 cup yellow onion, finely minced: Dicing the onion as small as possible ensures it cooks evenly and releases its juices, adding both flavor and moisture to the patties.
1 tbsp Dijon mustard: This adds a tangy, sharp flavor that cuts through the richness of the other ingredients and enhances the overall taste.
2 tbsp mayonnaise: A secret weapon for moisture, mayonnaise helps keep the lean chicken meat from drying out while cooking.
2 tbsp fresh parsley, minced: Fresh herbs like parsley introduce a bright, clean flavor that lightens up the burger.
1 tsp coarse sea salt: Salt is crucial for seasoning the meat and bringing out all the other flavors.
1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle heat and depth.

For the Creamy Burger Sauce:

1/2 cup mayonnaise: This forms the creamy base of the sauce.
2 tbsp Dijon mustard: Adds that signature tangy kick.
2 tbsp honey: A touch of honey balances the sharpness of the mustard and lemon with a delicate sweetness.
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Brightens the sauce and adds a fresh, zesty note.
Salt and black pepper to taste.

Note: This recipe makes approximately 6 servings.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is how easily you can adapt it to your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few ideas to get you started.

Gluten-Free: The only gluten in the patties comes from the breadcrumbs. Simply swap them for your favorite gluten-free variety and serve the burgers on gluten-free buns.
Flavor Boosters: For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the chicken mixture. Fresh dill also pairs wonderfully with the parsley. You can also pair these burgers with a Roasted Turkey Breast Recipe for a hearty family-style meal.
Spicy Kick: If you like heat, add a finely minced jalapeño or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes to the patty mix. You could also add a little sriracha or hot sauce to the creamy burger sauce.
Different Herbs: Feel free to experiment with other fresh herbs. Cilantro, chives, or thyme would all be delicious additions.

Cooking Time

This recipe is designed to be quick and straightforward, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Equipment You’ll Need

You don’t need any fancy gadgets to make these burgers. Here are the basic tools that will make the process smooth and easy.

Large Mixing Bowl: For combining all the patty ingredients without making a mess.
Baking Sheet with Parchment Paper: A perfect non-stick surface for shaping and holding the patties before cooking.
Large Skillet or Pan: A non-stick or cast-iron skillet is ideal for getting a beautiful sear on the patties.
Spatula: For flipping the burgers with ease.
Small Bowl and Whisk: For mixing the creamy burger sauce until it’s smooth.
Meat Thermometer: The most reliable way to ensure your chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

How to Make The Best Chicken Burgers

This recipe is simple to follow. The key is to combine the ingredients gently and cook the patties until they are perfectly golden and cooked through.

Prepare the Patty Mixture

First, gather all your ingredients for the chicken patties. In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, eggs, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, minced onion, Dijon mustard, mayonnaise, fresh parsley, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.

Shape the Patties

Next, line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Lightly grease your hands with a bit of oil to prevent the mixture from sticking. Scoop out even portions of the chicken mixture—about 4 ounces each—and gently shape them into patties that are about an inch thick. Place the formed patties on the prepared baking sheet.

Cook the Chicken Burgers

Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and add a tablespoon of cooking oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the chicken patties in the pan, leaving some space between them. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F when checked with a meat thermometer.

Mix the Sauce and Assemble

While the burgers are cooking, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, honey, and fresh lemon juice. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to your liking. Once the patties are cooked, you can assemble your burgers with your favorite buns, a generous spread of the creamy sauce, and your chosen toppings.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

Over the years, I’ve picked up a few tricks that take these chicken burgers from great to absolutely unforgettable.

I always recommend using freshly ground chicken if you can. The texture and flavor are noticeably better. If you have a meat grinder, grinding your own chicken thighs and breasts is a game-changer.
Don’t skip the step of greasing your hands before shaping the patties. I’ve found it makes the process so much cleaner and prevents the meat from sticking, allowing you to form perfect patties every time.
Let the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in a much juicier burger when you take that first bite.
For an extra bit of flavor, I like to toast the brioche buns in the same pan I used for the burgers. Just a minute or two is all they need to soak up some of that delicious flavor and get slightly crispy.

How to Serve The Best Chicken Burgers

Presentation can make a simple meal feel special. For these burgers, I love to use soft, slightly sweet brioche buns. Toast them lightly for a bit of texture. Spread a generous layer of the creamy honey-mustard sauce on both the top and bottom bun. Place the juicy chicken patty on the bottom bun, then layer it with crisp lettuce, a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, ripe tomato slices, and thin rings of red onion. A few pickles on the side add a great tangy crunch.

Nutritional Information

Here is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving. Keep in mind that this can vary based on the specific ingredients and toppings you use.

Calories: 510 kcal
Protein: 31 g
Carbohydrates: 25 g
Fat: 32 g

Make Ahead and Storage

These chicken burgers are great for meal prep. The mixture and cooked patties both store very well, making them a convenient option for busy weeks.

To make ahead, you can prepare the chicken patty mixture, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. You can also form the patties, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet separated by wax paper, and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook.

Leftover cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or place them in a skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through.

For longer storage, you can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Then, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container with wax paper between each patty. They will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons to make these chicken burgers a regular part of your meal rotation. Here are just a few things that make this recipe a keeper.

Incredibly Juicy and Flavorful: The combination of mayonnaise, Dijon, and fresh aromatics ensures these burgers are never dry or bland. They are packed with flavor in every single bite.
Quick and Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time and 20 minutes of cooking, you can have a delicious, satisfying meal on the table in about half an hour, making it perfect for any night of the week.
Highly Versatile and Customizable: This recipe is a fantastic base for your creativity. You can easily swap ingredients, add spices, or pile on your favorite toppings to make it your own.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Both the raw patties and the cooked burgers store beautifully. This makes them a wonderful option for planning meals in advance, saving you time and effort later.

Ash Tyrrell