These tasty chicken burgers with spicy jalapeño and creamy pepper jack cheese are a real treat! They bring a nice kick and are super easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
What I love most is how juicy and flavorful they are! Just grill them up, pop them on a bun, and add your favorite toppings. You can’t go wrong with these zesty delights!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the burger. For a leaner option, turkey can be an easy swap. You could also use beef or plant-based ground meat if you’re looking for different flavors or dietary needs.
Jalapeño Peppers: Fresh jalapeños give a nice kick. If you’re sensitive to heat, bell peppers can replace them for a sweet flavor or milder options like poblano peppers. Always taste a bit to know what you’re working with!
Pepper Jack Cheese: The creamy cheese adds a delightful spiciness. If you can’t find it, try Monterey Jack with a pinch of chili powder, or even cheddar for a different taste. It’s all about what you enjoy!
Guacamole: This is my favorite addition for creaminess. If you’re short on avocados, mashed avocado works too, or even a dollop of sour cream can give that creamy touch.
Onion: Fresh onions add crunch and flavor, but if you’re not a fan, you could skip them or use onion powder for a gentler taste. Caramelized onions would also work for a sweeter flavor profile.
How Can I Grill Juicy Burgers Without Them Falling Apart?
Grilling chicken burgers can be tricky. To ensure juicy and intact patties, try these tips:
- Mix your ingredients just until combined. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Form your patties gently and make them slightly thicker in the center. They’ll cook evenly and won’t puff up.
- Preheat your grill before adding the patties. This will help sear the outside, locking in moisture.
- Don’t flip them too soon! Wait until they are golden brown on one side (about 5-6 minutes) before turning.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (74°C) is the magic number!
These steps will help you achieve perfectly grilled burgers every time! Enjoy cooking and experimenting with your flavors.
Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup finely diced jalapeño peppers (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion (optional, can substitute with onion powder)
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin (optional for smoky flavor)
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
For Assembly:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced into rings
- Lettuce leaves
- 1/2 cup guacamole or mashed avocado
- Mayonnaise or aioli
- Cooking oil or cooking spray for grilling
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of around 30 minutes from start to finish. Quick and delicious!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, diced jalapeños, minced garlic, chopped onion (if you’re using it), salt, black pepper, and cumin (if you like the smoky flavor). Be gentle as you mix—just combine everything until it’s nice and even. Overmixing can make your burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions. With your hands, gently shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Try to make them even so they cook uniformly!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill or grill pan ready by preheating it over medium-high heat. To keep the patties from sticking, lightly oil the grates with some cooking spray or a little oil on a paper towel.
4. Grill the Patties:
Once your grill is hot, place the chicken patties on it. Grill them for about 5 to 6 minutes on the first side, or until they’re golden brown and cooked about halfway through. Resist the urge to flip them too soon!
5. Add Cheese & Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the patties over and place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of each one. Grill them for another 4 to 5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is deliciously melted.
6. Toast the Buns:
During the last minute of cooking, pop the hamburger buns on the grill to toast them lightly. This adds a nice crunch to your burger!
7. Assemble Your Burgers:
Start with the bottom bun. Spread a generous layer of mayonnaise or aioli, then layer on the lettuce, a few slices of onion, and a slice of tomato.
8. Add the Patty:
Put the hot chicken patty with the melted cheese right on top of those fresh veggies.
9. Top with Guacamole:
Add a spoonful of guacamole or mashed avocado on top of the cheesy patty. Yum!
10. Complete the Burger:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on your creation, and serve right away with your favorite side—like crispy fries or a fresh salad. Enjoy every delicious bite of your juicy Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers!
FAQ for Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still yield delicious burgers. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning to your preference, as turkey can be a bit milder in flavor than chicken.
What If I Don’t Like Spicy Food?
No problem! You can simply omit the jalapeños from the recipe. For added flavor without the heat, consider using chopped red or green bell peppers instead.
How Can I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet or microwave—just ensure they’re heated through before serving!
Can I Freeze the Patties Before Cooking?
Yes! You can freeze the shaped patties for up to 3 months. Just make sure to separate them with parchment paper to prevent sticking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling. They’ll be as delicious as fresh!
