Chicken Parm Burgers: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Chicken Parmesan is a beloved comfort food classic. But what if you could enjoy those same delicious flavors in a burger form? Enter the Chicken Parm Burger! This recipe takes everything you love about chicken parmesan – the crispy breaded chicken, the rich tomato sauce, the melted mozzarella – and stacks it between two burger buns for an incredibly satisfying and flavor-packed meal.
This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend barbecue, or any time you’re craving a unique and delicious burger experience. It’s surprisingly easy to make, and you can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite toppings.
## Why You’ll Love This Chicken Parm Burger Recipe
* **Familiar Flavors, New Format:** It’s chicken parmesan in burger form! All the classic tastes you crave, but in a fun and portable package.
* **Easy to Make:** While it might seem intimidating, this recipe is surprisingly simple to execute. The steps are straightforward, and the result is worth the effort.
* **Customizable:** Feel free to adjust the seasonings, sauce, and toppings to suit your preferences. Want a spicier kick? Add some red pepper flakes. Prefer a different cheese? Go for it!
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** This burger is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s a fun and unexpected way to enjoy a classic Italian dish.
* **Perfect for Leftovers:** Any leftover chicken patties can be used for sandwiches, salads, or even as a topping for pasta.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering Chicken Parm Burgers:
**For the Chicken Patties:**
* **Ground Chicken:** 1.5 pounds. Using ground chicken keeps the patties tender and juicy. You can also use ground turkey as a substitute.
* **Breadcrumbs:** 1 cup. Panko breadcrumbs provide a great crispy texture. You can also use Italian-style breadcrumbs for extra flavor.
* **Grated Parmesan Cheese:** ½ cup. Adds a savory and cheesy flavor to the patties.
* **Egg:** 1 large. Acts as a binder, holding the patties together.
* **Garlic Powder:** 1 teaspoon. For that classic garlic flavor.
* **Onion Powder:** 1 teaspoon. Adds depth of flavor.
* **Italian Seasoning:** 1 teaspoon. Brings all the flavors together.
* **Salt:** ½ teaspoon. To enhance the flavors.
* **Black Pepper:** ¼ teaspoon. For a touch of spice.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons. For cooking the patties.
**For the Tomato Sauce:**
* **Canned Crushed Tomatoes:** 28 ounces. The base of the sauce. Look for good quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons. Adds richness and intensifies the tomato flavor.
* **Garlic:** 2 cloves, minced. Essential for any good tomato sauce.
* **Dried Oregano:** 1 teaspoon. A classic Italian herb.
* **Dried Basil:** 1 teaspoon. Another essential Italian herb.
* **Sugar:** 1 teaspoon. Balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
* **Salt:** ½ teaspoon. To taste.
* **Black Pepper:** ¼ teaspoon. To taste.
* **Olive Oil:** 1 tablespoon.
**For Assembly:**
* **Burger Buns:** 4. Choose your favorite type of burger buns. Brioche buns, sesame seed buns, or even pretzel buns would work well.
* **Mozzarella Cheese:** 4 slices. Fresh mozzarella is ideal, but shredded mozzarella will also work.
* **Fresh Basil Leaves:** For garnish (optional).
## Equipment You’ll Need
* **Large Mixing Bowl:** For mixing the chicken patty ingredients.
* **Small Saucepan:** For making the tomato sauce.
* **Skillet or Grill Pan:** For cooking the chicken patties.
* **Spatula:** For flipping the patties.
* **Measuring Cups and Spoons.**
* **Cutting Board.**
* **Knife.**
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s a detailed guide to making the best Chicken Parm Burgers:
**1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:**
* Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat.
* Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
* Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.
* Add dried oregano, dried basil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
* Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.
* Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Set aside.
**2. Make the Chicken Patties:**
* In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
* Mix well with your hands until all ingredients are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
* Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a patty, about ¾ inch thick.
**3. Cook the Chicken Patties:**
* Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
* Carefully place the chicken patties in the hot skillet, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. You may need to cook them in batches.
* Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the patties are golden brown and cooked through. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
* During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of each patty and cover the skillet to allow the cheese to melt.
**4. Assemble the Burgers:**
* Lightly toast the burger buns, if desired.
* Spread a generous spoonful of tomato sauce on the bottom bun.
* Place a cheesy chicken patty on top of the sauce.
* Add another spoonful of tomato sauce on top of the patty.
* Top with fresh basil leaves, if using.
* Place the top bun on the burger.
* Repeat for the remaining burgers.
**5. Serve Immediately:**
* Serve your delicious Chicken Parm Burgers immediately while they’re hot and the cheese is melty.
* Serve with your favorite sides, such as french fries, onion rings, or a simple salad.
## Tips for the Best Chicken Parm Burgers
* **Don’t Overmix the Chicken:** Overmixing the ground chicken will result in tough patties. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
* **Use Quality Ingredients:** The better the quality of your ingredients, the better the flavor of your burgers. Choose good quality crushed tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and flavorful Parmesan cheese.
* **Don’t Overcook the Patties:** Overcooked chicken patties will be dry and tough. Cook them until they are just cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
* **Melt the Cheese Properly:** Make sure the cheese is fully melted and gooey before assembling the burgers. Covering the skillet during the last minute of cooking will help the cheese melt quickly and evenly.
* **Toast the Buns:** Toasting the burger buns will prevent them from getting soggy and add a nice textural contrast.
* **Customize the Sauce:** Feel free to add other ingredients to your tomato sauce, such as red pepper flakes for heat, or more herbs for extra flavor.
* **Make it Vegetarian:** Substitute the ground chicken with a plant-based ground meat alternative to make it vegetarian.
## Variations and Additions
* **Spicy Chicken Parm Burger:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce or the chicken patty mixture for a spicy kick.
* **Pesto Chicken Parm Burger:** Spread pesto on the bottom bun instead of tomato sauce for a different flavor profile.
* **Provolone Chicken Parm Burger:** Use provolone cheese instead of mozzarella for a sharper, more tangy flavor.
* **Mushroom Chicken Parm Burger:** Sauté some sliced mushrooms and add them to the burger for extra flavor and texture.
* **Roasted Red Pepper Chicken Parm Burger:** Add roasted red peppers to the burger for a sweet and smoky flavor.
* **Garlic Aioli:** Instead of tomato sauce use garlic aioli.
* **Add Bacon:** Crispy bacon adds a smoky and salty flavor that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
## Serving Suggestions
Chicken Parm Burgers are delicious on their own, but they’re even better with the right sides. Here are some serving suggestions:
* **French Fries:** A classic burger side.
* **Sweet Potato Fries:** A healthier and slightly sweeter alternative to regular fries.
* **Onion Rings:** Crispy and flavorful, perfect for dipping in ketchup or BBQ sauce.
* **Coleslaw:** A refreshing and tangy side that cuts through the richness of the burger.
* **Pasta Salad:** A light and flavorful salad that pairs well with the Italian flavors of the burger.
* **Green Salad:** A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing is a healthy and refreshing option.
* **Tater Tots:** Always a crowd-pleaser.
## Make-Ahead Instructions
* **Chicken Patties:** The chicken patties can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook them just before serving.
* **Tomato Sauce:** The tomato sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before using.
## Storage Instructions
* **Leftover Chicken Patties:** Store leftover cooked chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
* **Leftover Assembled Burgers:** It’s best to eat the assembled burgers immediately. However, if you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Reheat in the microwave or oven, but be aware that the buns may become soggy.
## Recipe Card
**Chicken Parm Burgers Recipe**
A delicious twist on a classic, these Chicken Parm Burgers are packed with flavor and easy to make. Crispy breaded chicken patties, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese all stacked between two burger buns.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 25 minutes
**Total Time:** 45 minutes
**Servings:** 4
**Ingredients:**
* **For the Chicken Patties:**
* 1. 5 pounds ground chicken
* 1 cup breadcrumbs (Panko or Italian-style)
* ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1 large egg
* 1 teaspoon garlic powder
* 1 teaspoon onion powder
* 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* 2 tablespoons olive oil
* **For the Tomato Sauce:**
* 28 ounces canned crushed tomatoes
* 2 tablespoons tomato paste
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1 teaspoon dried basil
* 1 teaspoon sugar
* ½ teaspoon salt
* ¼ teaspoon black pepper
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* **For Assembly:**
* 4 burger buns
* 4 slices mozzarella cheese
* Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Tomato Sauce:** Heat olive oil in a small saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir well. Add oregano, basil, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, reduce heat to low, and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning.
2. **Make the Chicken Patties:** In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Divide into 4 portions and shape into patties.
3. **Cook the Chicken Patties:** Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (165°F). During the last minute, add a slice of mozzarella to each patty and cover to melt the cheese.
4. **Assemble the Burgers:** Lightly toast the buns. Spread tomato sauce on the bottom bun. Place a cheesy chicken patty on top. Add more sauce and basil leaves (optional). Top with the other bun and serve immediately.
**Nutrition Information (estimated per burger):**
* Calories: 650-750
* Protein: 40-50g
* Fat: 30-40g
* Carbohydrates: 40-50g
## Conclusion
The Chicken Parm Burger is a fun and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of chicken parmesan in a new and exciting format. It’s easy to make, customizable, and sure to be a hit with everyone. So, give this recipe a try and elevate your burger game to the next level! Enjoy!