Chimichurri Chicken Burgers: A Flavor Explosion on a Bun
Forget boring burgers! This Chimichurri Chicken Burger recipe will revolutionize your grilling game. Juicy, flavorful chicken patties are slathered in a vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce, creating a burger experience that’s both fresh and satisfying. This recipe is perfect for summer cookouts, weeknight dinners, or any time you’re craving a burger with a serious kick. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable dish!
## Why Chimichurri Chicken Burgers?
Classic beef burgers are great, but sometimes you want something lighter and brighter. Chicken burgers are a fantastic alternative, offering a leaner protein source and a blank canvas for bold flavors. Chimichurri, an Argentinian herb sauce, is the perfect complement to chicken. Its bright, tangy, and slightly spicy notes elevate the burger to a whole new level.
Here are a few reasons why you’ll love this recipe:
* **Flavorful and Fresh:** The chimichurri sauce adds an explosion of fresh herbs, garlic, and chili, creating a vibrant and irresistible flavor profile.
* **Healthier Option:** Chicken is a leaner protein choice compared to beef, making this a lighter and healthier burger option.
* **Easy to Make:** While it looks impressive, this recipe is surprisingly simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adjust the spice level and ingredients in the chimichurri to suit your preferences.
* **Crowd-Pleasing:** This burger is guaranteed to be a hit at your next gathering. Everyone will rave about the unique and delicious flavors.
## Ingredients You’ll Need
Before you start grilling, gather these ingredients:
**For the Chicken Burgers:**
* 1.5 pounds ground chicken
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
* 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**For the Chimichurri Sauce:**
* 1 cup packed fresh parsley
* 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro
* 1/4 cup packed fresh oregano
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (or red pepper flakes to taste)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**For Serving:**
* 4 burger buns
* Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, cheese, etc.)
## Equipment
* Large bowl
* Food processor or blender (for the chimichurri)
* Grill or grill pan
* Small bowl
## Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these detailed instructions to create the perfect Chimichurri Chicken Burgers:
**Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce**
This sauce is the star of the show, so start by making it first. You can make it a few hours ahead of time to allow the flavors to meld together.
1. Combine all the chimichurri ingredients (parsley, cilantro, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, chili peppers, dried oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper) in a food processor or blender.
2. Pulse until finely chopped but not completely pureed. You want some texture in the sauce.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Add more chili for extra heat, more vinegar for tanginess, or more salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the chimichurri sauce to a bowl and set aside.
**Step 2: Make the Chicken Burger Patties**
Now, let’s prepare the chicken patties.
1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, chopped onion, minced garlic, beaten egg, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper.
2. Gently mix all the ingredients together with your hands until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties tough.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions.
4. Shape each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This will help prevent the patties from puffing up in the middle while grilling.
5. Place the patties on a plate or baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Cover the patties with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This will help them hold their shape while grilling.
**Step 3: Grill the Chicken Burgers**
Time to fire up the grill!
1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
2. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the patties from sticking.
3. Carefully place the chicken burger patties on the preheated grill.
4. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the patties are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they are fully cooked.
5. During the last minute of grilling, you can add cheese to the patties if desired. Place a slice of your favorite cheese (such as provolone, mozzarella, or pepper jack) on top of each patty and let it melt.
**Step 4: Assemble the Burgers**
Now for the best part – assembling your delicious Chimichurri Chicken Burgers!
1. Lightly toast the burger buns.
2. Spread a generous amount of chimichurri sauce on both the top and bottom buns.
3. Place a grilled chicken patty on the bottom bun.
4. Add your favorite burger toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, and cheese (if you didn’t melt it on the patty).
5. Top with the other half of the bun.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
## Tips for the Perfect Chimichurri Chicken Burgers
Here are a few tips to ensure your burgers are a success:
* **Don’t Overmix the Chicken:** Overmixing the chicken can result in tough burgers. Mix the ingredients until just combined.
* **Chill the Patties:** Chilling the patties helps them hold their shape while grilling and prevents them from falling apart.
* **Don’t Press Down on the Patties:** Avoid pressing down on the patties while grilling, as this will squeeze out the juices and make them dry.
* **Use a Meat Thermometer:** A meat thermometer is the best way to ensure the patties are cooked through to 165°F.
* **Make the Chimichurri Ahead of Time:** Making the chimichurri sauce a few hours ahead of time allows the flavors to meld together and intensifies the taste.
* **Adjust the Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of chili peppers or red pepper flakes in the chimichurri to suit your preferred spice level.
* **Use Fresh Herbs:** Fresh herbs are essential for the best flavor in the chimichurri sauce. Don’t substitute dried herbs.
* **Toast the Buns:** Toasting the buns adds a nice texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
## Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is easy to customize to your liking. Here are a few variations and substitutions you can try:
* **Spicy Chimichurri:** Add more chili peppers or red pepper flakes to the chimichurri for a spicier kick.
* **Lemon Chimichurri:** Substitute lemon juice for red wine vinegar in the chimichurri for a brighter, citrusy flavor.
* **Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs in the chimichurri, such as mint or basil.
* **Turkey Burgers:** Substitute ground turkey for ground chicken for a slightly leaner option.
* **Vegetarian Option:** Use a plant-based burger patty instead of chicken.
* **Gluten-Free:** Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns for a gluten-free version.
* **Add-ins to the Patty:** Consider adding finely diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the chicken mixture for added nutrients and flavor.
## Serving Suggestions
Chimichurri Chicken Burgers are delicious on their own, but here are a few serving suggestions to complete the meal:
* **Side Salad:** Serve with a fresh green salad or a simple tomato and cucumber salad.
* **Grilled Vegetables:** Grill some vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, to serve alongside the burgers.
* **Sweet Potato Fries:** Sweet potato fries are a delicious and healthy alternative to regular fries.
* **Coleslaw:** A creamy coleslaw complements the flavors of the burger perfectly.
* **Corn on the Cob:** Grilled corn on the cob is a classic summer side dish.
* **Potato Salad:** Serve with a classic potato salad for a heartier meal.
## Storage Instructions
* **Cooked Chicken Burgers:** Store cooked chicken burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Chimichurri Sauce:** Store chimichurri sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5-7 days. The flavors will continue to develop over time.
* **Reheating:** Reheat cooked chicken burgers in the microwave, oven, or on the grill until heated through. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become dry.
## Nutritional Information (Approximate)
(Note: Nutritional information will vary depending on specific ingredients and serving size)
* Calories: 450-550 per burger
* Protein: 30-40 grams
* Fat: 20-30 grams
* Carbohydrates: 30-40 grams
## Conclusion
These Chimichurri Chicken Burgers are a fantastic way to shake up your burger routine. The vibrant chimichurri sauce elevates the humble chicken burger to a gourmet experience. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a delicious and impressive meal that everyone will love. So fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy the best chicken burger you’ve ever had!
## Recipe Card
**Chimichurri Chicken Burgers**
A juicy and flavorful chicken burger topped with a vibrant and herbaceous chimichurri sauce.
**Prep Time:** 20 minutes
**Cook Time:** 10-14 minutes
**Total Time:** 30-34 minutes
**Servings:** 4
**Ingredients:**
* 1.5 pounds ground chicken
* 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
* 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 large egg, lightly beaten
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**For the Chimichurri Sauce:**
* 1 cup packed fresh parsley
* 1/2 cup packed fresh cilantro
* 1/4 cup packed fresh oregano
* 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
* 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
* 1/2 cup olive oil
* 1-2 red chili peppers, finely chopped (or red pepper flakes to taste)
* 1 teaspoon dried oregano
* 1/2 teaspoon cumin
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
**For Serving:**
* 4 burger buns
* Your favorite burger toppings (lettuce, tomato, red onion, avocado, cheese, etc.)
**Instructions:**
1. **Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:** Combine all chimichurri ingredients in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped. Taste and adjust seasonings.
2. **Make the Chicken Burger Patties:** In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, egg, olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined. Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
3. **Grill the Chicken Burgers:** Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates. Grill patties for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Add cheese during the last minute of grilling if desired.
4. **Assemble the Burgers:** Toast burger buns. Spread chimichurri sauce on both buns. Place a grilled chicken patty on the bottom bun, add your favorite toppings, and top with the other half of the bun.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
**Notes:**
* Adjust the spice level of the chimichurri to your liking.
* Use fresh herbs for the best flavor.
* Don’t overmix the chicken to avoid tough burgers.
* Chill the patties for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
Enjoy your delicious Chimichurri Chicken Burgers!