If you’re on the hunt for a burger that masterfully combines juicy chicken, melty cheddar, crispy bacon, and a zesty kick, then this Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe is about to become your new favorite. Every bite bursts with thrilling layers of flavor – from the perfectly seasoned, smashed chicken patties to the creamy, spicy mayo that adds just the right amount of heat. It’s a deliciously satisfying twist on the classic burger that’s quick enough for a weeknight but impressive enough to serve guests.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients may look simple, but each one plays a crucial role in building the flavorful, juicy, and well-textured smash chicken burger. From spices that add a smoky warmth to fresh veggies that brighten the profile, everything has its place.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean, tender base for the patties, perfect for soaking up spices.
- 1 egg: A binding agent that keeps the patties together without drying them out.
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs: Adds structure and keeps the patties moist and tender.
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, finely diced: Offers sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 2 tablespoons green onion, diced: Brings a mild onion flavor and freshness.
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika: Lends delicious smoky depth to the seasoning.
- 2 teaspoons cajun seasoning: Injects a lively, spicy punch.
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste: Enhances and balances all the flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste: Adds a subtle heat and earthiness.
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced: Gives aromatic richness that complements the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice), more if needed: Keeps the patties juicy and prevents sticking.
- 4 slices cheddar cheese: Melts beautifully over the patties and adds creamy sharpness.
- 2 strips bacon, cooked and cut in half (making 4 pieces): For that irresistible salty crunch.
- 2 brioche buns, toasted: Soft, slightly sweet buns that hold everything perfectly.
- Mayonnaise, as needed: Adds creamy richness to the spicy mayo.
- Sriracha, as needed: The spicy kick that wakes up the flavor.
- Red onion, sliced: Provides a crisp bite and subtle sweetness.
How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture
Combining all the ingredients for your patty mixture is the foundation of this recipe. In a large bowl, toss ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, finely diced red bell pepper and green onion, smoked paprika, cajun seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and minced garlic. Mix everything thoroughly so that every bite of your patty has a perfect harmony of flavor and texture.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide your seasoned chicken mixture into four equal parts. Roll each portion into a compact ball. These balls are ready for the smash that creates the signature thin, crispy edges that elevate this burger beyond ordinary.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken balls into the hot pan, then smash each ball firmly with a spatula to create thin patties. Cook each side for about 4 to 5 minutes until golden and cooked through. The smashing technique not only cooks the patties evenly but also delivers irresistible edges packed with flavor.
Step 4: Add Cheese
Once you flip the patties, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each. Cover your skillet with a lid and let the cheese melt as the patties finish cooking, usually 3 to 4 minutes. This step creates that gooey, melty texture that perfectly pairs with the juicy chicken below.
Step 5: Toast and Prepare Buns
Toast your brioche buns while the patties cook to add a slight crunch and warm softness. Mix mayonnaise and sriracha to make your spicy mayo, then spread it generously over the cut sides of each bun half. This spicy mayo is the creamy, tangy element that wakes up every bite.
Step 6: Assemble the Burgers
Start with the bottom bun and layer on two cheesy chicken patties. Add sliced red onions for crunch and flavor, then top with two pieces of crispy bacon for that satisfying saltiness. Cap it with the top bun, and your masterpiece is ready to serve hot. Repeat for the second burger and get ready to enjoy!
How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe even further, fresh garnishes like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, or a pickle spear add brightness and texture contrast. A sprinkle of extra green onions or chopped fresh herbs can bring a lovely freshness that balances the rich flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these burgers with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a tangy coleslaw, or even a light mixed greens salad. These sides complement the burger’s spicy, cheesy profile and keep the meal balanced and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your burger party-worthy by stacking the burgers on skewers to keep everything tidy, or serve as sliders using smaller buns for a fun appetizer version. Wrapping the assembled burger in parchment paper adds rustic charm and makes it easier to enjoy on the go or during casual gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with extra patties or assembled burgers, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store in airtight containers. They’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 2 days without losing much flavor or texture.
Freezing
For longer storage, flash-freeze individual cooked patties on a parchment-lined tray, then transfer to freezer-safe bags. They’ll stay fresh up to 2 months. Just avoid freezing assembled burgers, as the buns can get soggy upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven to keep them juicy—microwaving can make them rubbery. For assembly, toast buns fresh again and add mayo or toppings after reheating for the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for this burger?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a similar lean protein option. Just keep an eye on cooking time since turkey can sometimes dry out faster, and don’t skip the breadcrumbs and egg to keep the patties moist.
How spicy is the Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe?
The spice level is moderate and comes mostly from the cajun seasoning and sriracha in the mayo, which you can easily adjust. If you prefer milder flavors, reduce the sriracha or omit it altogether; for more heat, add extra!
Can I prepare the spicy mayo in advance?
Yes! The spicy mayo can be mixed a day ahead and stored in the fridge in a sealed container. It often tastes even better after the flavors meld overnight, making it an easy step to prep in advance.
What’s the best way to cook the bacon for this burger?
Cooking bacon until crispy in a skillet or oven works best to add the perfect crunch to contrast the juicy patties. Oven baking allows for even crispness without monitoring too closely and is less messy.
Are brioche buns necessary, or can I use other buns?
Brioche buns are ideal thanks to their tender crumb and slight sweetness, which pairs brilliantly with the savory burger. However, you can use any soft burger bun or even a sturdy sandwich roll if brioche isn’t available—it’s your burger, so go with your favorite!
Final Thoughts
Now that you know how to bring together this incredible Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe, it’s time to fire up your skillet and delight your taste buds. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of comfort and excitement — juicy patties, gooey cheese, smoky bacon, and a spicy, creamy kick. Once you try it, it just might become your go-to burger for both everyday dinners and special occasions. Trust me, your kitchen and your appetite will thank you!
Print
Smash Chicken Burger with Cheddar, Bacon, and Spicy Mayo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings (2 burgers each)
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Description
A flavorful Smash Chicken Burger recipe featuring juicy ground chicken patties seasoned with smoked paprika and Cajun spices, topped with melted cheddar cheese, crispy bacon, and spicy mayo on toasted brioche buns. Perfect for a quick and delicious homemade burger experience ready in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/3 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons green onion, diced
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 2 teaspoons cajun seasoning
- 1 teaspoon sea salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped or minced
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice), more if needed
Toppings and Assembly
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 strips bacon, cooked and cut in half (making 4 pieces)
- 2 brioche buns, toasted
- Mayonnaise, as needed
- Sriracha, as needed
- Red onion, sliced
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patty Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, finely diced red bell pepper, diced green onion, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, sea salt, black pepper, and finely chopped garlic. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated into a cohesive mixture.
- Form the Patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball to ensure even cooking and ease of smashing.
- Cook the Patties: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the chicken balls onto the skillet and use a spatula to smash each ball flat into thin patties. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes on the first side without moving, allowing a crispy crust to form, then flip carefully.
- Add Cheese: Immediately place a slice of cheddar cheese over each patty once flipped. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap heat and let the cheese melt while the patties cook for an additional 3 to 4 minutes, ensuring the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Toast and Prepare Buns: While the patties cook, toast the brioche buns until golden brown. Spread mayonnaise and drizzle sriracha sauce evenly over the cut sides of each bun half for a creamy and spicy kick.
- Assemble the Burgers: Place two cheesy chicken patties onto the bottom half of each toasted bun. Layer with sliced red onions and 2 crispy bacon pieces per burger. Top with the upper half of the buns and serve immediately for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For juicier patties, avoid over-mixing the chicken mixture.
- Adjust Cajun seasoning and sriracha to your preferred heat level.
- Use a flat spatula or burger press to smash the patties evenly.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- To make it gluten-free, substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free alternatives.
- Bacon can be omitted or replaced with vegetarian alternatives for a different twist.
