Easy Chicken and Cheese Burger Patties (Ground Chicken or Turkey)

My grandmother, bless her heart, wasn’t much of a “from scratch” cook. But she had a few incredible dishes up her sleeve that were family favorites. These chicken and cheese patties remind me of her because they’re simple, satisfying, and always a crowd-pleaser. I can still picture her in her apron, humming along to the radio while she shaped these patties, her hands moving with practiced ease. The aroma of savory chicken and melting cheese would fill her tiny kitchen, promising a delicious, comforting meal, and those memories are what I cherish most.

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: 30-35 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 patties
• Dietary Type: Adaptable (Can be made Gluten-Free)

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground chicken (fresh ground chicken or turkey meat)
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, finely shredded
• 1/3 small onion, chopped
• 1 egg, beaten
• 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1/2 cup dry Italian seasoned breadcrumbs
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for pan-frying, optional)
• 1/2 cup additional breadcrumbs (for coating if pan-frying, optional)
• Dash of olive oil (for microwaving onions)

Equipment Needed

• Large mixing bowl
• Microwave-safe bowl
• Fork or spoon
• BBQ grill or Indoor Grill or Frying Pan

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing the onion. Finely chop 1/3 of a small onion. Place the chopped onion in a microwave-safe bowl with a dash of olive oil. Microwave for approximately 1 minute to soften the onion slightly. This step helps mellow the onion’s flavor and ensures it cooks evenly in the patties.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the softened onion with the remaining ingredients. Add 1 lb ground chicken or turkey, 1 cup finely shredded sharp cheddar cheese, 1 beaten egg, 3 tablespoons mayonnaise, and 1/2 cup dry Italian seasoned breadcrumbs.

3. Using your hands or a large spoon, gently mix all the ingredients together until they are evenly distributed. Be careful not to overmix, as this can result in tough patties.

4. Once the mixture is well combined, divide it into 6 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty, approximately 3/4 inch thick.

5. Now, it’s time to cook the patties. You have several options:

   • BBQ Grill: Preheat your BBQ grill to medium heat. Place the patties on the grill and cook for approximately 7-10 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Indoor Grill: Preheat your indoor grill according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Place the patties on the grill and cook for approximately 7-10 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Pan-Frying: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. For extra crispy patties, coat each patty individually in additional 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs before frying. Place the patties in the hot skillet and cook for approximately 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Oven Baking: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

6. Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful patty.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• For the most flavorful patties, use freshly ground chicken or turkey. Pre-packaged ground meat can sometimes be dry and lack flavor.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of cheese. Pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or even a smoked gouda would add a delicious twist.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a food processor to finely chop the onion.
• To prevent the patties from sticking to the grill or pan, make sure it’s properly preheated and lightly oiled.
• To ensure the patties are cooked through, use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (74°C).
• If the mixture seems too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs to help bind the ingredients together. If it seems too dry, add a touch more mayonnaise.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

These chicken and cheese burger patties are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways. My personal favorite is on a toasted bun with a generous slathering of BBQ sauce, a handful of French’s fried onions, and a slice of American cheese. They’re also delicious served on a bed of lettuce as a low-carb option or alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.

Storage:

• Room Temperature: Cooked patties should not be left at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
• Refrigerator: Leftover patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: These patties freeze exceptionally well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating:

• Refrigerator: Reheat leftover patties in the microwave, oven, or skillet until heated through.
• Freezer: Thaw frozen patties in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	246.8 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	111 g	45%
Total Fat	12.4 g	19%
Saturated Fat	5.3 g	26%
Cholesterol	110 mg	36%
Sodium	415.2 mg	17%
Total Carbohydrate	9.3 g	3%
Dietary Fiber	0.5 g	2%
Sugars	1.4 g	5%
Protein	23.4 g	46%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on ingredient substitutions and cooking methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs to make this recipe gluten-free.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian: Substitute the ground chicken or turkey with crumbled plant-based ground meat alternative.
• Cheese Variations: Try different types of cheese, such as pepper jack, mozzarella, or provolone.
• Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs, such as fresh parsley, thyme, or rosemary.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
A: Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe.

Q: Can I freeze these patties?
A: Yes, these patties freeze exceptionally well. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe container or zip-lock bag.

Q: How do I prevent the patties from sticking to the grill?
A: Make sure your grill is properly preheated and lightly oiled before placing the patties on it.

Q: Can I bake these patties in the oven?
A: Yes, you can bake these patties in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until they are cooked through.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to the mixture?
A: Yes, you can add other finely chopped vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to the mixture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making these easy chicken and cheese burger patties as much as my family and I do. They’re a quick, simple, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your own signature version. And most importantly, have fun in the kitchen! I’d love to hear your feedback and any creative twists you come up with. Consider serving these delicious patties with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp coleslaw for a complete and satisfying meal. Happy cooking!