Mediterranean White Cheddar and Spinach Chicken Burgers
Mediterranean white cheddar and spinach chicken burgers are a fresh, lighter take on a comfort classic. Juicy ground chicken is blended with sautéed spinach, sharp white cheddar, garlic, and herbs, creating burgers that are flavorful, moist, and satisfying without feeling heavy. Olive oil and Mediterranean seasoning keep the profile clean and balanced, while the melted cheese adds richness in every bite. These burgers work equally well on the grill, in a skillet, or baked in the oven, making them ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or casual gatherings. Served on a bun, wrapped in lettuce, or plated with roasted vegetables, they are versatile and reliably crowd-pleasing.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 (4 large burgers)
Ingredients
1 pound ground chicken
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped
¾ cup shredded white cheddar cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
½ small onion, finely grated
1 teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and black pepper to taste
½ cup breadcrumbs or almond flour
Optional for serving: whole grain buns, lettuce, tomato, yogurt sauce, mustard
Instructions
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small pan over medium heat.
Add chopped spinach and cook for 1 to 2 minutes until wilted, then remove and let cool.
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, cooled spinach, white cheddar, garlic, onion, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Add breadcrumbs and gently mix until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties.
Heat the remaining olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
Cook the patties for 6 to 7 minutes on the first side until golden.
Flip carefully and cook another 5 to 6 minutes until cooked through.
Remove from heat and let the burgers rest for 2 minutes.
Serve warm on buns or with your favorite Mediterranean-style sides.
Tips
Use ground chicken with some fat for juicier burgers.
Finely chop spinach so it blends evenly into the meat.
Let cooked spinach cool to avoid excess moisture.
Grate cheese yourself for better melting.
Do not overmix the burger mixture or it will become dense.
Slightly wet your hands when shaping patties to prevent sticking.
Cook over medium heat to avoid drying out the chicken.
Use a thermometer and aim for 165°F (74°C) internal temperature.
Rest burgers briefly so juices redistribute.
Toast buns lightly for better texture.
Variations
Add crumbled feta along with white cheddar for extra tang.
Use kale instead of spinach for a heartier texture.
Swap breadcrumbs with oat flour for a gluten-free option.
Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes for sweetness.
Mix in fresh parsley or basil for a brighter herb note.
Use ground turkey instead of chicken if preferred.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for mild heat.
Serve with tzatziki instead of traditional condiments.
Make slider-sized patties for appetizers.
Bake patties at 400°F (200°C) for 18 to 20 minutes as a hands-off method.
Q&A
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, shape and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance.
Can I freeze these burgers?
Yes, freeze uncooked patties for up to 2 months.
Why are my chicken burgers dry?
Overcooking or using very lean chicken is usually the cause.
Can I grill these burgers?
Yes, just oil the grates well and cook gently.
What cheese works besides white cheddar?
Gruyère, mozzarella, or provolone work well.
Are these burgers kid-friendly?
Yes, the flavors are mild and adaptable.
Can I make them dairy-free?
Use dairy-free cheese or omit cheese entirely.
What sides pair well with these burgers?
Roasted vegetables, Greek salad, or sweet potato wedges.
Can I cook them in the oven?
Yes, bake on a lined tray and flip once.
How do I store leftovers?
Refrigerate cooked burgers for up to 3 days.
Nutrition
(Approximate per serving)
Calories: 430
Protein: 34 g
Carbohydrates: 18 g
Fat: 24 g
Fiber: 2 g
Calcium: 25 percent daily value
Conclusion
Mediterranean white cheddar and spinach chicken burgers strike a smart balance between comfort and freshness. They are juicy, flavorful, and easy to customize, making them suitable for everything from family dinners to casual entertaining. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this recipe proves that lighter burgers do not need to sacrifice taste. Once added to your rotation, these chicken burgers quickly become a dependable favorite, offering a satisfying meal that feels wholesome, modern, and genuinely enjoyable.