Smash Chicken Burger is a delightful dish that brings together juicy seasoned ground chicken with melted cheese and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon, making it perfect for any meal. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this burger is sure to impress. Its unique flavor combination and easy preparation make it a go-to recipe for chicken lovers.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Chicken Patties
- For Cooking
- For Toppings
- How to Make Smash Chicken Burger
- Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
- Step 2: Cook the Patties
- Step 3: Add Cheese
- Step 4: Assemble Your Burger
- How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger
- With Fresh Salads
- On a Platter
- With Dipping Sauces
- How to Perfect Smash Chicken Burger
- Best Side Dishes for Smash Chicken Burger
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Smash Chicken Burger
- Reheating Smash Chicken Burger
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How do I make a Smash Chicken Burger?
- Can I customize my Smash Chicken Burger?
- What sides go well with Smash Chicken Burgers?
- How do I know when my chicken patties are done?
- Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to Prepare – With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can have delicious burgers ready in no time.
- Flavorful Ingredients – The smoked paprika and cajun seasoning add an exciting kick that enhances the taste of the chicken.
- Versatile Serving Options – Enjoy these burgers with your favorite toppings, or serve them alongside a fresh salad for a lighter meal.
- Family-Friendly – Kids love the cheesy patties and crispy turkey bacon, making it great for family dinners.
- Healthy Alternative – Ground chicken is lower in fat compared to beef, making this burger a healthier choice without sacrificing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
To create the ultimate Smash Chicken Burger, having the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here’s what you’ll need:
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
Importance of Each Tool
- Skillet – A good skillet allows for even cooking and browning of the patties, ensuring they are juicy inside.
- Mixing Bowl – A spacious mixing bowl provides enough room to mix ingredients thoroughly without spills.
- Spatula – A sturdy spatula helps smash the patties properly and flip them with ease while cooking.

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 teaspoon cajun
- 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped or minced)
For Cooking
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil (or oil of your choice, more if needed)
For Toppings
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 strips Turkey Turkey Bacon (cooked and cut in half making 4 pieces)
- 2 buns (we love using brioche buns, toasted)
- mayo
- sriracha
- red onion (sliced)
How to Make Smash Chicken Burger
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
In a mixing bowl combine all of the chicken patty ingredients. Give it a good mix until well combined. Divide the meat mixture into 4 equal portions and roll each portion into a ball.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Preheat avocado oil in your skillet over medium heat. Add all four patty balls to the skillet. Using a spatula, smash each ball down gently to form patties. Cook for about 4–5 minutes before flipping them over.
Step 3: Add Cheese
Once flipped, place slices of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cover the skillet with a lid and let cook for an additional 3–4 minutes until the cheese has melted perfectly.
Step 4: Assemble Your Burger
While the patties are cooking, drizzle mayo and sriracha sauce on both halves of your toasted buns. Spread it evenly using a butter knife. Once cooked, add two cheesy patties on each bun half followed by slices of red onion and crispy Turkey Turkey Bacon. Cover with the top bun and enjoy your delicious Smash Chicken Burger!
How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger
Serving Smash Chicken Burgers can be a delightful experience. The combination of juicy patties, melted cheese, and crispy toppings makes them versatile for various occasions. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enhance your meal.
With Fresh Salads
- Caesar Salad – A classic choice, this salad adds a crisp texture that balances the richness of the burger.
- Coleslaw – The crunchiness of coleslaw complements the burger perfectly while adding a bit of tang.
- Mixed Greens – Light and refreshing, mixed greens with a vinaigrette can cleanse the palate between bites.
On a Platter
- Burger Bar – Set up a burger bar with various toppings like pickles, tomatoes, and different sauces for guests to customize their burgers.
- Sharing Platter – Arrange burgers on a platter with sides for family-style dining that encourages sharing and interaction.
With Dipping Sauces
- Garlic Aioli – This creamy dip pairs well with the flavors of the Smash Chicken Burger.
- Spicy Ketchup – Add a kick to your meal with ketchup infused with hot sauce or spices.
How to Perfect Smash Chicken Burger
Perfecting your Smash Chicken Burger takes some attention to detail. Follow these tips to ensure your burgers turn out juicy and flavorful every time.
- Use fresh ingredients – Fresh ground chicken and vegetables make all the difference in flavor and texture.
- Do not overmix – Gently mix the meat mixture to keep the patties tender; overmixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Smash effectively – When smashing the patties, apply even pressure for an even cook and better caramelization.
- Monitor cooking time – Keep an eye on the cooking time to prevent overcooking; aim for perfect juiciness.
- Let rest before serving – Allowing the patties to rest for a couple of minutes ensures they retain their juices when bitten into.
Best Side Dishes for Smash Chicken Burger
Pairing side dishes with your Smash Chicken Burger elevates your meal. Here are some tasty options that complement the burger beautifully.
- Sweet Potato Fries – Crispy on the outside and soft inside, these fries add sweetness that pairs well with savory flavors.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob – Charred corn brings a smoky sweetness that enhances the overall taste experience.
- Potato Wedges – Seasoned potato wedges offer a hearty side that is easy to prepare and satisfying.
- Roasted Vegetables – A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted in olive oil provides healthy color and flavor contrast.
- Macaroni Salad – Creamy macaroni salad offers a comforting side option that balances out the burger’s richness.
- Pickle Chips – Tangy pickle chips provide crunch and acidity, making them an excellent palate cleanser alongside rich burgers.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common mistakes can elevate your Smash Chicken Burger experience. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Ignoring the seasoning: Failing to properly season your chicken mixture can lead to bland patties. Be sure to use smoked paprika, cajun spices, and salt for maximum flavor.
- Overworking the meat: Mixing the ground chicken too much can make the patties tough. Gently combine ingredients until just mixed for a juicy texture.
- Skipping the smash technique: Not smashing the patties in the skillet can result in uneven cooking. Use a spatula to flatten them for even browning and better cheese melting.
- Using low-quality buns: Cheap or stale buns can ruin your burger experience. Opt for fresh brioche buns that complement the flavors of your Smash Chicken Burger.
- Neglecting toppings: Overlooking toppings like red onions and spicy mayo means missing out on added flavor and crunch. Customize with your favorite toppings for an extra layer of taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Keep patties separate from buns to prevent sogginess.
Freezing Smash Chicken Burger
- Wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap or foil.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; defrost in the fridge overnight before cooking.
Reheating Smash Chicken Burger
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place burgers on a baking sheet, and heat for about 10-15 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat each patty for 30 seconds on high, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each patty for about 3-4 minutes per side until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about the Smash Chicken Burger:
How do I make a Smash Chicken Burger?
To make a Smash Chicken Burger, mix ground chicken with spices and form into patties. Cook in a skillet, smash them down for better texture, and add cheese until melted.
Can I customize my Smash Chicken Burger?
Absolutely! Feel free to add toppings like avocado, different cheeses, or spicy sauces according to your preference.
What sides go well with Smash Chicken Burgers?
Popular sides include sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh garden salad that complements these tasty burgers.
How do I know when my chicken patties are done?
Chicken patties should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey is an excellent alternative and can be seasoned similarly for delicious results.
Final Thoughts
The Smash Chicken Burger is not only delicious but also highly adaptable. With its juicy patties and flavorful toppings, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Whether it’s a casual lunch or dinner with friends, this recipe is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy crafting your own perfect burger!
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Smash Chicken Burger
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Enjoy a flavorful Smash Chicken Burger with juicy patties, crispy toppings, and zesty mayo. Try this easy recipe today!
Ingredients
- 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 tablespoon avocado oil
- 4 slices cheddar cheese
- 2 strips turkey bacon (cooked)
- 2 toasted buns
- mayo
- sriracha
- red onion (sliced)
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, egg, breadcrumbs, red bell pepper, green onion, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape into balls.
- Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Place the meatballs in the skillet and smash down gently with a spatula to form patties.
- Cook for about 4–5 minutes before flipping. Add cheese slices on top after flipping and cover until melted (3–4 minutes).
- Assemble by spreading mayo and sriracha on toasted buns, topping with patties, turkey bacon, and red onion.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (approx. 230g)
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 21g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 105mg





