Name: Healthy Chicken Burgers with Spinach & Feta
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 500 g ground chicken; 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped; ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled; ½ cup breadcrumbs; 1 large egg; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 4 whole wheat burger buns

Hey y'all! Ready to take your burger game to a whole new (and healthier) level? These Healthy Chicken Burgers with Spinach & Feta are juicy, full of savory goodness, and sneak in some greens for extra nutrition. Whether it's weeknight dinner, a quick lunch, or a special BBQ, these burgers pack flavor and protein in every bite. Let's get cooking!

Why You'll Love This

Packed with Protein: Lean ground Chicken offers a healthy protein punch without excess fat.
Extra Veggies: Spinach adds nutrients and moisture, making these burgers ultra-juicy.
Bold Mediterranean Flavor: Feta cheese and herbs infuse every patty with irresistible taste.
Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes—ideal for meal prep or busy nights.
Family Friendly: A crowd-pleasing burger everyone will enjoy, even picky eaters!

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) ground chicken
1 cup fresh spinach, finely chopped (or thawed frozen spinach, squeezed dry)
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 large egg
⅓ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
2 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
Whole-grain or regular burger buns (for serving)
Optional toppings: tomato slices, lettuce, tzatziki, red onion rings

Directions

Step 1: Prep the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped spinach, crumbled feta, red onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper.
Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until evenly combined, being careful not to overwork the meat for tender burgers.

Step 2: Form the Patties

Divide mixture into 4 equal portions.
Shape each into a ½-inch thick patty, pressing gently to keep the burgers compact but not dense.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
Add patties and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
If grilling, preheat to medium-high, oil grates, and cook for same time, flipping once.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

Lightly toast burger buns if desired.
Place cooked chicken burgers onto buns and top with your favorite toppings like tomato, lettuce, and a dollop of tzatziki.
Serve immediately for best flavor and juiciness!

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers

Notes

For extra moisture, use fresh baby spinach and be sure not to squeeze out all the juices.
If mixture feels too wet, add another tablespoon or two of breadcrumbs.
Use a kitchen scale for evenly sized patties—this helps them cook evenly.

Variations

Turkey Version: Substitute ground turkey for chicken for a similar lean option.
Spicy Kick: Add ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the mix.
Greek-Style: Serve in pita pockets with chopped cucumber, fresh dill, and a squeeze of lemon.

Required Equipment

Large mixing bowl
Nonstick skillet or grill pan (or outdoor grill)
Spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Meat thermometer (recommended for perfectly cooked burgers)

Storage Instructions

Store cooked chicken burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To freeze, wrap cooked (or uncooked) patties individually in plastic wrap, then foil, and store up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or cooking.
Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp Greek salad or sweet potato fries for a balanced meal.
Top with sliced avocado, roasted red peppers, or a squeeze of lemon for extra flavor.
Wrap in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

Pro Tips

Don’t overmix the burger mixture, as it can make the patties too dense.
Let patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to seal in juiciness.
Always check internal temp with a thermometer—165°F is key for food safety!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use frozen spinach?: Yes! Just thaw and squeeze out excess liquid before adding to the burger mix.
Are these burgers gluten-free?: You can make them gluten-free by using certified GF breadcrumbs and serving on GF buns or lettuce wraps.
Can I bake these burgers instead of frying?: Absolutely! Bake at 400°F (200°C) on a parchment-lined tray for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through.