Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers
Get ready to meet your new favorite burger because these Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers? They’re bringing bold flavor, smoky heat, and cheesy goodness all in one juicy bite. We’re talking tender ground chicken seasoned with smoky chipotle, melted cheddar tucked into every layer, and just the right balance of spice and savory. Toasted buns, a little crunch from toppings, maybe a dollop of creamy sauce… you’re in burger heaven before you even take the first bite.
Whether you’re grilling for friends, throwing together a casual weeknight dinner, or just craving something that hits the spot hard, these burgers are guaranteed to deliver. Trust me, once you try them, you’ll never look at a plain beef patty the same way again.
Why You’ll Love Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family dinner, hosting a get-together with friends, or simply indulging in some comforting flavors for yourself, this dish is versatile enough to fit the occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile: Great for the grill, stovetop, or even baked in the oven. You can dress them up or down for any occasion.
Budget-Friendly: Ground chicken and pantry spices make these burgers both flavorful and affordable.
Quick and Easy: From mixing to plating, these come together fast perfect for busy weeknights.
Customizable: Add more spice, more cheese, or even stuff them go wild with your burger creativity.
Crowd-Pleasing: A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Ingredients in Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers
These burgers bring major flavor with simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ground Chicken
Lean, tender, and the perfect blank canvas for all those bold, smoky flavors.
Chipotle Peppers in Adobo
Smoky, spicy, and absolutely packed with flavor. A little goes a long way here.
Cheddar Cheese
Sharp, melty cheddar gives these burgers that irresistible cheesy bite both mixed in and melted on top.
Garlic
Freshly minced garlic adds warmth and depth to the patties.
Onion (optional)
Grated or finely chopped onion keeps the burgers juicy and adds a mild sweetness.
Breadcrumbs
Helps bind everything together and gives the patties a nice structure.
Egg
Just one egg helps everything stick and adds extra richness.
Salt and Pepper
Simple seasoning that brings all the flavors to life.
Burger Buns
Soft, lightly toasted buns ready to hold all that juicy, spicy deliciousness.
Toppings of Choice
Lettuce, tomato, avocado, red onion, pickles go wild with your favorites!

Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Equipment
Fire up your grill or heat a large skillet over medium heat. If baking, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, chopped chipotle peppers, cheddar cheese, garlic, onion (if using), breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until just combined don’t overmix to keep the burgers tender.
Prepare Your Cooking Vessel
If using a skillet or grill, lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. If baking, line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
Assemble the Dish
Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape into burger patties. Try to make them slightly thinner in the center for even cooking.
Cook to Perfection
Cook patties for about 5–6 minutes per side on the grill or skillet, or bake for 18–20 minutes, until fully cooked through (internal temp should reach 165°F). Add extra cheddar slices on top during the last minute if desired.
Finishing Touches
Toast the buns if you like and get your toppings ready.
Serve and Enjoy
Assemble your burgers with toppings of choice, add your favorite sauce (hello chipotle mayo!), and dig in while everything’s hot and melty.
Nutrition Facts:
Servings: 4 burgers
Calories per serving: 430 kcal
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
How to Serve Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers
This dish pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Serve with classic fries, sweet potato wedges, or a crunchy coleslaw.
- Pair with a light salad for a more balanced meal.
- Add a fried egg or avocado slices for a brunch-style twist.
- Serve on lettuce wraps for a low-carb version.
- Pair with grilled corn or baked beans for a summer BBQ vibe.
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Wet your hands when forming the patties to prevent sticking.
- Use gloves when handling chipotle peppers they’re spicy and the sauce stains!
- Make a double batch and freeze uncooked patties for quick meals later.
- For extra smoky flavor, grill over charcoal instead of gas.
- Let the cooked burgers rest for 2–3 minutes before serving to keep them juicy.
FAQ’s
1. Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey works great as a substitute with similar flavor and texture.
2. Are these burgers very spicy?
They have a kick! You can reduce the chipotle peppers if you prefer it milder.
3. Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Absolutely. Form the patties and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
4. Can I freeze the uncooked burgers?
Yes layer them between parchment paper and freeze in an airtight container.
5. What sauce goes best with these burgers?
Chipotle mayo, ranch, garlic aioli, or even guacamole pair beautifully.
6. Do I have to add cheese inside the patties?
Not at all but mixing it in gives that extra melty, flavorful bite.
7. Can I bake instead of grill?
Yes, just place on a parchment-lined sheet and bake at 400°F for 18–20 minutes.
8. What buns work best?
Brioche buns are soft and slightly sweet, which pairs perfectly with the smoky-spicy flavors.
9. How do I know when the burgers are done?
Use a meat thermometer 165°F internal temp is your golden number.
10. What toppings go best with these burgers?
Avocado, lettuce, red onion, tomato, jalapeños, or a tangy slaw are all great options.
Conclusion
Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers are everything you love about a good burger but with a bold, smoky twist that makes them unforgettable. They’re juicy, cheesy, spicy, and endlessly satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or just need something quick and flavorful for dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Get ready to crave burgers like never before—these are seriously next level.
Print
Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 burgers 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling or Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers are juicy, smoky, and packed with flavor. These burgers combine ground chicken, chipotle peppers, and sharp cheddar for a spicy, cheesy twist on a classic grill favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 burger buns
- Lettuce, tomato, red onion, and condiments of choice for serving
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, minced chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Form into 4 equal-sized patties and place on a plate. Refrigerate for 15–20 minutes to firm up.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan over medium heat. Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Lightly toast the burger buns if desired.
- Assemble burgers with your preferred toppings and serve hot.
Notes
- Add a slice of cheddar on top during the last minute of cooking for extra cheesy flavor.
- Use a grill instead of a skillet for a smoky charred taste.
- Serve with avocado or chipotle mayo for added creaminess.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (without toppings or bun)
- Calories: 330
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 470mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: chicken burgers, chipotle, cheddar, spicy burger, easy dinner, grilling