Introduction

Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burgers are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, packed with smoky heat and a touch of tangy lime. These juicy patties are easy to make and perfect for summer grilling or a quick stovetop meal. Add your favorite toppings for a burger experience that’s bold and satisfying.

A close-up of a grilled chicken sandwich on a soft, shiny brown bun sprinkled with white and black sesame seeds. The sandwich has three main layers visible: at the bottom, fresh green lettuce leaves sit on the bottom bun; above it, a thick grilled chicken patty with visible grill marks is covered with melted white cheese; on top are two slices of fresh red tomato. The sandwich is on a round white plate with crispy golden french fries on the side, all placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 lb ground chicken
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
2 tablespoons adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon lime juice
1/4 cup breadcrumbs (or panko for extra crunch)
1 egg
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (for sauce)
1 tablespoon lime juice (for sauce)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for sauce)
Salt to taste (for sauce)
4 burger buns, toasted
4 slices of pepper jack cheese (optional, for extra heat)
Lettuce leaves
Sliced tomatoes
Sliced red onions
Pickled jalapeños (optional, for extra spice)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated, being careful not to overwork the meat.
Step 2: Form the mixture into 4 evenly sized patties about 3/4 inch thick. Set aside while you prepare the chipotle mayo.
Step 3: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, chopped chipotle pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt to taste. Adjust seasoning as needed and refrigerate until ready to assemble.
Step 4: To grill, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Cook the patties for about 5 minutes on each side, flipping once, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Alternatively, heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil and cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 5: If using, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each patty during the last minute of cooking and allow it to melt.
Step 6: Toast the burger buns. Spread chipotle mayo on the top and bottom buns, then layer with lettuce, tomato slices, cooked patty, red onion slices, and pickled jalapeños if desired.
Step 7: Serve immediately and enjoy your spicy, smoky chicken burger!

Tips & Variations

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Add finely chopped fresh cilantro to the patty mixture for a fresh herbal note.
Swap pepper jack cheese for cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer milder cheese.
For a milder version, reduce the amount of chipotle peppers or omit pickled jalapeños.
Serve with avocado slices or a squeeze of fresh lime for added creaminess and brightness.

Storage

Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chipotle mayo can be stored separately in the fridge for up to 1 week. Reheat patties gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Assemble burgers fresh to avoid soggy buns.

How to Serve

A close-up of a grilled chicken sandwich on a white sesame seed bun, with layers including green lettuce at the bottom, a thick grilled chicken breast topped with melted white cheese, slices of red tomato, and red onion rings, all stacked neatly. The sandwich sits on a dark wooden plate with a side of golden French fries in the background, placed on a white marbled surface. The top bun is shiny and golden brown, slightly toasted. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well as a substitute and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just be sure to cook the patties thoroughly.

How spicy are these burgers?

The chipotle peppers and adobo sauce give these burgers a smoky heat that is moderately spicy. You can adjust the amount of chipotle to your heat preference or omit the pickled jalapeños if you want less spice.