This tasty burger is packed with juicy chicken and spicy jalapeños, topped with creamy pepper jack cheese. Perfect for those who like a little kick in their meal!
These burgers are super easy to make, and they sizzle on the grill like a summer dream. I love serving them with crispy fries or a fresh salad—yummy and satisfying!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This recipe uses ground chicken for a lean protein option. You can substitute with ground turkey for a similar taste or even lean beef if you prefer a richer flavor.
Jalapeño Pepper: Fresh jalapeños give a nice kick. If you want less heat, consider using a poblano pepper instead, or if you want a spicier burger, add a serrano pepper.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds creaminess and spice. If you can’t find it, mozzarella or cheddar can work too, though they won’t have the same heat.
Brioche Burger Buns: Brioche is soft and slightly sweet, perfect for these burgers. If you’re looking for an alternative, whole wheat or gluten-free buns can also work well.
How Do I Keep My Chicken Patties Juicy?
Keeping your chicken patties juicy is all about not overworking the meat and cooking at the right temperature. Here are some tips:
- Mix the ingredients gently, just until blended—this helps maintain a tender texture.
- Shape your patties slightly larger than the buns; they shrink as they cook.
- Grill on medium-high heat just until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C); avoid overcooking.
- Don’t forget to add cheese during the last minute to melt on top—this adds great flavor!
Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 jalapeño pepper, finely chopped (remove seeds for less heat)
- 1/2 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
For Assembly:
- 4 brioche burger buns
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed (to make guacamole)
- 1 tomato, sliced
- 1/2 red onion, sliced into rings
- Lettuce leaves
- Mayonnaise or chipotle mayo for spread
- Olive oil or cooking spray (for grilling)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. You’ll be enjoying these delicious burgers in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, chopped jalapeño, shredded pepper jack cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, smoked paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and black pepper. Stir gently until all ingredients are combined; be careful not to overmix as this can make the patties tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions and shape each one into a patty about ¾ inch thick. Make sure the patties are slightly larger than the buns since they will shrink while cooking.
3. Preheat the Grill:
Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Before adding the patties, lightly oil the grill surface to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Patties:
Cook the chicken patties on the grill for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). If you’d like, during the last minute of cooking, add additional slices of pepper jack cheese on top of the patties to melt.
5. Toast the Buns:
While the patties are grilling, toast the brioche buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
6. Assemble Your Burger:
Spread mayonnaise or chipotle mayo on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Next, add a layer of lettuce, followed by a grilled chicken patty with melted cheese, then top with tomato slices, red onion rings, and a generous spoonful of mashed avocado.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Top each burger with the other half of the bun, press down gently, and serve immediately with your favorite fries or a side salad. Enjoy your juicy, spicy, and cheesy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger!
FAQ for Easy Jalapeño Pepper Jack Chicken Burger
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just note that you may need to adjust cooking time slightly based on the fat content of the turkey.
How Can I Adjust the Spiciness Level?
If you prefer milder burgers, you can remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeño or even replace it with a bell pepper. For more heat, try adding more chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce into the chicken mixture.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave for about 30-45 seconds or warm in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Can I Prepare the Patties in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can actually enhance the flavors. Just be sure to cover them well to prevent drying out.
