Savor the Summer with Cheddar BBQ Chicken Burgers

Summer is the perfect time for cookouts, and what better way to elevate your grilling game than with delicious Cheddar BBQ Chicken Burgers? This recipe, inspired by the culinary magic of Ambitious Kitchen, combines the smoky flavors of barbecue with the richness of cheddar cheese, all nestled within a juicy chicken patty. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or just looking for a new favorite weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to impress.

Ingredients

For the Chicken Burgers:

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the BBQ Sauce:

• 1/2 cup ketchup
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Hamburger buns
• Additional cheddar cheese slices
• Lettuce, tomato, and pickles
• Extra barbecue sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the BBQ Sauce:
Start by making your barbecue sauce. In a small saucepan, combine the ketchup, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir the ingredients together over medium heat until the mixture comes to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Once done, set the sauce aside to cool.

2. Make the Chicken Burger Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, barbecue sauce, chopped red onion, fresh parsley, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, ensuring they are slightly larger than the buns as they will shrink during cooking.

3. Grill the Burgers:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken patties on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. During the last few minutes of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty to melt.

4. Toast the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill. This step adds a nice crunch and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy when you add the sauce.

5. Assemble the Burgers:
Once the patties are cooked and the cheese is melted, it’s time to assemble your burgers. Spread a generous amount of the homemade barbecue sauce on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the chicken patty on top, followed by lettuce, tomato slices, and pickles. Add more barbecue sauce on the top half of the bun if desired, then close the burger.

6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve these delicious Cheddar BBQ Chicken Burgers immediately, alongside your favorite sides like coleslaw, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad. Enjoy the burst of flavors with every bite as the smoky, tangy, and cheesy elements come together perfectly.

Tips for Perfect Burgers

• Ground Chicken: Make sure to use ground chicken with a bit of fat for juicier burgers. Ground chicken breast can be too lean and result in drier patties.
• Cheese: Shred your own cheddar cheese for better melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
• Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure your burgers are cooked to a safe internal temperature of 165°F.
• Barbecue Sauce: Feel free to use your favorite store-bought barbecue sauce if you’re short on time. However, the homemade version adds an extra depth of flavor that’s worth the effort.

These Cheddar BBQ Chicken Burgers are a fantastic addition to any summer cookout menu. They’re packed with flavor and sure to be a hit with family and friends. Fire up the grill and get ready to enjoy a taste of summer with this mouthwatering recipe!