Introduction
Buffalo Chicken Burgers are a delicious twist on the classic burger, combining the spicy flavors of Buffalo sauce with tender ground chicken. Paired with a creamy whipped feta spread, these burgers deliver a satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
For the Buffalo Chicken Burgers:
1 lb. ground chicken
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/3 cup hot sauce (e.g., Frank’s Red Hot)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
For the Whipped Feta Spread:
6 ounces feta cheese (block or crumbles)
4 ounces cream cheese
1/4 cup Greek yogurt
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons water
Extras:
2 tablespoons melted butter
2 tablespoons hot sauce
Buns
Lettuce
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4-5 servings
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Whipped Feta Spread
In a small food processor, combine the feta cheese, cream cheese, Greek yogurt, olive oil, and water. Blend the mixture until it is thick and spreadable, ensuring that small flecks of feta remain visible.
Mix and Form the Burgers
In a medium bowl, mix together the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, hot sauce, garlic powder, and salt. Use your hands or a spatula to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Shape the mixture into 4-5 equal-sized patties.
Cook the Burgers
Heat a small amount of oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, place the patties in the skillet. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F, ensuring they are cooked through.
Brush with Butter
While the burgers are finishing cooking, mix the melted butter with the hot sauce in a small bowl. Once the patties are cooked, use a brush to generously coat the tops of the burgers with the butter and hot sauce mixture.
Assemble the Burgers
To assemble each burger, place a cooked patty on a bun. Add a generous spread of the whipped feta on top of the patty, followed by a handful of lettuce. Close the bun and serve immediately.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to adjust the level of heat by using more or less hot sauce in the burger mixture or in the butter mixture, depending on personal preference.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers pair well with side dishes such as sweet potato fries or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Storage Instructions
Leftover cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving. The whipped feta spread can be stored separately in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Cook techniques
Mixing Ingredients
When combining ingredients for the chicken burgers, ensure that the ground chicken and seasonings are mixed thoroughly. This helps in achieving a uniform flavor throughout the patties.
Forming Patties
When shaping the burger patties, use wet hands to prevent the mixture from sticking. Aim for even thickness to ensure even cooking.
Cooking Burgers
Cook the chicken patties in a nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. This helps to achieve a crispy exterior while ensuring the inside reaches the safe cooking temperature of 165°F.
Brushing with Butter
Brushing the cooked burgers with a mixture of melted butter and hot sauce enhances the flavor and gives a glossy finish.
Assembling the Burgers
When assembling, spread the whipped feta generously on the bun to complement the spiciness of the chicken burger, followed by fresh lettuce for a crunchy texture.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of meat for the burgers?
Yes, you can substitute the ground chicken with ground turkey or lean ground beef if preferred.
Can I make the whipped feta spread ahead of time?
Yes, the whipped feta spread can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
Is there a vegetarian option for the burger?
You can replace the chicken with a plant-based burger or create a chickpea patty for a vegetarian option.
What can I serve with these buffalo chicken burgers?
These burgers pair well with side dishes like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad.
How do I store leftover burgers?
Leftover burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can be reheated on a skillet or in the microwave.
Conclusion
The Buffalo Chicken Burgers paired with the Whipped Feta Spread create a deliciously spicy and creamy flavor combination, perfect for a hearty meal. The crunch from the lettuce and the savory taste of the burger make this dish a standout choice for any gathering or weeknight dinner.
Buffalo Cauliflower Bites
A vegetarian alternative that combines cauliflower florets tossed in hot sauce and baked until crispy, served alongside whipped feta for dipping.
Spicy Chicken Tacos
Use the same buffalo chicken mixture to fill soft or hard taco shells, topped with whipped feta, lettuce, and diced tomatoes for a zesty twist.
Feta and Spinach Stuffed Chicken
Combine whipped feta with spinach and stuff into chicken breasts, then bake for a deliciously juicy main dish.
Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
Spread buffalo chicken mix and whipped feta between tortillas, grill until golden, and serve with your favorite dipping sauce.
Greek Chicken Salad
Mix grilled or roasted chicken with feta cheese, olives, cucumbers, and a drizzle of olive oil and vinegar for a fresh salad option.
Spicy Feta Dip
Blend whipped feta with additional spices and serve with pita chips or fresh veggies for a tangy appetizer.
