Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Nothing satisfies like a spicy chipotle chicken burger when you want something bold and smoky for dinner. These burgers pack a punch with smoky peppers, juicy ground chicken, and a creamy chipotle mayo. They come together quickly and always fire up the crowd at my house whether for casual weeknights or friend get-togethers.

The first time I made these at a summer barbecue, there were no leftovers and all my friends begged for the recipe. Now it is a must for every family grill night.

Ingredients

• Ground chicken: brings juicy texture and a leaner base than beef so choose fresh chicken for best flavor
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: deliver smoky heat so look for plump, soft peppers and a rich red sauce
• Adobo sauce: not only adds moisture but gives the meat layers of flavor make sure your can is vibrant and thick
• Smoked paprika: provides a deep smoky note so Spanish paprika is best if available
• Ground cumin: gives warmth and earthiness buy freshly ground spice for best aroma
• Garlic powder and onion powder: add heartiness and mellow savor be sure they are not clumpy or stale
• Salt and black pepper: enhance and balance all other flavors always use fresh ground pepper if possible
• Lime juice: lifts and brightens everything use freshly squeezed for zing
• Breadcrumbs or panko: ensure the patties hold together and add crunch opt for plain panko for extra texture
• Egg: binds the mixture so choose highly fresh eggs
• Mayonnaise: forms the base for chipotle mayo select real mayo for creaminess
• Lettuce leaves: provide crispness look for bright green leaves
• Tomatoes: add sweetness use ripe and firm slices
• Red onions: layer in a mild bite opt for purplish skin and no green rings inside
• Pickled jalapenos: bring extra tang and fire so choose slices with clear color and no mushiness
• Pepper jack cheese slices: are optional but give a melty kick pick a block and slice for best melt

Step-by-Step Instructions

Mix the Chicken Patty Mixture:

In a large bowl combine ground chicken finely chopped chipotle peppers an ample spoon of adobo sauce smoked paprika cumin garlic powder onion powder salt freshly ground black pepper a squeeze of lime juice your breadcrumbs or panko and the egg. Mix with clean hands until everything is evenly combined without overworking the meat to keep patties tender.

Shape and Prepare Patties:

Divide the mixture into four even portions. Gently shape each into a patty about the size of your buns. Press your thumb into the center of each patty to make a small dip. This keeps the burgers flat and helps them cook evenly instead of puffing up.

Cook the Chicken Patties:

Get your grill or skillet hot and brush lightly with oil. Place the patties on and let them cook for about five minutes per side until golden on the outside and steaming hot inside. Patty should reach one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit. If you want cheese gently lay a slice on each patty in the last minute and cover the grill or pan so it melts perfectly.

Make the Chipotle Mayo:

In a small mixing bowl stir together mayonnaise one more chopped chipotle pepper a glug of lime juice a sprinkle of garlic powder and a tiny pinch of salt. Mix well and taste to adjust the seasoning. The sauce should be creamy smoky and a little tangy.

Assemble the Burger:

Lay out your toasted buns. Slather the bottom with chipotle mayo. Pile on a lettuce leaf your hot chicken patty tomato slices some thin red onion and pickled jalapenos for extra zing if you like. Top with the other half of the bun and gently press so all the layers mingle.

Serve Hot:

Get the burgers onto plates right away. Enjoy with fries salad or tangy slaw for the ultimate meal.

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My favorite part is the smoky chipotle mayo. I love swiping it on everything from sandwiches to grilled veggies. Once my youngest child helped mix the mayo and declared it the best sauce ever—now we all call it “magic sauce.”

Storage Tips

Store leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The chipotle mayo will keep in the fridge for a week. If you want to freeze the patties stack them with parchment paper and seal in a zip bag. Thaw overnight and reheat gently for best juiciness.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can substitute ground turkey for chicken if you prefer a different protein. If chipotle peppers are too spicy use half the amount or swap for mild canned green chilies and a smoked hot sauce. Brioche or whole wheat buns work great for extra flavor. Try Swiss or cheddar cheese if you want something less spicy than pepper jack.

Serving Suggestions

These burgers shine with sides like sweet potato fries crunchy slaw or a crisp green salad. For a fun twist serve on mini slider buns at parties. Add avocado slices or a smear of fresh guacamole to play up the southwest flavor.

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Cultural or Historical Context

Chipotle peppers have long roots in Mexican cuisine known for their smoky heat and rich earthy flavor. Adobo sauce is a classic ingredient in central Mexico used for marinades and sauces that add depth to meats. Turning them into burgers brings together American cookout culture with bold Mexican spice for a meal everyone loves.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey works well and absorbs the chipotle flavors nicely. Adjust seasoning to taste.

→ How do I keep the patties moist?

Using egg and breadcrumbs helps bind and retain moisture. Avoid overcooking for juicier patties.

→ Is the burger very spicy?

It has a noticeable kick from chipotles, but you can adjust the peppers and adobo sauce to your heat preference.

→ Can the chipotle mayo be made ahead?

Absolutely. Prepare the mayo up to 3 days in advance and refrigerate in an airtight container.

→ What are good side dishes?

Crispy fries, coleslaw, or a fresh salad complement the smoky and spicy flavors wonderfully.

→ Is cheese necessary?

The pepper jack cheese adds heat and creaminess, but you can skip it or use your favorite alternative.