If you love the crispy edges of smash burgers but are looking for a lighter, protein-packed option, these Chicken Smash Burgers are your answer. Made with juicy ground chicken, melted American cheese, and classic burger toppings, this recipe offers all the indulgence of a diner-style burger without the weight of beef. Perfect for weeknight dinners, game day, or a backyard grill session, this guide will walk you through every step and offer tips to make these smash burgers your new favorite.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
Main Ingredients:
- 4 soft brioche buns
- 1 lb ground chicken
- A few pinches of salt
- A dash of pepper
- 4 slices of yellow American cheese
- 2 tbsp regular or light mayonnaise (optional)
Toppings:
- Shredded iceberg lettuce
- Pickle slices
- Tomato slices
- Burger sauce (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare Your Toppings
Before you start cooking, prepare all your toppings:
- Slice the tomatoes into rounds.
- Finely shred the iceberg lettuce.
- Arrange pickles and burger sauce nearby.
- Set aside everything for easy assembly.
Step 2: Portion and Season the Chicken
- Pat the ground chicken dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Divide the meat into eight 2-ounce portions.
- Gently shape each into a loose ball—don’t overwork it.
- Sprinkle each ball with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Step 3: Toast the Buns
- Lightly spread mayonnaise on the inside of each bun (optional, helps with browning).
- Heat a skillet or griddle over medium-high heat and lightly oil it.
- Place the buns cut-side down and toast until golden and crisp.
- Set toasted buns aside.
Step 4: Smash the Patties
- Place a chicken ball on the hot skillet.
- Cover with a piece of parchment paper.
- Smash down with a heavy spatula to flatten into a thin patty.
- Remove the parchment and sprinkle a bit more salt and pepper.
- Repeat for all patties.
Step 5: Cook and Stack
- Cook each patty for 2–3 minutes on one side until the edges are crispy and the top is turning opaque.
- Flip and immediately place a cheese slice on half the patties.
- Cook the second side for 1–1.5 minutes.
- Stack a plain patty on top of a cheese-covered one to create a double stack.
Step 6: Build Your Burgers
- Place your stacked patties on the toasted bottom buns.
- Add shredded lettuce, tomato, pickles, and burger sauce if using.
- Cap with the top bun and serve immediately.
Cooking Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
Calories
- Approx. 500–550 kcal per burger (based on bun size, mayo, and cheese)
Pro Tips
Use High-Quality Ground Chicken
Choose ground chicken with some fat for juicier patties. Extra lean works, but can dry out more easily.
Don’t Overmix the Meat
Overworking the chicken creates a tough patty. Keep handling minimal when shaping.
Smash with Confidence
Press firmly with a wide spatula or burger press while the meat is still cold.
Use Parchment Paper
This prevents the meat from sticking to the spatula and ensures a flat, even smash.
Toast the Buns
This adds texture and prevents sogginess from sauces or juicy patties.
Serving Ideas
- Serve with sweet potato fries or classic crinkle cuts.
- Offer dipping sauces: garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or classic ketchup.
- Add onion rings or a fried egg for an upscale twist.
- Pair with a side salad for a lighter meal.
Recipe Variations
Spicy Chicken Smash Burgers
Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper to the chicken mixture. Top with jalapeños.
Mediterranean Style
Use tzatziki sauce, sliced cucumber, and crumbled feta instead of classic toppings.
BBQ Chicken Smash Burgers
Brush patties with BBQ sauce while cooking and top with cheddar and grilled onions.
Keto or Low-Carb Version
Skip the buns and serve the burger stacks over a bed of greens or in lettuce wraps.
Cheese Variations
Try Monterey Jack, pepper jack, gouda, or Swiss instead of American cheese.
Storage & Reheating
Refrigeration
Store leftover patties (without buns) in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing
Freeze raw chicken balls or cooked patties (without cheese) for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating
- Skillet: Medium heat for 2–3 minutes per side
- Microwave: 1 minute (not ideal for crispiness)
Perfect For:
- Weeknight dinners
- Backyard BBQs
- Game day sliders
- Meal prep
- Family-style burger nights
Why You’ll Love These Chicken Smash Burgers
- Lean but juicy: A healthier twist on the classic burger.
- Smash-style texture: Crispy edges, juicy center.
- Fast and easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
- Versatile toppings: Customize to suit every taste.
- Great for crowds: Easily doubled or tripled.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Smash Burgers are a creative, lighter twist on the traditional beef smash burger, but they don’t compromise on flavor. Crispy edges, gooey cheese, and fresh toppings all come together on a toasted brioche bun to create the ultimate handheld indulgence.
Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, trying to eat a bit healthier, or simply want something new for burger night, these smash burgers offer big flavor in a simple package.
So grab a skillet, shape those patties, and get smashing! 