Spicy Chicken Burger Recipe

This recipe for Spicy Chicken Burgers offers a tantalizing blend of flavors for the perfect weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue. Infused with the heat of Frank's RedHot Sauce and the refreshing tang of lime crema, it is a gourmet take on the classic chicken burger.

Photos of Spicy Chicken Burger Recipe

The star ingredient in this recipe is the unique Frank's RedHot Sauce. Known for its balanced blend of heat and flavor, it is readily available in most supermarkets. If not, a good substitute would be any other hot sauce you prefer or have on hand. Another ingredient that might not be commonly found is the brioche burger buns. These buns are slightly sweet and buttery, but if you can't find them, any soft burger bun would work.

Ingredients for Spicy Chicken Burger

Sour cream: Used as a base for the creamy lime crema, it adds a tangy twist to the burger.

Frank’s red hot® sauce: This adds a fiery kick to the chicken patties and the lime crema.

Ground chicken: The main component of the burger patty. It's lean and takes on flavor well.

Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet, slightly tangy flavor to the chicken patties.

Garlic powder and Onion powder: These add a savory depth to the chicken patties.

Pepper jack cheese: Melts beautifully and adds a spicy kick.

Brioche burger buns: Rich and slightly sweet, these buns complement the spicy chicken patty.

Butter lettuce leaf: Adds a touch of freshness and crunch to the burger.

Avocado: Creamy and rich, adds a cooling balance to the heat of the burger.

Pickled fresnos: Gives an extra punch and tang that brings the burger together.

One reader, Lauryn Cosby says:

This spicy chicken burger recipe is a game-changer! The combination of the zesty lime crema and the flavorful chicken patty is simply mouthwatering. The kick from the hot sauce adds the perfect amount of heat. It's a must-try for anyone who loves a little spice in their meals!

Lauryn Cosby

Key Techniques for Making a Spicy Chicken Burger

How to prepare the Frank’s® Red Hot Lime Crema: Whisk together the sour cream, Frank’s® Red Hot sauce, lime juice and zest, and salt in a small bowl until well combined. Set aside.

How to make the chicken patties: In a large bowl, gently mix together the ground chicken, red bell pepper, Frank’s RedHot® sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt until just combined. Divide the mixture into 4 even portions and shape them into 4-inch patties using wet hands.

How to cook the chicken patties: Heat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the canola oil once the skillet is hot and shimmering. Cook the chicken patties for 5 minutes on each side, adding a slice of pepper jack cheese on top, until the internal temperature reaches 165 degrees F.

How to assemble the burgers: Spread the Frank’s® Red Hot Lime Crema on both sides of each bun. Place a lettuce leaf on each bottom bun, then top with the cooked patties, avocado, and pickled chilies. Finally, add the top bun, serve, and enjoy!

How To Make Spicy Chicken Burger

Cook up this mouthwatering spicy chicken burger for lunch today! It comes with a delicious lime crema, and can be whipped up in under 30 minutes.

Preparation: 20 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Frank’s® Red Hot Lime Crema:

1cupsour cream
2tbspFrank’s Red Hot® Sauce
1lime,juiced
lime zest,of 1 lime
1tspkosher salt

For Chicken Patties:

1½lbground chicken
¼cupred bell pepper,minced
2tbspFrank’s RedHot® Sauce
1tspgarlic powder
1tsponion powder
3tspkosher salt
2tbspcanola oil
4pepper jack cheese slices

For Assembly:

4brioche burger buns,toasted
butter lettuce leaf
1avocado,thinly sliced
pickled chily

Instructions

Frank’s® Red Hot Lime Crema:

In a small bowl, whisk together the sour cream, Frank’s® Red Hot Sauce, lime juice and zest, and salt. Set aside.

Chicken Patties:

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, fresno chiles, Frank’s RedHot® Sauce, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder, then mix gently with hands until just combined.
Divide the mixture into 4 even portions, then shape them into 4-inch patties using wet hands.
Heat a 12-inch cast iron skillet over medium heat.
When the skillet is hot, add the canola oil.
When the oil starts to shimmer, add the chicken patties and cook for 5 minutes, until the bottom is golden brown and the bottom ⅓ of the patty looks cooked with a white hue.
Flip the patties, then add a slice of pepper Jack cheese.
Reduce the heat to low and continue to cook for 5 minutes, until the internal temperature of the center of the patties reaches 165 degrees F.

To Assemble Burgers:

Spread the Frank’s® Red Hot lime crema on both sides of each bun.
Place a lettuce on each bottom bun, then top with the patties, avocado, and pickled fresnos.
Top with the top bun, serve, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 731.64kcal
Fat: 49.66g
Saturated Fat: 17.84g
Trans Fat: 0.14g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.25g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.89g
Carbohydrates: 30.86g
Fiber: 5.15g
Sugar: 5.67g
Protein: 43.36g
Cholesterol: 201.10mg
Sodium: 917.02mg
Calcium: 372.57mg
Potassium: 1362.70mg
Iron: 3.72mg
Vitamin A: 183.98µg
Vitamin C: 28.46mg

Essential Technique for Perfecting Your Spicy Chicken Burger

When forming the chicken patties, be sure not to overwork the mixture. Overmixing can result in tough and dense patties. Instead, gently combine the ingredients until they are just mixed. This will ensure your chicken burgers are juicy and tender. Additionally, using wet hands to shape the patties can prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands, making the process easier and cleaner.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing Spicy Chicken Burgers

Prep ahead: Prepare the Frank's Red Hot Lime Crema and the chicken patties a day in advance to save time on the day of cooking.

Use a food processor: Use a food processor to finely chop the red bell pepper and fresno chiles for the chicken patties, saving time and ensuring even distribution of ingredients.

Organize ingredients: Before starting the recipe, organize all the ingredients and kitchen tools needed to streamline the cooking process.

Multi-task: While the chicken patties are cooking, prepare the buns and toppings to make the most of your time in the kitchen.

Cleanup as you go: Wash and put away utensils and bowls as you cook to minimize the cleanup time at the end.

Substitute Ingredients For Spicy Chicken Burger Recipe

sour cream - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt has a similar tangy flavor and creamy texture, making it a suitable replacement for sour cream in this recipe.
frank’s red hot® sauce - Substitute with Tabasco sauce: Tabasco sauce provides a similar level of heat and tanginess, making it a good alternative to Frank's Red Hot sauce.
ground chicken - Substitute with ground turkey: Ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground chicken, and it will still provide a delicious flavor in the burger patties.
red bell pepper - Substitute with green bell pepper: Green bell peppers can be used as a substitute for red bell peppers, providing a slightly different flavor but still adding a nice crunch to the chicken patties.
brioche burger buns - Substitute with pretzel buns: Pretzel buns offer a similar rich and slightly sweet flavor, which complements the spicy chicken burger well.
butter lettuce leaf - Substitute with romaine lettuce leaf: Romaine lettuce leaves can be used as a substitute for butter lettuce, providing a crisp and refreshing texture to the burger.

Presenting Your Spicy Chicken Burger

Elevate the burger bun: Lightly toast the brioche burger buns to add a subtle crunch and enhance the overall texture of the burger.
Artful arrangement of ingredients: Carefully layer the butter lettuce, avocado, and pickled fresnos to create a visually appealing and appetizing presentation.
Garnish with lime zest: Sprinkle a touch of fresh lime zest over the assembled burger to add a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma.
Drizzle with Frank's® Red Hot Lime Crema: Use a squeeze bottle to delicately drizzle the zesty crema over the burger, creating an artistic and flavorful finishing touch.
Serve with precision: Present the burger on a clean, white plate, ensuring that the components are positioned thoughtfully and with attention to detail.

Essential Tools for Crafting the Perfect Spicy Chicken Burger

Small bowl: A small bowl is useful for mixing and combining small amounts of ingredients, such as the lime crema.
Whisk: A whisk is essential for blending the sour cream, hot sauce, lime juice, and salt together to create the Frank's Red Hot lime crema.
Large bowl: A large bowl is necessary for mixing the ground chicken, red hot sauce, salt, garlic powder, and onion powder to form the chicken patties.
Cast iron skillet: A cast iron skillet is used for cooking the chicken patties, providing even heat distribution and a nice sear.
Tongs: Tongs are helpful for flipping the chicken patties and adding the cheese slice during the cooking process.
Spatula: A spatula is useful for transferring the cooked chicken patties onto the burger buns during assembly.
Knife: A knife is essential for slicing the avocado and any other ingredients that may require cutting.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for slicing and preparing the avocado and other ingredients for the burger assembly.

Storing and Freezing Your Spicy Chicken Burger Creation

To store leftover spicy chicken burgers, allow them to cool completely to room temperature before placing them in an airtight container or wrapping them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
If you want to freeze the chicken patties, it's best to do so before cooking. Shape the patties and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Freeze until solid, then transfer the frozen patties to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
To freeze cooked chicken burgers, let them cool completely, then wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil. Place the wrapped burgers in a freezer-safe bag or container, label with the date, and freeze for up to 2 months.
When ready to eat frozen chicken patties, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Cook as directed in the recipe, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they're heated through.
To reheat frozen cooked chicken burgers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Wrap the burgers in aluminum foil and place them in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, but the buns may become soggy.
Store leftover Frank's® Red Hot Lime Crema in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Give it a good stir before using it again, as the ingredients may separate slightly.

How To Reheat Leftover Spicy Chicken Burgers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the chicken burger in aluminum foil and place it on a baking sheet. Heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This method helps to retain the burger's moisture and keeps the bun from getting too soggy.
If you have an air fryer, you can reheat your spicy chicken burger in just a few minutes. Preheat the air fryer to 350°F (175°C) and place the burger inside. Cook for 3-5 minutes, or until heated through. The air fryer will help to crisp up the exterior of the bun while keeping the inside soft and warm.
For a quick and easy method, you can use your microwave. Place the chicken burger on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-60 seconds, depending on the strength of your microwave. To prevent the bun from getting soggy, you can wrap the burger in a damp paper towel before microwaving.
If you want to reheat your spicy chicken burger on the stovetop, heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of butter or oil to the pan, then place the burger inside. Cover the skillet with a lid and heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the burger is heated through and the cheese is melted.
For a crispy exterior, you can also reheat your chicken burger on a grill or griddle. Preheat the grill or griddle to medium heat and place the burger on the cooking surface. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until the burger is heated through and the bun is lightly toasted.

Fascinating Fact About Spicy Chicken Burgers

The Frank's Red Hot Lime Crema adds a tangy and spicy kick to the chicken burger, elevating the flavor profile and making it a delicious and unique dish.

Is Making Spicy Chicken Burgers at Home Cost-Effective?

The spicy chicken burger recipe is relatively cost-effective for a household. The use of ground chicken and simple ingredients keeps the cost down. The frank's red hot lime crema adds a zesty kick, enhancing the overall flavor. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $20. The overall verdict rating for this recipe is 8/10, considering the balance of cost and flavor.

Is the Spicy Chicken Burger Healthy or Unhealthy?

The spicy chicken burger recipe, while flavorful, leans towards the unhealthy side due to several factors:

High saturated fat content from the sour cream, cheese, and avocado
Elevated sodium levels from the Frank's RedHot sauce and added salt
Refined carbohydrates in the brioche buns, which lack fiber and nutrients
Deep frying the chicken patties adds extra fat and calories

However, the recipe does include some healthier elements, such as lean protein from the chicken and nutrients from the bell pepper and lettuce.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following modifications:

Swap the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lower-fat, protein-rich alternative
Reduce the amount of cheese or opt for a lower-fat variety
Choose whole-grain or lettuce wraps instead of brioche buns for added fiber and fewer refined carbs
Grill or bake the chicken patties instead of frying to reduce fat content
Incorporate more vegetables, such as sliced tomatoes or grilled zucchini, for added nutrients and fiber

Additionally, you could experiment with using a leaner ground chicken or turkey, and make your own healthier version of the hot sauce using fresh ingredients like cayenne pepper, vinegar, and spices. Moderation is key when enjoying this spicy chicken burger, so be mindful of portion sizes and consider pairing it with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.

Editor's Opinion on the Spicy Chicken Burger Recipe

The spicy chicken burger recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The Frank's Red Hot Lime Crema adds a zesty kick, complementing the juicy chicken patties perfectly. The use of pepper jack cheese and pickled chilies adds a depth of flavor, while the butter lettuce and avocado provide a refreshing contrast. The cooking method ensures a moist and flavorful patty, and the brioche buns are an excellent choice for this burger. Overall, this recipe offers a tantalizing twist on a classic burger, making it a must-try for anyone who enjoys a bit of heat and a burst of flavor in their meal.

Enhance Your Spicy Chicken Burger Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes tossed in a savory garlic parmesan seasoning, perfect for pairing with the spicy chicken burger.

Grilled Pineapple Slices: Juicy pineapple slices grilled to perfection, adding a sweet and tangy contrast to the spicy chicken burger.

Creamy Coleslaw with Apple: A creamy and refreshing coleslaw with a hint of sweetness from crisp apple, providing a cool and crunchy side to complement the heat of the chicken burger.

Delicious Alternatives to the Spicy Chicken Burger

Spicy Chicken Tacos: Marinate the chicken with a blend of spices and grill to perfection. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Mango Salsa Chicken Salad: Grill the chicken and serve it on a bed of mixed greens, topped with a refreshing mango salsa and a tangy vinaigrette dressing.

Honey Sriracha Glazed Salmon: Coat the salmon with a sweet and spicy honey sriracha glaze, then bake until flaky and serve with a side of roasted vegetables.

Perfect Appetizers and Desserts for Your Spicy Chicken Burger Meal

Appetizers:

Spicy Chicken Wings: These wings are marinated in a spicy sauce and then baked to crispy perfection. The heat from the spices will leave your taste buds tingling and craving for more.

Crispy Jalapeno Poppers: These jalapeno poppers are stuffed with a creamy cheese filling and then coated in a crispy breadcrumb crust. The combination of the spicy jalapeno and the creamy cheese is a flavor explosion in every bite.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Indulge in a decadent, rich chocolate lava cake that oozes with warm, gooey chocolate from the center. Pair it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect balance of sweetness and richness.

Strawberry Cheesecake: Create a luscious and creamy strawberry cheesecake with a buttery graham cracker crust. Top it with fresh strawberries and a drizzle of strawberry sauce for a burst of fruity flavor in every bite.

Why trust this Spicy Chicken Burger Recipe:

This recipe is a must-try for all spicy food lovers! The combination of frank's red hot sauce and lime in the crema adds a zesty kick, while the ground chicken patty is seasoned to perfection with garlic and onion powder. The use of pepper jack cheese and pickled fresnos adds a delightful twist to the classic burger. Plus, the detailed instructions ensure that even novice cooks can create a mouthwatering chicken burger with ease. Trust this recipe to elevate your burger game and impress your taste buds!

Share your thoughts on the Spicy Chicken Burger Recipe in the Recipe Sharing forum and let us know if you have any tips or variations to make it even better!

FAQ:

What is the level of spiciness in this spicy chicken burger recipe?

The level of spiciness in this recipe can be adjusted to your preference by adding more or less of the Frank's RedHot® sauce. It offers a nice kick without being overwhelming, but feel free to customize it to your taste.

Can I substitute ground chicken with another type of meat?

Yes, you can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey or ground beef if you prefer. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly depending on the meat you choose.

How can I make the chicken patties ahead of time?

You can prepare the chicken patties ahead of time and refrigerate them until you're ready to cook. Just make sure to cover them tightly to prevent any air exposure, and they should be good to go when you're ready to cook.

Is there a vegetarian option for this recipe?

If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can try using a plant-based ground meat substitute and adjust the seasonings to mimic the flavors of the original recipe. It won't be exactly the same, but it's a great way to enjoy a meatless version of this burger.

Can I make the Frank's RedHot lime crema in advance?

Yes, you can make the Frank's RedHot lime crema in advance and store it in the refrigerator. It's actually a great idea to let the flavors meld together, so making it ahead of time can enhance the taste. Just give it a good stir before using it on your burgers.