Chicken Smash Burgers

Ingredients

• 1 lb Ground chicken (high quality, cold)
• Salt (to taste)
• Black pepper (to taste)
• 1 tsp Garlic powder
• 1 tsp Onion powder
• 0.5 tsp Paprika
• 4 Brioche buns (split and toasted)
• 4 Cheddar cheese slices (or American cheese)
• 0.25 cup Mayonnaise (for burger sauce)
• 2 tbsp Ketchup (for burger sauce)
• 1 tsp Yellow mustard (for burger sauce)
• 1 tbsp Sweet pickle relish (for burger sauce)
• 2 tbsp Vegetable oil (for frying)

Steps

1. 1

   In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, and sweet pickle relish. Whisk until smooth and set aside in the refrigerator to let flavors meld.

2. 2

   Divide the cold ground chicken into 4 equal portions and gently roll them into loose balls. Do not overwork the meat or the burgers will be tough.

3. 3

   Heat a large cast-iron skillet or flat-top griddle over medium-high heat until very hot. Lightly coat with vegetable oil.

4. 4

   Place the chicken balls onto the hot skillet, leaving plenty of space between them. Use a heavy spatula (and a second tool to press down if needed) to smash the balls completely flat until they are about 1/4 inch thick.

5. 5

   Season the top of the smashed patties generously with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of paprika.

6. 6

   Cook for 3-4 minutes without moving them, allowing a deep golden-brown crust to form on the bottom.

7. 7

   Carefully scrape under the patties with a thin metal spatula to keep the crust intact and flip them over. Immediately place a slice of cheese on each patty.

8. 8

   Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F) and the cheese is melted.

9. 9

   While the meat finishes, toast the brioche buns on the griddle until golden brown.

10. 10

    Assemble the burgers by spreading a generous amount of sauce on the bottom bun, adding the patty, and topping with the other half of the bun. Serve immediately.

Notes

For the best results, ensure the ground chicken is very cold before hitting the hot pan; this helps create a better sear. If the chicken is sticking to your spatula while smashing, place a small piece of parchment paper between the meat and the spatula.

Nutrition per serving

• main
• burger
• chicken
• smash burger
• dinner
• comfort food
• pan-fried