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–+ servings

California Italian Chicken Burgers

Juicy Italian chicken burgers with melted cheese, fresh basil, and tomato, perfect for summer grilling.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Chicken, Grilling & BBQ, Main Dishes
Cuisine: American, Italian
Calories: 380
Ingredients Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Burger Patties
  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 1/4 tsp salt fine sea salt preferred
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 large egg lightly beaten
  • 1 cup seasoned panko breadcrumbs
Additional Ingredients
  • fresh basil leaves about 12 leaves
  • 1 large tomato sliced into 4 rounds
  • 4 slices Italian cheese blend such as Sargento 5 Cheese Italian
  • 4 hamburger buns split and lightly toasted

Method
 

Make Patties
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, pepper, oregano, beaten egg, and panko. Mix gently until just combined; do not overwork.
  2. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about 3/4 inch thick. Place on a plate, cover, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours) to firm up.
Grill
  1. Preheat a gas or charcoal grill to medium-high heat (350-375°F). Clean and oil the grates.
  2. Grill patties for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). During the last minute, top each patty with a slice of Italian cheese and close the grill lid to melt.
  3. Toast the buns on the grill over indirect heat for about 1 minute, until lightly golden.
Assemble
  1. Place each patty on a toasted bun bottom. Top with fresh basil leaves and a tomato slice. Close with bun tops and serve immediately.

Nutrition

Calories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 28gFat: 16gSaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 120mgSodium: 620mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5g

Notes

For extra flavor, add 1 minced garlic clove or 1 tbsp grated Parmesan to the patty mix.
If you don't have seasoned panko, use plain panko plus 1/4 tsp each garlic powder and dried basil.
Make patties a day ahead and keep refrigerated; they hold well.
Don't skip the chilling step—it helps the patties hold together on the grill.
Serve with a side of arugula salad or grilled zucchini for a complete California-style meal.

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