Crispy Chicken Burger Recipe

Prepare chicken

Trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts and cut them into 1" pieces. Pulse the chicken in a food processor 6–8 times until coarsely ground but not pureed (you want some texture). Transfer to a bowl.

Season and bind

To the ground chicken add 1 tsp salt, 1 tsp black pepper, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1/2 tsp onion powder, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, the egg, and 1/2 cup fine dry breadcrumbs. Mix gently with a spatula until just combined; overworking will make patties dense.

Form patties

Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Shape each portion into a 3.5" diameter patty about 1/2" thick. Press a slight dimple in the center of each patty so they cook evenly.

Cook patties

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 1/2 cup vegetable oil. When oil shimmers (about 350°F if using a thermometer), add patties without crowding the pan. Fry 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F. If oil splatters, reduce heat to medium. Drain cooked patties on a paper towel-lined plate.

Prepare tomato and lettuce

While patties cook, wash lettuce leaves and pat dry. Slice the tomato into 1/4" rounds. Lightly season tomato slices with 1/4 tsp kosher salt and 1/8 tsp freshly ground black pepper; set aside.

Toast buns

Butter the cut sides of the buns with 2 tbs butter. In a separate skillet or under a broiler, toast the buns cut-side down over medium heat until golden and crisp, about 1–2 minutes. Keep warm.

Mayo mix

In a small bowl mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1 tsp mustard (optional) to give a subtle tang. Adjust to taste.

Melt cheese

When patties are nearly done, place an American cheese slice on each patty and cover the skillet for 30–45 seconds to melt the cheese.

Spread about 1–2 tbs of the mayo mixture on the bottom half of each toasted bun.

Place a lettuce leaf on the mayo, then a tomato slice. Top with the hot cheesy chicken patty (cheese side up). Add any extra mayo to the top bun if desired, close the burger, and serve immediately.

Serve with ketchup, pickles, or fries as desired.