Sep 04 2026
RestaurantsNiko's Breakfast ClubSpecialty Sandwiches & Burgers Recipe

Specialty Sandwiches & Burgers Recipe

Time1h
Serves4

Make Specialty Sandwiches & Burgers Recipe in just 1h . Get the full recipe with step-by-step instructions at pekinthechef.com.

Was this page helpful?

Help improve this recipe for others.

Send this recipe to your inbox.

We'll email it straight to you - plus weekly cooking inspiration.

Ingredients

Some product links may be affiliates. If you buy through them, you're supporting the site and Pekin may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Classic Cheeseburger

Method

Classic Cheeseburger

  1. 1

    Prepare patties

    Divide ground beef into 4 equal portions (about 4 oz each). Gently form into loose patties slightly wider than the buns, about 3/4" thick. Season both sides with kosher salt, black pepper and a few drops of Worcestershire sauce, pressing lightly so the seasoning adheres. Make a shallow dimple in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent doming while cooking.

  2. 2

    Toast buns

    Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat. Spread softened butter evenly on the cut sides of the burger buns. Place buns butter-side down on the skillet and toast until golden, about 1–2 minutes. Remove and keep warm.

  3. 3

    Cook patties

    Increase heat to medium-high and add 1 tsp vegetable oil to the skillet. When shimmering, add the patties (work in batches if necessary). Cook undisturbed for 3–4 minutes until a brown crust forms. Flip and cook another 3 minutes for medium, or until desired doneness. On the last 30–60 seconds, place a slice of cheddar on each patty and cover the pan briefly to melt the cheese.

  4. 4

    Assemble

    Mix mayonnaise, yellow mustard and ketchup in a small bowl to make a simple burger sauce. Spread sauce on both bun halves. On the bottom bun place lettuce, then the cheeseburger patty, tomato slice, red onion and pickle slices. Cap with the top bun and serve immediately.

Spicy Chicken Sandwich

  1. 5

    Marinate chicken

    Place chicken breasts (halved if large or pounded to 1/2" thickness) in a shallow dish. Whisk together buttermilk and hot sauce, pour over the chicken, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours) to tenderize and impart heat.

  2. 6

    Make breading

    In a wide shallow bowl, combine all-purpose flour, cornstarch, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt and black pepper. Mix thoroughly to distribute spices.

  3. 7

    Dredge and fry

    Heat vegetable oil in a skillet to 350°F (175°C) — about 1/2" deep — or a medium-hot temperature where a pinch of flour sizzles on contact. Remove chicken from buttermilk, letting excess drip off, then dredge thoroughly in the flour mixture, pressing to coat well. Fry chicken pieces in batches 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Drain on a wire rack set over a baking sheet or on paper towels.

  4. 8

    Finish sandwich

    Split and toast buns lightly in a dry skillet or buttered pan. Place a fried chicken piece on the bottom bun, top with a slice of pepper jack, a scoop of prepared coleslaw, then the top bun. Serve hot.

Vegetarian Portobello Sandwich

  1. 9

    Marinate mushrooms

    Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, minced garlic, thyme, salt and black pepper. Brush both sides of each portobello cap with the marinade and let rest for 10–15 minutes so they absorb flavor.

  2. 10

    Cook mushrooms

    Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Place marinated mushrooms gill-side down and grill 4–5 minutes per side until tender and slightly charred. Alternatively, roast in a 425°F (220°C) oven for 12–15 minutes, flipping once.

  3. 11

    Assemble sandwich

    Split ciabatta rolls and gently toast cut sides. Spread goat cheese on the bottom halves, layer with grilled portobello caps, roasted red peppers and arugula. Close with the top halves and press gently. Slice in half and serve warm or at room temperature.

More from Niko's Breakfast Club