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Jalapeno Pepper Jack Chicken Burger is juicy and bursting with flavor for an unforgettable twist on burger night. The mild heat from jalapenos, gooey sharp cheese, and creamy avocado make every bite crave-worthy.
I started making these to break up traditional burger nights and now my friends ask for them every summer cookout. There is something about melty cheese and spicy jalapenos that nobody can resist.
Ingredients
- Ground chicken: gives a juicy and light burger make sure it is fresh and has not reached its sell-by date
- Garlic: fresh cloves bring real depth mince for even flavor
- Onion: diced finely for texture and subtle sweetness look for a firm onion with no soft spots
- Jalapeno peppers: provide spice adjust to taste choose smooth and firm peppers
- Paprika: gives a smoky warmth Spanish variety works best
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: to enhance natural flavors
- Shredded pepper jack cheese: delivers gooey texture and peppery kick buy pre-shredded or grate your own
- Fresh cilantro: adds brightness select bunches with vibrant green leaves
- Vegetable or olive oil: is needed for grilling use a high smoke point oil
- Hamburger buns: soft sturdy ones hold up best
- Optional cheese slices: like American or white cheddar for extra cheesiness
- For Roasted Garlic Mayo: roasted garlic adds sweetness and depth good quality mayonnaise for creamy richness
- Guacamole: ripe avocados creamy texture with lime and fresh cilantro always check for gentle ripeness before buying
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the Roasted Garlic Mayo:
- Mix roasted garlic and mayonnaise in a small bowl sprinkle with salt and pepper stir well cover and keep chilled for later use this spreads creamy flavor throughout every bite
- Prep the Grill:
- Heat your grill to medium high wipe the grate with oiled paper towel to prevent sticking
- Mix and Shape the Patties:
- Combine ground chicken diced onion minced garlic chopped jalapeno paprika salt pepper shredded cheese and cilantro in a large mixing bowl use your hands for a gentle even mix then divide into eight equal patties avoid overmixing for juicy burgers
- Grill the Burgers:
- Place patties directly on the grill cook covered for eight minutes per side until thoroughly cooked internal temperature should reach 165 degrees to keep them safe and moist at the last minute add cheese slices and let melt
- Toast the Buns:
- Open the buns and lightly toast on the grill for extra texture and to hold all your toppings
- Assemble and Add Toppings:
- Spread roasted garlic mayo on each bun bottom add a burger patty top with guacamole and any favorite toppings lettuce tomato even more jalapenos finish with the bun top and serve right away
- Make the Guacamole:
- Halve avocados remove pits and scoop out flesh mash with a fork stir in chopped cilantro fresh lime juice plus salt and pepper taste and adjust seasoning
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My favorite part is mashing the guacamole while the burgers grill the smell of the roasted garlic and lime makes me smile every time. The first time my little brother tried this burger he asked for seconds and begged for more guac.
Storage Tips
Store extra garlic mayo in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to five days. Cooked burgers hold up well in the fridge for two days and can be reheated gently on a skillet or microwave. If you want to freeze uncooked patties separate them with parchment and store in a zip-top bag for up to two months.
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap ground turkey for chicken with equally juicy results just watch as turkey can dry out if overcooked. For less spice omit jalapeno or swap in green bell pepper. Monterey jack or mozzarella can replace pepper jack if you need a milder cheese. Fresh basil or parsley can stand in for cilantro.
Serving Suggestions
Pile burgers high with lettuce tomato crispy onions or pickles if desired. Serve alongside sweet potato fries corn on the cob or a simple garden salad. These burgers love a cold lager or lemonade by their side.
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Cultural or Historical Context
Chicken burgers rose in popularity as people looked for lighter burger alternatives that still pack plenty of flavor. Pepper jack cheese brings a Southwestern kick while guacamole adds a classic California touch. Together with roasted garlic mayo this burger blends coast-to-coast American influences all between a bun.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How spicy are jalapeno pepper jack chicken burgers?
The heat level depends on the amount of jalapeno used and whether you leave the seeds in. Removing seeds keeps it milder, while adding extra peppers increases the spice.
- → What cheese works best besides pepper jack?
Pepper jack offers a spicy kick, but American, cheddar, or Monterey Jack also melt well and add great flavor to chicken burgers.
- → Can these chicken burgers be cooked without a grill?
Yes, pan-frying in a skillet with a little olive oil works well. Cook until patties reach 165°F and cheese melts on top.
- → How do you make roasted garlic mayo?
Mash roasted garlic with mayonnaise, salt, and pepper for a creamy, savory spread to top your burgers.
- → What are the best toppings for these burgers?
Fresh guacamole, crisp lettuce, sliced tomato, and pickled onions add great texture and flavor to the juicy burgers.