Juicy Cajun Chicken Burgers

A hand holds a sesame seed bun sandwich with a grilled chicken patty, cheddar cheese, tomato, and sauce. In the background, a plate with French fries is visible.

These juicy Cajun chicken burgers combine ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, and Cajun seasoning into a tender patty topped with melted cheddar and a smoky chipotle mayo. Ready in 30 minutes.

Prep Time15

Cook Time15

Total Time30

Servings:

Calories: 526kcal

Ingredients

For the Chicken Burgers

1 pound ground chicken or ground turkey (not extra lean)
½ medium onion finely grated
2 garlic cloves minced
¼ cup plain breadcrumbs
1½ teaspoons salt-free Cajun seasoning or 1 teaspoon regular Cajun seasoning that contains salt
1 teaspoon kosher salt or ¾ teaspoon table salt; omit if using a salted Cajun seasoning

Smoky Chipotle Mayo

⅓ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon chipotle sauce or finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1 teaspoon fresh lime juice

Optional toppings/sides:

4 burger buns buttered on the inside
4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
Lettuce leaves
Red onion thinly sliced
Sliced avocado, tomato, crispy bacon, or pickles
French fries or a side salad

Instructions

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated onion, minced garlic, breadcrumbs, Cajun seasoning, and salt (if needed). Mix gently with your hands until just combined. Avoid overmixing, as it can make the burgers dense.
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ½-inch thick. Since ground chicken is sticky, lightly wet your hands or coat them with a little oil to make shaping easier.
Preheat a grill or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. If using a skillet, add a small drizzle of oil.
Cook the burgers for 5–6 minutes on the first side, then carefully flip and cook another 4–6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
During the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each burger and cover the skillet or close the grill lid until the cheese melts.
While the burgers finish cooking, place the buttered buns cut-side down on the grill or skillet and toast for about 1 minute until golden.
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, chipotle sauce, and lime juice until smooth.
Spread the chipotle mayo on both halves of each toasted bun. Layer with lettuce, the cheesy chicken burger, sliced red onion, and the top bun.
Serve immediately with crispy French fries or a fresh side salad.

Notes

Don't overmix the meat or the burgers may become tough. Ground chicken is naturally softer than ground beef, so chilling the patties for 10–15 minutes before cooking can help them hold their shape.
For even more smoky flavor, cook the burgers on an outdoor grill.

Storage

Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. The chipotle mayo can be refrigerated separately for up to 5 days.

Nutrition