Jalapeno Pepper Jack Chicken Burger Recipe
A flavorful and spicy Jalapeno Pepper Jack Chicken Burger recipe featuring juicy ground chicken patties infused with jalapenos, pepper jack cheese, and fresh cilantro, topped with roasted garlic mayo and creamy homemade guacamole. Perfect for grilling and serving on toasted buns for a delicious homemade burger experience.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 16 minutes
- Total Time: 31 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Chicken Burger Patties
- 2 lbs ground chicken
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 onion, finely diced
- 1–2 jalapeno peppers, seeded and finely diced
- 2 teaspoons paprika
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper
- 3/4 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Vegetable or olive oil (for grill)
- 8 slices cheese (optional; American or white cheddar recommended)
- 8 hamburger buns
Roasted Garlic Mayonnaise
- 1 head of roasted garlic
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- Salt and pepper to taste
Guacamole
- 2 large avocados
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tablespoons cilantro, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Roasted Garlic Mayonnaise: Place a head of garlic on a piece of foil, drizzle a teaspoon of olive oil over it, then wrap tightly in the foil. Bake in an oven preheated to 400°F (200°C) for about 40 minutes or until the garlic is soft. Squeeze the roasted garlic out of its skin into a bowl, add 1/3 cup mayonnaise, salt, and pepper to taste, and mix until combined. Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, ensuring it’s ready for cooking the burgers.
- Make the Chicken Patties: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced garlic, finely diced onion, diced jalapenos, paprika, kosher salt, fresh ground pepper, shredded pepper jack cheese, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently to combine all ingredients evenly—avoid overmixing to keep patties tender.
- Form Patties: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions and shape each into a burger patty.
- Oil the Grill Grate: Lightly coat the grill grates with vegetable oil by dipping a paper towel in oil and wiping it over the grates. This prevents sticking and promotes even cooking.
- Grill the Burgers: Place the chicken patties on the grill over direct heat. Cover and cook for about 8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Near the end of cooking, add a slice of cheese on top of each patty if desired, allowing it to melt.
- Prepare the Guacamole: Cut avocados in half, remove the pits, and scoop the flesh into a bowl. Mash with a fork until you reach your preferred consistency. Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the hamburger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster. Spread the roasted garlic mayonnaise on the bottom bun, add the grilled chicken patty with melted cheese, top with guacamole, and any additional preferred toppings. Finish with the top bun.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the burgers immediately while warm. This recipe yields 6-8 servings depending on portion size.
Notes
- For a milder burger, reduce or omit jalapenos.
- Ensure chicken patties are cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety.
- Roasted garlic mayo can be made a day ahead and refrigerated.
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, especially cilantro and lime juice.
- Adding cheese is optional but adds a creamy texture and flavor.
- You can substitute ground turkey for chicken if preferred.
- Toast buns lightly for better texture and flavor.
