Spicy Chicken Burgers With Mango Salsa Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Original recipe yields 4 servings.

Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1/3 cup panko bread crumbs
• 1/3 cup chopped red onion
• 1 large egg
• 1 lime, zested and juiced
• 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 5 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1 mango, peeled, seeded, and chopped
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices gouda cheese
• 4 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 cup shredded lettuce

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, chopped onion, egg, lime zest, cilantro, minced garlic, and chipotle peppers. Mix well until everything is evenly incorporated.
2. Shape the mixture into four equal patties, each weighing about 1/4 pound.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grate to prevent sticking.
4. In a small bowl, combine the chopped mango with the lime juice and set it aside for the topping.
5. Place the chicken patties on the preheated grill. Cook for 5 to 8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is no longer pink inside, the juices run clear, and the patties have a nice golden-brown grill mark. Use an instant-read thermometer to check that the internal temperature has reached 165F (74C).
6. About 2 minutes before the burgers are done, place the hamburger buns on the grill. Toast each side for about 1 minute or until lightly browned.
7. One minute before the burgers are finished, place a slice of gouda cheese on each patty and allow it to melt over the chicken.
8. To assemble the burgers, spread 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun.
9. Top the mayonnaise with 1/4 cup shredded lettuce, followed by a grilled chicken patty with melted cheese.
10. Spoon 1/4 of the mango-lime mixture over each burger, then top with the other half of the bun to serve.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	729
Total Fat	35g
Saturated Fat	11g
Cholesterol	206mg
Sodium	808mg
Total Carbohydrate	63g
Dietary Fiber	6g
Total Sugars	22g
Protein	44g
Vitamin C	63mg
Calcium	383mg
Iron	5mg
Potassium	1298mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Spicy Chicken Burgers With Mango Salsa

The spicy chicken burger, topped with sweet and tangy mango salsa, is a modern culinary creation that blends diverse cultural influences. While chicken burgers themselves gained popularity in the United States during the late 20th century as a lighter alternative to beef, the addition of tropical fruit salsa reflects the growing interest in fusion cuisine. The use of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce introduces a smoky, mildly spicy flavor that originated in Mexican cuisine, while mango salsa brings a refreshing Caribbean touch. Together, they create a flavor profile that balances heat and sweetness, appealing to adventurous palates.

Regional Variations

Different regions put unique spins on this burger. In the Southern United States, for instance, grilled chicken is often paired with smoky barbecue sauces and pickled vegetables. In tropical areas, such as Hawaii or the Caribbean, fresh fruits like mango, pineapple, or papaya are commonly incorporated into salsas or toppings. The burgers chipotle-mango combination is particularly popular in regions with strong Latin American culinary influences, where the heat of the chili peppers complements the natural sweetness of tropical fruits. Even within the U.S., you can find local twists, such as using avocado or spicy aioli instead of traditional mayonnaise.

What Makes It Different from Other Burgers

Unlike a standard beef burger or classic grilled chicken sandwich, this recipe emphasizes a unique contrast of flavors. The ground chicken patty is spiced with chipotle peppers and lime, which adds both smokiness and acidity. The mango salsa provides a sweet, juicy counterpoint, while gouda cheese adds a creamy, nutty richness. The combination of heat, sweetness, and tang makes this burger distinct from simpler versions that rely solely on ketchup, lettuce, and tomato. Its also lighter in texture than a beef burger yet more flavorful than a plain grilled chicken patty.

Typical Serving Occasions

Spicy chicken burgers with mango salsa are often served in casual dining settings or backyard barbecues. They are popular in summer cookouts and beachside eateries, where light and refreshing flavors complement warm weather. Many modern restaurants include them on gourmet burger menus, highlighting the artisanal aspects like handmade chicken patties and freshly prepared fruit salsas. They can be served with classic sides such as sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a simple garden salad to maintain a balanced and vibrant meal.

Interesting Facts

• The combination of spicy and sweet flavors in burgers mimics traditional Mexican mango con chile snacks, where chili powder and fresh fruit are paired for a unique taste experience.
• Gouda cheese, originally from the Netherlands, is not a typical burger cheese in the U.S., but its mild, slightly sweet flavor complements the mango salsa beautifully.
• Using ground chicken instead of beef makes this burger lower in saturated fat, appealing to health-conscious eaters while still delivering bold flavors.
• Chipotle in adobo is a preserved chili, allowing this recipe to have a consistent smoky heat without requiring fresh chilies, making it accessible year-round.
• This burger represents a perfect example of global fusion cuisine, blending North American, Mexican, and Caribbean influences into a single, balanced dish.

FAQ about Spicy Chicken Burgers With Mango Salsa Recipe