Chipotle Chicken Burgers Recipe

Cook Time: 15 minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

Chipotle Mayo:

• 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon adobo sauce from chipotle peppers
• 1 teaspoon lime juice
• 1/8 teaspoon salt

Burgers:

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 1/2 cup crumbled queso fresco
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 tablespoon butter, melted
• 4 hamburger buns
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup coarsely chopped cilantro
• 4 slices pepper Jack cheese
• 1/2 cup prepared pico de gallo

Directions

1. In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce, lime juice, and 1/8 teaspoon salt. Set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the ground chicken, minced chipotle peppers, crumbled queso fresco, salt, and ground coriander. Mix well.
3. Form the mixture into 4 patties and place them on squares of parchment paper. Refrigerate for 10 minutes to help the patties firm up.
4. Preheat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Brush the skillet with melted butter and toast the buns, cut side down, for 1 to 2 minutes until lightly browned. Set aside.
5. In the same skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Fry the burgers until the chicken is no longer pink at the center and the juices run clear. This should take about 3 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches at least 165F (74C).
6. Turn off the heat. Place a slice of pepper Jack cheese over each patty and cover the skillet with a lid to allow the residual heat to melt the cheese.
7. Spread the chipotle mayo on the bottom halves of the toasted buns and sprinkle with 1 tablespoon of chopped cilantro.
8. Place a chicken patty on top and add a spoonful of pico de gallo. Top with the other half of the bun.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	695
Total Fat	44g	56%
Saturated Fat	15g	77%
Cholesterol	170mg	57%
Sodium	1502mg	65%
Total Carbohydrate	34g	12%
Dietary Fiber	3g	9%
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	43g	85%
Vitamin C	8mg	9%
Calcium	426mg	33%
Iron	4mg	22%
Potassium	1027mg	22%

The Story Behind Chipotle Chicken Burgers

The chipotle chicken burger is a modern twist on the classic American burger, merging smoky Mexican flavors with the universally beloved grilled patty. Chipotle peppers, smoked and dried jalapeos, have long been used in Mexican cuisine for their deep, smoky heat. In the early 2000s, American chefs began experimenting with chipotle in burgers, bringing together the smoky spice of adobo sauce and tender chicken patties for a unique flavor profile. This fusion quickly gained popularity as people sought alternatives to traditional beef burgers while retaining bold, savory notes.

Regional Variations and Local Influences

While originating in the United States, chipotle chicken burgers reflect regional culinary influences. In the Southwest, they are often paired with fresh pico de gallo, avocado slices, and cilantro, highlighting local Mexican-American ingredients. Coastal regions sometimes incorporate citrus marinades or tropical salsas to complement the smoky chipotle flavor. Each region adapts the recipe to local tastes, making the burger spicier, tangier, or even sweeter depending on available produce and culinary trends.

Distinguishing Features Compared to Similar Dishes

Unlike traditional chicken burgers, which may rely on simple seasonings, chipotle chicken burgers are characterized by their smoky, slightly spicy flavor from chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. The addition of queso fresco or pepper jack cheese adds a creamy contrast, while pico de gallo provides a fresh, acidic bite. Compared to beef or pork burgers, this variation is lighter yet packed with layered flavors, combining the heat of chili, creaminess of cheese, and freshness of herbs in every bite.

Typical Serving Contexts

Chipotle chicken burgers are commonly served in casual dining restaurants, backyard barbecues, and food trucks. They are popular at summer cookouts and street food festivals, often accompanied by tortilla chips, fresh salsas, or lightly seasoned fries. Some gourmet burger joints elevate the dish with artisanal buns, homemade sauces, or pickled vegetables, turning a humble burger into a culinary highlight.

Interesting Facts and Cultural Notes

Chipotle peppers were historically used by indigenous peoples of Mexico as both a flavoring and a preservative. Their smoky aroma comes from drying the peppers over wood smoke, a technique that enhances the depth of flavor. Interestingly, the burgers combination of chicken and chipotle mirrors traditional Mexican flavor layering, where heat, smokiness, and acidity are balanced to create complex tastes. Another fun fact: some chefs recommend using ground chicken with a small percentage of dark meat to prevent the patties from drying out, highlighting the careful attention needed for texture as well as flavor.

FAQ about Chipotle Chicken Burgers Recipe

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