These healthy chicken burgers are so tasty and light! Made with juicy chicken and topped with a refreshing corn and zucchini relish, they bring a burst of flavor to your meal.
Serving them with a side of sweet potato fries makes dinner fun! I love how easy they are to grill up—perfect for those sunny days when you want something fresh and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken breast is lean and great for health-conscious recipes. If you can’t find it, ground turkey works well too, keeping the dish light but flavorful.
Fresh Corn: Sweet fresh corn adds a delightful crunch. If it’s out of season, you can use frozen corn. Just make sure it’s thawed and drained before mixing.
Zucchini: Zucchini keeps the burgers moist. If you need a substitute, try finely grated carrots or yellow squash for similar texture.
Whole Wheat Breadcrumbs: These help bind the mixture. For a gluten-free option, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used instead. They’ll maintain moisture while making the burgers healthier.
How Do I Get the Perfect Texture for Chicken Burgers?
Achieving a juicy texture in chicken burgers relies on the right balance of ingredients and careful cooking. Follow these tips for the best results:
- Mix all ingredients gently; overmixing can make burgers tough.
- Moisture is key, so don’t skip the egg or veggies like zucchini and corn—they keep the burgers juicy.
- Use medium heat when cooking. High heat can brown the outside before the inside is fully cooked.
- Getting the internal temperature to 165°F ensures they’re safely cooked without drying out. A meat thermometer is helpful!
Healthy Chicken Burgers with Fresh Corn and Zucchini Relish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb (450g) ground chicken breast
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
- 1 small zucchini, finely diced or grated
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/3 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
For the Fresh Corn and Zucchini Relish:
- 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (about 1 ear)
- 1/2 cup zucchini, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 small shallot or 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 tbsp lemon juice or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 tsp honey or maple syrup for slight sweetness
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and 15 minutes for cooking, totaling approximately 30 minutes. Perfect if you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Relish:
In a mixing bowl, toss together the fresh corn kernels, diced zucchini, chopped red bell pepper, shallot (or red onion), and your choice of herbs. Drizzle in the lemon juice or apple cider vinegar, and season with salt and pepper. If you prefer a hint of sweetness, stir in honey or maple syrup. Mix everything together well and then pop it in the fridge to let the flavors combine while you work on the burgers.
2. Make the Chicken Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, mix together the ground chicken, fresh corn, diced zucchini, red bell pepper, green onions, minced garlic, parsley, whole wheat breadcrumbs, beaten egg, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir gently until all the ingredients are blended together, but don’t overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
3. Form the Patties:
Using your hands, divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions and shape them into thick patties, about 3/4 inch in width. Place each patty on a plate lined with parchment paper to make moving them to the pan easier.
4. Cook the Burgers:
In a large non-stick skillet or grill pan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, carefully add the patties. Cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Make sure to avoid moving them around too much; let them sear nicely!
5. Serve:
Once the burgers are cooked through, serve them hot! Top with a generous spoonful of the fresh corn and zucchini relish. You can choose to place them in whole grain buns or enjoy them in lettuce wraps for a lighter meal. Enjoy your healthy, flavorful chicken burgers!
FAQ for Healthy Chicken Burgers with Fresh Corn and Zucchini Relish
Can I Use Lean Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and offers a similar texture and flavor. Just ensure it’s also lean to keep the recipe healthy!
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Burgers?
Leftover chicken burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Burger Patties?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet until frozen, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before cooking.
What Can I Serve with These Chicken Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with sweet potato fries, a side salad, or grilled vegetables. You can also serve them in whole grain buns or lettuce wraps for a healthy twist!
