Healthy Chicken & Broccoli Burgers
Healthy Chicken & Broccoli Burgers combine lean ground chicken with nutrient-rich broccoli to create a protein-packed, vitamin-rich meal. These burgers are quick and easy to make, versatile in flavor, and perfect for meal prep. They offer a healthy comfort food option that satisfies burger cravings guilt-free.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes (pan-frying) or 20-25 minutes (baking)
- Total Time: 27-40 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 burgers 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-frying or Baking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup broccoli florets (steamed and finely chopped)
- 1 large egg
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs/almond flour for gluten-free option)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking
Optional Variations and Toppings
- Red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños (for spice)
- Fresh basil, oregano, or parsley (for Italian or herb flavors)
- Shredded mozzarella or feta cheese (for cheesy patties)
- Whole-grain buns, lettuce wraps, avocado slices, tomato, pickles (for serving)
- Prep the Broccoli: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until just tender. Then finely chop or pulse in a food processor until smooth to blend well with the chicken.
- Mix the Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, finely chopped broccoli, egg, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped onion, Parmesan cheese if using, and season with salt and pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing to prevent tough burgers.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 evenly sized patties depending on your preferred portion size. This ensures even cooking and helps with plating.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Assemble and Serve: Place the cooked burgers on whole-grain buns or lettuce wraps. Add your favorite toppings such as sliced avocado, lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Don’t overmix the ingredients to keep burgers tender.
- Chop broccoli finely to ensure even cooking and prevent large chunks.
- Use a meat thermometer to confirm patties are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Let burgers rest a couple of minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.
- Customize flavors with your preferred herbs, spices, and toppings.
- Leftover cooked burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze uncooked patties separated by parchment paper in a ziplock bag for up to 3 months and thaw overnight before cooking.
- Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over low heat or microwave in short intervals to retain moisture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 220 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 280 mg
- Fat: 10 g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 25 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: healthy chicken burger, broccoli burger, chicken broccoli patties, gluten-free chicken burger, healthy comfort food