Name: Asian Chicken Burgers
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Ingredients: 1 small carrot, grated; 1 small red onion, halved (Use half for mixing into patties, and the other half for topping.); 1 pound ground chicken; 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup hoisin sauce (Divided into portions for mixing and drizzling.); 1 tablespoon grated peeled ginger; 4 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce (Divided for mixing and topping.); 3 teaspoons hot Asian chile sauce (such as sambal oelek) (Divided into portions.); 8 ounces white mushrooms, thinly sliced; 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil; 1 lime Juice of 1 lime; 4 whole-wheat sesame hamburger buns (Warm in the oven before assembling.)

There’s something truly delightful about the fusion of flavors that Asian chicken burgers bring to the table. Juicy chicken patties infused with ginger and hoisin sauce, topped with a zesty mushroom-onion mixture, make for an enticing meal that will impress anyone who takes a bite. This recipe combines traditional burger elements with a twist, offering a unique experience with every mouthful.

In a world that often sticks to classic beef or turkey burgers, Asian chicken burgers serve as a refreshing alternative. This dish reflects a blend of cultures, combining ingredients commonly found in Asian cuisine with the comforting format of a burger. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, preparing a quick weeknight meal, or taking your taste buds on an adventurous journey, these chicken burgers are a perfect choice.

Why make this recipe

There are several enticing reasons to try your hand at making Asian chicken burgers. For starters, this recipe stands out due to its unique flavors derived from ingredients like hoisin sauce and sesame oil, which deliver an umami punch that’s hard to resist. Additionally, these burgers cater to a wide range of dietary preferences, as they’re lower in fat compared to traditional beef burgers and can be easily adapted for those who are looking to consume less red meat.

Another advantage of this recipe is its versatility. You can easily customize the flavors based on your preferences, adjusting the heat level with more or less hot Asian chile sauce, or experimenting with additional toppings such as avocado or sprouts. Moreover, the incorporation of vegetables like carrots and mushrooms not only enhances the flavor but also adds nutritional value, making this a more wholesome meal option.

Lastly, Asian chicken burgers are incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal prep time and simple steps to achieve a restaurant-quality meal at home. This makes them an ideal choice for busy families or those new to cooking. With just a few ingredients and straightforward directions, anyone can create a delightful dish that feels special and satisfying.

How to make Asian Chicken Burgers

Making Asian chicken burgers is a straightforward process that anyone can master. Begin by preheating your oven and preparing your baking sheet, as this will set the stage for your juicy patties. The key to a flavorful burger lies in the mixing of the ingredients. Grating in fresh vegetables like carrots adds moisture and flavor, while the unique combination of hoisin sauce, soy sauce, and ginger balances sweetness and spice, creating a deliciously moist texture for the chicken.

Once you’ve combined the ingredients and formed the patties, baking them allows for a healthier option compared to frying. The oven helps seal in moisture, producing a tender result while still achieving a slight crispness. Meanwhile, the quick sauté of mushrooms and onions with sesame oil and lime juice creates a fresh and zesty topping that complements the chicken beautifully. As the burgers come together, the aroma wafting through your kitchen will leave everyone eagerly awaiting the meal.

The final step involves assembling your burgers—layering them with your mushroom-onion mixture and drizzling the hoisin-chile sauce adds richness and depth to every bite. Each layer is thoughtfully crafted, ensuring that you experience a burst of flavor from the first bite to the last. With this recipe, you’ll find it easy to impress both family and friends alike.

Ingredients

Cooking spray
1 small carrot, grated
1 small red onion, halved
1 pound ground chicken
1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/4 cup hoisin sauce
1 tablespoon grated peeled ginger
4 teaspoons low-sodium soy sauce
3 teaspoons hot Asian chile sauce (such as sambal oelek)
8 ounces white mushrooms, thinly sliced
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
Juice of 1 lime
4 whole-wheat sesame hamburger buns

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly spray a baking sheet with cooking spray.
In a large bowl, grate in the carrot and half of the onion.
Add the ground chicken, panko, 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce, ginger, 3 teaspoons soy sauce, and 1 teaspoon chile sauce. Mix until combined.
Form the mixture into 4 patties, place on the baking sheet, and bake until cooked through (about 20 minutes).
Thinly slice the remaining half of the onion.
In a bowl, toss the sliced onion with mushrooms, sesame oil, lime juice, and the remaining 1 teaspoon soy sauce.
In another bowl, mix the remaining 2 tablespoons hoisin sauce with 2 teaspoons chile sauce and 1 tablespoon water to make a drizzle sauce.
Warm the hamburger buns in the oven.
Assemble burgers on the buns, drizzle with the hoisin-chile sauce, and top with the mushroom-onion mixture.

Time Breakdown

• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4

How to serve Asian Chicken Burgers

Serving Asian chicken burgers can be as creative or straightforward as you like. For a bright and colorful presentation, consider adding fresh veggies or herbs like cilantro or green onions on top of the burgers. These garnishes not only enhance the visual appeal but also introduce a fresh crunch to balance the texture of the chicken and mushrooms.

For a complete meal, serve the burgers with a side of sweet potato fries or a crisp Asian-style salad dressed with sesame vinaigrette. This complements the rich flavors of the burgers and makes for a well-rounded dining experience. Pair the meal with refreshing beverages like iced green tea or craft beers to add an extra layer of enjoyment.

If you’re looking to make the occasion more inviting, consider setting up a small DIY burger bar. Provide various toppings, like sliced cucumbers, pickled vegetables, and additional sauces. This way, everyone can personalize their burgers, making the meal more interactive and fun.

How to store Asian Chicken Burgers

Storing leftover Asian chicken burgers is quite simple and allows you to enjoy them later. Begin by letting the patties cool completely after cooking. Once they have cooled, transfer them to an airtight container, separating layers with parchment paper to prevent sticking. You can store them in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be mindful not to leave them out at room temperature for extended periods, as bacteria can grow quickly.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing the cooked patties. Wrap each burger individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy your burgers again, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator and reheat them in the oven or microwave.

For the toppings, plan to store them separately. The mushroom-onion mixture can also be kept in a sealed container in the refrigerator for a couple of days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh. Keeping everything separate will maintain the best texture and flavor when you serve them again.

Tips to make Asian Chicken Burgers

To ensure that your Asian chicken burgers turn out perfect, here are some helpful tips. First, don’t overmix the patties; this can lead to dense burgers. Instead, gently combine the ingredients just until everything is mixed. Also, if you find the mixture too wet to form patties, a bit more panko can help achieve the desired consistency.

Seasoning is crucial. Taste the raw mixture by cooking a small bite in the microwave before shaping the patties. This allows you to adjust any flavors before cooking the whole batch. If you prefer your burgers with a bit more heat, feel free to add more of the hot Asian chile sauce or include diced fresh chilies into the mixture.

When baking, it’s important to check the internal temperature of the patties using a meat thermometer, ensuring they reach 165°F (74°C). If you want to maximize flavor, consider grilling the patties instead of baking. This adds a delightful smoky char that complements the Asian flavors beautifully.

Variation

No major variations, but you can adjust seasonings to taste.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 370 kcal
• Protein: 25 g
• Carbohydrates: 30 g
• Fat: 15 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Sodium: 600 mg

FAQs

Q: Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
A: Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken in this recipe, though you might need to adjust the cooking time slightly.

Q: Are there gluten-free options for the breadcrumbs?
A: Absolutely! You can use gluten-free panko breadcrumbs for this recipe to make it gluten-free.

Q: Can I make these burgers in advance?
A: Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you’re ready to cook them.