Name: Homemade Smash Chicken Burgers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 kilogram chicken (minced or chopped finely); 1 small onion (blended); Salt (to taste); 2 teaspoons mixed peppercorns (black, white, and red, ground together); 1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon chili powder; ¼ teaspoon fenugreek; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 2 tablespoons ketchup; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; ½ teaspoon mustard; A pinch of black pepper; 5 burger buns; 10 cheese slices; Crispy onion rings (for topping); Lettuce (quantity as preferred); Pickled carrots (quantity as preferred); Vegetable oil (for frying)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 3 reviews

If you are craving a juicy, flavorful twist on your usual burger night, this Homemade Smash Chicken Burgers Recipe will quickly become your new favorite. Bursting with an irresistible blend of spices and topped with melty cheese and crispy onion rings, these chicken burgers combine the perfect tenderness with a satisfying crunch. What makes this recipe stand out is the smashing technique that locks in the juiciness while creating a beautiful crust, all using simple, wholesome ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or impressing friends, these burgers bring bold flavors and a comforting homemade touch to the table.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A light green bowl filled with raw minced meat that is pale pink and creamy white in color. The minced meat is sprinkled with a layer of finely ground black and brown spices, which cover most of the meat surface with a textured, slightly grainy look. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting your ingredients right is key to nailing the balance of flavor, texture, and that beautiful presentation that makes these burgers so crave-worthy. Each component works together to ensure every bite is packed with savory goodness and irresistible freshness.

1 kilogram chicken (minced or finely chopped): The star protein, offering juicy texture and a lighter alternative to beef.
5 burger buns: Soft and sturdy buns will hold all the fillings without falling apart.
10 cheese slices: Melts beautifully over the patties adding creamy richness.
Crispy onion rings: Provides a crunchy, flavorful topping that adds contrast.
1 small onion (blended): Adds moisture and subtle sweetness to the patties.
Salt (to taste): Enhances all the other flavors in the burger.
2 teaspoons mixed peppercorns (black, white, red): Offers a layered, nuanced heat and aroma.
1 teaspoon smoked paprika powder: Brings smoky warmth and color.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds subtle savory depth.
½ teaspoon chili powder: Gives a gentle kick without overpowering.
¼ teaspoon fenugreek: A unique note that enriches the flavor profile.
2 teaspoons dried thyme: Earthy herbaceousness for complexity.
2 tablespoons ketchup: Sweet and tangy element in the burger sauce.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Creamy base that balances the spices.
½ teaspoon mustard: Adds a subtle tang for brightness.
A pinch of black pepper: Finishing touch to lift the overall flavor.

How to Make Homemade Smash Chicken Burgers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare and Combine the Spices

Start by mixing all the spices together—black, white, and red peppercorns, smoked paprika, garlic powder, chili powder, fenugreek, and thyme. Use a coffee grinder or spice mill to grind them finely. This step releases the essential oils and intensifies the aroma, making your chicken patties deeply flavorful.

Step 2: Mix Spices with Chicken and Onion

Add the ground spices, blended onion, and salt to your minced chicken. Gently mix just until evenly combined—overmixing can make the patties tough. The blend of spices and onion will infuse every bite, keeping the chicken juicy and aromatic.

Step 3: Form the Patties

Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and portion the mixture into about 10 equal balls. Flatten them slightly, then place on a baking tray lined with baking paper. Chilling the patties for 15 minutes in the fridge or 5 minutes in the freezer helps them hold their shape during cooking.

Step 4: Smash and Cook the Patties

Heat a large pan over medium heat with a splash of vegetable oil. Place a patty on the pan and immediately cover it with a small square of baking paper. Using a wide, round object—like a sturdy spatula or small lid—press down firmly to smash the patty thin. This technique creates a delicious crust while keeping the interior tender. Cook for about 3 minutes.

Step 5: Flip and Add Cheese

When the edges brown and you see some crust, flip the patty over. Lay a slice of cheese on the cooked side and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly. Repeat for all patties, then set them aside to rest.

Step 6: Toast the Buns and Assemble

While the patties cook, toast your burger buns lightly for extra texture and warmth. Spread a layer of homemade burger sauce (a blend of ketchup, mayo, mustard, and black pepper) on the bottom bun, then layer lettuce, two patties, pickled carrots if you have them, and top with crispy onion rings before capping with the other bun half.

How to Serve Homemade Smash Chicken Burgers Recipe

A close-up view of a tall sandwich on a white marbled surface, starting from the bottom with a soft, golden-brown bun spread with a light orange sauce, topped by bright green lettuce leaves. Above the lettuce is a thick, juicy grilled chicken piece covered with melted yellow cheese that drips slightly on the sides. Above this is another grilled chicken layer, also covered with melted cheese. On top of the chicken, there are thin, curly orange carrot ribbons, and the sandwich is finished with two crispy, light golden rings of fried onion placed at the top. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes elevate these burgers to the next level. Crisp lettuce adds crunch and color, while tangy pickled carrots cut through the richness. The crispy onion rings bring a burst of fried goodness and texture contrast, making every bite exciting.

Side Dishes

This Homemade Smash Chicken Burgers Recipe pairs wonderfully with classic fries, sweet potato wedges, or even a refreshing coleslaw. These sides balance the savory patties and add some comforting familiarity to your meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve mini sliders with toothpicks garnished with pickles or cherry tomatoes. Another idea is to offer a burger bar where everyone can customize with toppings like avocado slices, jalapeños, or smoky BBQ sauce, turning your meal into both a feast and a social gathering.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover patties, let them cool completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or storing in an airtight container. They can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and still taste great.

Freezing

These patties freeze beautifully. Freeze them on a baking sheet first to keep their shape, then transfer to freezer bags. They’ll keep for up to a month. This is perfect for quick meals on busy days.

Reheating

Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven until warm throughout. Add a slice of cheese on top while reheating for that melty finish. Avoid microwaving if possible, to maintain the texture and juiciness.

FAQs

Can I use whole chicken meat or just breast for this recipe?

Both chicken breast and thigh meat work well, but a mix of both or just thigh meat tends to be juicier and more flavorful. Using minced chicken is key to the right texture for smashing.

What can I substitute for the fenugreek?

If fenugreek isn’t available, you can omit it or substitute with a pinch of mustard seeds or a bit of dried curry leaves for a unique but complementary flavor.

How do I know when the patties are fully cooked?

Cook each patty for about 5 to 6 minutes total, flipping once, until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F). The patties should be browned outside with no pink in the center.

Can I make the sauce in advance?

Absolutely! The burger sauce is a simple mix of ketchup, mayonnaise, and mustard with black pepper—feel free to prepare it ahead of time and store it refrigerated for up to a week.

Is this recipe suitable for grilling?

Though designed for pan smashing, you can adapt it for grilling by shaping the patties thicker and cooking them directly on the grill, but you won’t get the same delicious crust that smashing creates.

Final Thoughts

This Homemade Smash Chicken Burgers Recipe is a total game-changer for burger lovers looking to enjoy something both comforting and unique. The blend of spices, smashing technique, and crispy toppings work together to deliver outstanding flavor in every bite. Take your kitchen up a notch with this approachable, fun recipe that’s sure to bring smiles and full bellies around your table. You’re going to love sharing it with friends and family!