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Italian Chicken Burgers with Marinara, Pesto, and Mozzarella Recipe

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4.3 from 25 reviews

These Italian Chicken Burgers are juicy and flavorful, featuring ground chicken mixed with Parmesan, Italian seasoning, and fresh herbs. Cooked in a skillet and finished under the broiler with melted mozzarella, then topped with pesto and fresh greens on toasted buns, they make a delicious and gourmet twist on a classic burger.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken Burgers

  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
  • ¼ cup Italian seasoned bread crumbs
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • ¼ cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 green onions, thinly sliced
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 6 tablespoons marinara sauce, plus more for serving
  • 4 slices mozzarella cheese

Burger Assembly

  • 4 hamburger buns
  • 4 tablespoons pesto
  • ½ cup spinach or arugula

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a medium mixing bowl, combine Parmesan cheese, Italian seasoned bread crumbs, Italian seasoning, chopped parsley, minced garlic, sliced green onions, salt, and black pepper. Mix together thoroughly to blend the flavors.
  2. Add Ground Chicken: Add the ground chicken to the mixing bowl and gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly distributed without overworking the meat.
  3. Form Patties and Chill: Shape the mixture into 4 even patties and place them on a plate. Refrigerate the patties for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and improve the texture.
  4. Cook Patties in Skillet: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the olive oil. Place the chicken patties in the skillet and cook for 4 to 6 minutes on each side until fully cooked through and nicely browned.
  5. Top with Marinara and Cheese: Spoon 1 ½ tablespoons of marinara sauce on each patty, then place a slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the sauce.
  6. Broil to Melt Cheese: Preheat your oven’s broiler to high. Transfer the skillet or place patties on a broiler-safe tray and broil for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the mozzarella cheese melts and bubbles. Carefully remove from the oven.
  7. Assemble Burgers: Spread 1 tablespoon of pesto on the top half of each hamburger bun. On the bottom half, layer the spinach or arugula. Place the cooked chicken patty over the greens, add more marinara sauce if desired, and cover with the top bun.
  8. Serve Warm: Serve the Italian chicken burgers immediately while warm, enjoying the melty cheese and fresh herb flavors.

Notes

  • Refrigerating the patties before cooking helps the flavors meld and prevents them from falling apart while cooking.
  • Using a broiler to melt the cheese adds a quick, flavorful finishing touch without overcooking the burgers.
  • You can substitute arugula with spinach or any fresh leafy green you prefer for a peppery or mild bite.
  • For a crispier crust on the patties, avoid moving them too much while cooking in the skillet.
  • If desired, serve with extra marinara sauce or your favorite Italian condiments.
  • Author: Adeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian

Find it online: https://flavorhug.com/italian-chicken-burgers-with-marinara-pesto-and-mozzarella-recipe/