Ingredients
Burger Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 3/4 tsp kosher salt
- 2 tbsp taco seasoning
- 1 medium jalapeno, minced (divided)
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese (divided)
Avocado Topping
- 1 large avocado
- Juice of half a lime
Additional Toppings and Buns
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 cup crushed tortilla chips
- 4 whole-wheat buns
Instructions
- Prepare the Patties: In a medium bowl, combine ground chicken, 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, taco seasoning, and half of the minced jalapeno. Gently mix with your hands or a fork without overworking the meat to keep the patties tender. Shape the mixture into four even patties.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat a large cast iron skillet over medium heat and add 2 teaspoons of olive oil. When hot, place the chicken patties in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden brown and seared. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 2 minutes. Sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese evenly over each patty. Add 1 tablespoon of water to the skillet and immediately cover with a lid to steam the cheese, melting it in about 1-2 minutes.
- Make the Avocado Topping: While the patties cook, combine the avocado, juice of half a lime, and the remaining minced jalapeno in a small bowl. Mash the mixture together until creamy and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Burgers: Once the cheese has melted and patties are cooked through, transfer each burger to the bottom half of a whole-wheat bun. Top with a generous portion of the smashed avocado mixture, then spoon over salsa. Sprinkle crushed tortilla chips on top for added crunch. Finish by placing the top buns on each burger. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
- Be careful not to overmix the chicken mixture to maintain tenderness.
- If you prefer less spice, reduce or omit the jalapeno.
- Use a lid when melting the cheese to ensure it melts evenly and quickly.
- Whole-wheat buns add a healthier twist and extra fiber.
- These burgers can also be cooked on a grill or in an oven if a cast iron skillet is not available.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Low Fat