Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread
Spice up dinner with Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread, a mouthwatering recipe that combines juicy, spicy chicken patties with a creamy, tangy feta topping for an unforgettable flavor experience. This dish perfectly balances heat and refreshment, creating bold flavors and creamy goodness in every bite that’s sure to satisfy your craving for something both comforting and exciting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold Flavor Explosion: The spicy buffalo seasoning paired with creamy whipped feta makes every bite lively and memorable.
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights that need a flavor upgrade.
- Healthy Ingredients: Made with lean ground chicken and fresh toppings, it’s a tasty way to enjoy a protein-packed meal.
- Versatile Meal: Great for casual dinners, game day gatherings, or even meal prepping.
- Unique Topping: The whipped feta spread adds a rich, tangy twist that sets this burger apart.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for simple yet essential ingredients that each contribute to the perfect balance of spice, creaminess, and freshness. From the lean chicken to the bright buffalo sauce and tangy feta, every element plays a crucial role in the flavor and texture.
- Ground Chicken: A lean, mild base that soaks up all the bold seasonings beautifully.
- Buffalo Sauce: Adds that signature spicy tang that brings the burger to life.
- Feta Cheese: Crumbled and whipped into a creamy spread for a contrasting coolness.
- Greek Yogurt: Helps create the light and fluffy texture of the whipped feta spread.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Enhances umami notes in the chicken patties for deeper flavor.
- Garlic Powder and Paprika: Adds warmth and smoky depth to the seasoning mix.
- Buns of Choice: Whether brioche, whole wheat, or classic hamburger buns, they provide a soft, sturdy vessel for your burger.
- Celery: Finely chopped for added crunch and freshness, both in the burger or as a side.
- Butter or Oil: For cooking the patties to golden perfection.
Variations for Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread
Feel free to customize this recipe to fit your taste or dietary needs. The adaptable nature of Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread makes it a perfect platform for delicious experimentation.
- Spice Level Adjustment: Add more or less buffalo sauce or some fresh jalapeños to dial up or tone down the heat.
- Cheese Alternatives: Swap feta for goat cheese or cream cheese for different creamy textures and flavors.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps to enjoy the same great flavor without the gluten.
- Extra Veggies: Incorporate sliced cucumber, red onion, or avocado for added freshness and texture.
- Make it Vegan: Try using a plant-based ground “chicken” substitute and vegan feta alternatives with buffalo sauce.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken with buffalo sauce, garlic powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and finely chopped celery. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough patties. Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties for consistent cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add a bit of butter or oil. Cook the chicken patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown on the outside. Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep them juicy.
Step 3: Make the Whipped Feta Spread
While the patties cook, blend crumbled feta cheese with Greek yogurt in a food processor or blender until smooth and fluffy. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of black pepper or a few drops of lemon juice for extra brightness.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
Toast the buns lightly to add texture. Spread a generous layer of whipped feta on the bottom bun, place the warm chicken patty on top, then add any desired fresh toppings such as lettuce, sliced celery, or tomatoes. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.
Pro Tips for Making Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread
- Don’t Overmix: Handle the chicken mixture gently to keep patties tender and juicy.
- Control the Heat: Taste the buffalo sauce beforehand to gauge spiciness and adjust accordingly.
- Toast Your Buns: Adds a pleasant crunch and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
- Use Fresh Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness that balances the spicy chicken.
- Make Whipped Feta Ahead: Prepare the spread a few hours in advance to let flavors meld perfectly.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread
Garnishes
Top your burgers with crunchy celery sticks, thinly sliced red onions, or a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley to brighten the rich flavors and add vibrant color.
Side Dishes
These burgers pair beautifully with classic sides like crispy baked sweet potato fries, tangy coleslaw, or a refreshing cucumber salad to complement the spice and creamy feta.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve as slider-sized mini burgers for parties or arrange the patties over a bed of mixed greens drizzled with extra buffalo sauce for a lighter salad version packed with flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store the whipped feta spread in a separate covered container to preserve its texture and flavor.
Freezing
Freeze uncooked chicken patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Thaw completely before cooking for best results. The whipped feta spread is best made fresh and not frozen.
Reheating
Reheat cooked patties in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through to maintain juiciness. Warm buns separately to avoid sogginess, and add freshly whipped feta before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and provides a similar lean texture that absorbs the buffalo flavors well while keeping the burgers juicy.
Is the whipped feta spread difficult to make?
Not at all! It only takes a few minutes in a blender or food processor to create a smooth, creamy spread that perfectly balances the spicy chicken.
How spicy are these Buffalo Chicken Burgers?
The spice level depends on the buffalo sauce used; you can control it by choosing a mild, medium, or hot sauce or adjusting the amount added.
What sides pair best with these burgers?
Crispy fries, fresh salads, and crunchy vegetables like celery sticks work perfectly to balance the bold flavors and add variety to the meal.
Can I prepare these burgers for meal prep?
Absolutely! The patties can be cooked ahead and stored in the fridge, and the whipped feta can be made fresh or in advance for a quick and easy meal throughout the week.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something with a kick and a creamy twist, Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread are an absolute game-changer. This recipe brings together the best of spicy and tangy flavors in a juicy, satisfying burger that feels like a special treat any night of the week. Give it a try—you’ll want to make it a new dinner favorite!
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PrintBuffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread
Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Whipped Feta Spread combine juicy, spicy chicken patties with a creamy, tangy feta topping, creating a bold and unforgettable flavor experience. Perfectly balancing heat and refreshment, this quick and easy recipe is a protein-packed, versatile meal ideal for casual dinners, game day gatherings, or meal prepping.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Skillet Cooking
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 cup finely chopped celery
- Butter or oil for cooking (about 1-2 tbsp)
- 4 buns of choice (brioche, whole wheat, classic hamburger buns, gluten-free buns, or lettuce wraps)
Whipped Feta Spread
- 4 oz crumbled feta cheese
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- Optional: pinch of black pepper
- Optional: a few drops of lemon juice
Optional Fresh Toppings
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced celery
- Sliced tomatoes
- Thinly sliced red onions
- Chopped fresh parsley
- Sliced cucumber
- Avocado slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken with buffalo sauce, garlic powder, paprika, Worcestershire sauce, and finely chopped celery. Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough patties. Shape the mixture into evenly sized patties for consistent cooking.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet or grill pan over medium heat and add butter or oil. Cook the chicken patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F and are golden brown on the outside. Avoid pressing down on the patties to keep them juicy.
- Make the Whipped Feta Spread: While the patties cook, blend crumbled feta cheese with Greek yogurt in a food processor or blender until smooth and fluffy. Adjust seasoning with a pinch of black pepper or a few drops of lemon juice for extra brightness.
- Assemble the Burgers: Toast the buns lightly to add texture. Spread a generous layer of whipped feta on the bottom bun, place the warm chicken patty on top, then add any desired fresh toppings such as lettuce, sliced celery, or tomatoes. Finish with the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
- Don’t Overmix: Handle the chicken mixture gently to keep patties tender and juicy.
- Control the Heat: Taste the buffalo sauce beforehand to gauge spiciness and adjust accordingly.
- Toast Your Buns: Adds a pleasant crunch and prevents sogginess from the sauce.
- Use Fresh Celery: Adds a subtle crunch and freshness that balances the spicy chicken.
- Make Whipped Feta Ahead: Prepare the spread a few hours in advance to let flavors meld perfectly.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (with bun and spread)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 2 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 28 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
Keywords: Buffalo chicken burger, whipped feta spread, spicy chicken burger, healthy chicken burger, quick dinner, game day recipe, protein-packed meal, gluten free burger
