Name: Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken; 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons adobo sauce; ½ teaspoon smoked paprika; ½ teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; 1 tablespoon lime juice; ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or panko); 1 egg; ½ cup mayonnaise; 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon lime juice (for mayo); ½ teaspoon garlic powder (for mayo); Salt, to taste (for mayo); 4 burger buns, toasted; 4 slices pepper jack cheese (optional); Lettuce leaves; Sliced tomatoes; Sliced red onions; Pickled jalapeños (optional)

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I created a Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger that’s bold, smoky, spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Juicy chicken patties are packed with chipotle peppers, cooked to perfection, and served on a toasted bun with a creamy chipotle mayo and all the right toppings.

Why I’ll Love This Recipe

The smoky heat from the chipotle peppers adds serious flavor that I crave.
Ground chicken keeps it light, but still rich and juicy.
I can whip it up in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy days.
It’s super customizable based on how spicy or creamy I want it.
That chipotle mayo? It’s the perfect finishing touch.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken Patties

• 1 lb ground chicken
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons adobo sauce
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• ½ teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ¼ cup breadcrumbs (or panko)
• 1 egg

For the Chipotle Mayo

• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt, to taste

For Assembling

• 4 burger buns, toasted
• 4 slices pepper jack cheese (optional)
• Lettuce leaves
• Sliced tomatoes
• Sliced red onions
• Pickled jalapeños (optional)

Directions

Mix the Patties
I combine ground chicken, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, spices, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and the egg in a large bowl. I mix until just combined to avoid tough patties.
Shape the Patties
I divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties. I press a small indentation in the center so they cook evenly.
Cook the Patties
- On the grill: I preheat to medium-high, oil the grates, and cook for about 5 minutes per side.
- On the stovetop: I heat oil in a skillet and cook for 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through.
  I add cheese during the last minute of cooking if I want it melted.
Make the Chipotle Mayo
I stir together mayo, chopped chipotle, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. I taste and adjust the flavor as needed.
Assemble the Burgers
I spread chipotle mayo on the toasted buns, layer lettuce, tomato, a chicken patty, red onions, and jalapeños. Then I top it off with the other bun.
Serve
I serve these hot with fries, slaw, or a simple green salad.

Servings and timing

Servings: 4 burgers
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

I tone down the spice by using just one chipotle pepper, or dial it up by adding extra.
For added crunch, I use panko instead of regular breadcrumbs.
I sometimes swap in cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese.
For a twist, I add avocado slices or a fried egg on top.
Baking works too—I bake at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway.

Storage / Reheating

I store leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
To reheat, I use the oven or a skillet to warm them evenly without drying them out. Microwaving works in a pinch, but I find it less ideal.

FAQs

How do I keep the patties juicy?

I make sure not to overmix the meat and cook just until they reach 165°F. The egg and breadcrumbs help retain moisture too.

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?

Yes. I shape the patties and store them in the fridge for a few hours or freeze them with parchment between layers.

What can I substitute for ground chicken?

Ground turkey works well, and I sometimes use a mix of white and dark chicken meat for extra flavor.

Is there a lighter sauce option than chipotle mayo?

I’ve swapped mayo for Greek yogurt or mashed avocado when I want something lighter but still creamy.

Can I bake these burgers instead?

Yes. I bake them at 400°F for 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they’re fully cooked.

Conclusion

This Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger brings the heat and flavor I love in every bite. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a weekend cookout, this recipe delivers big taste without the fuss.

Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Why I’ll Love This Recipe