Description
Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers deliver smoky, juicy, and tender chicken patties with crispy edges. This easy and quick recipe combines lean ground chicken with fragrant smoked paprika and simple seasonings, perfect for a flavorful, healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers. Customizable toppings and variations make it ideal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb fresh, lean ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or cooking spray
- 4 soft, fresh burger buns
Optional Toppings
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Your favorite cheese (e.g., cheddar, pepper jack)
- Sliced avocado or guacamole
Optional Variations
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper or chili flakes (for spicy kick)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, or thyme)
- Gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps (for gluten-free option)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken mixture: In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until evenly blended, taking care not to overwork the meat to keep it tender.
- Heat your cooking surface: Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium-high heat. Lightly grease with olive oil or cooking spray to prevent sticking and help form a crispy crust on the patties.
- Form and smash the patties: Divide the chicken mixture into equal portions and place each ball onto the hot skillet. Using a spatula or heavy-bottomed plate, press down firmly to flatten into thin patties about ¼ inch thick. This technique creates crispy edges and locks in juicy flavor.
- Cook the patties: Let the patties cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the first side is golden brown and crispy. Flip carefully and cook an additional 3 minutes, or until fully cooked through with no pink inside (internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C).
- Assemble your burgers: Lightly toast the buns if desired. Layer the patties with your preferred toppings such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese, or avocado. Serve immediately while hot and juicy.
Notes
- Use lean ground chicken for the best texture and less grease.
- Press patties thinly when smashing to achieve crispy edges and juicy centers.
- Ensure your skillet or griddle is hot before cooking to prevent sticking and get a good sear.
- Season generously with smoked paprika and garlic powder for bold flavor.
- Allow the patties to rest for 2 minutes after cooking to help retain juices.
- Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator up to 3 days; keep buns separate.
- Freeze cooked patties individually on a baking sheet before transferring to freezer bags for up to 2 months.
- Reheat in skillet or oven to maintain crispy edges; avoid microwaving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with bun
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 520 mg
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 25 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
Keywords: smoked paprika chicken burgers, chicken smash burgers, smoky chicken burgers, quick chicken burgers, healthy chicken burgers, gluten free chicken burgers