If you’re craving a burger that packs a punch and will have your taste buds dancing with delight, the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger is your go-to recipe. Combining the smoky warmth of chipotle peppers with juicy ground chicken, this burger strikes the perfect balance between bold flavors and comforting satisfaction. Each bite offers a unique blend of spice, tang, and a touch of creamy coolness that makes it absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout or cooking indoors, this burger brings excitement and ease to your mealtime.

Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger lies in a handful of thoughtful, straightforward ingredients that come together beautifully. Every item is essential, enhancing the flavor, texture, or color to create a burger experience that’s fresh, smoky, and packed with a little heat.

1 lb ground chicken: A lean and tender base for juicy, flavorful patties.
2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped: Adds smoky heat that defines the burger’s bold character.
2 tablespoons adobo sauce: This rich sauce intensifies the smoky, spicy notes of the chipotle.
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Boosts the smoky undertone for depth and warmth.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin: Brings a subtle earthiness that complements the spices perfectly.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides savory background flavor without overpowering.
1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and aromatic complexity.
1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all flavors and keeps the patties juicy.
1/4 teaspoon black pepper: For a mild kick of heat.
1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens the blend with fresh citrusy zing.
1/4 cup breadcrumbs or panko: Helps hold the patties together and adds texture—panko delivers extra crunch.
1 egg: Acts as a binder keeping the ingredients perfectly combined.
1/2 cup mayonnaise: Forms the creamy, spicy chipotle sauce that complements the patty beautifully.
1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped (for mayo): Infuses the sauce with a smoky spice kick.
1 tablespoon lime juice (for mayo): Adds brightness to the chipotle mayo.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder (for mayo): Boosts garlic flavor in the sauce.
Salt to taste (for mayo): Balances the sauce’s flavors.
4 burger buns, toasted: The perfect vehicle for your flavorful creation.
4 slices pepper jack cheese (optional): Adds melty heat for those who love an extra spicy kick.
Lettuce leaves: Provides a fresh, crisp contrast.
Sliced tomatoes: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
Sliced red onions: Offers sharpness and crunch.
Pickled jalapeños (optional): For added spice and tangy flavor.

How to Make Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Patty Mixture

Start by combining the ground chicken with finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mixing these ingredients thoroughly ensures each patty bursts with smoky, spicy flavor and holds together well without falling apart.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four even portions, then gently shape each into a patty about the size of your buns. Be careful not to compact the mixture too tightly; you want tender and juicy patties, not dense ones. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent puffing while cooking.

Step 3: Cook the Patties

For that perfect charred flavor, grill the patties over medium-high heat for about 5 minutes per side. You’re looking for a golden exterior and a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). If grilling isn’t an option, a skillet works just as well; cook over medium heat with a little oil, flipping once until the patties are cooked through and nicely browned.

Step 4: Prepare the Spicy Chipotle Mayo

Whisk together mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. This creamy sauce adds an irresistible layer of heat and tang, pairing perfectly with the smoky patties. Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper to suit your desired spice level.

Step 5: Toast the Buns and Assemble

Lightly toast the burger buns to add texture and prevent sogginess. Spread a generous amount of your spicy chipotle mayo on each bun, then layer lettuce, the cooked chicken patty, optional pepper jack cheese, sliced tomatoes, onions, and pickled jalapeños if using. Crown with the top half of the bun and get ready to indulge.

How to Serve Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger

Garnishes

The right garnishes elevate the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger to true flavor perfection. Crisp lettuce leaves add freshness and crunch, ripe tomato slices introduce juiciness and sweetness, while thinly sliced red onions contribute a zesty bite. For the adventurous, pickled jalapeños amplify the heat and introduce a tangy contrast that pairs beautifully with the smoky chipotle flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair this burger with some classic fries or onion rings for a familiar favorite. If you want to keep things lighter, a fresh corn salad or a vibrant coleslaw with a hint of lime complements the burger’s smoky spice beautifully. For a Mexican-inspired twist, seasoned black beans or grilled corn on the cob with chili-lime butter are fantastic companions.

Creative Ways to Present

To impress guests or shake things up, serve your Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger on a wooden board with dipping bowls of extra chipotle mayo and pickled jalapeños on the side. You can also turn this into a delicious lettuce wrap for a low-carb option or serve sliders for a fun party appetizer. Wrapping the burger in parchment paper gives a casual, rustic feel that invites eager biting and finger licking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any leftovers, you can store cooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the spicy chipotle mayo separate for the best freshness. When ready to eat, simply reassemble your burger to enjoy the best texture and flavor experience.

Freezing

To stash away Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger patties for busy days, wrap each uncooked patty individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to cook, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and prepare as usual.

Reheating

Reheat cooked patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible as it can cause the patties to dry out. Toast fresh buns and add a dollop of spicy chipotle mayo to revive the flavor for leftover burgers.

FAQs

What makes this a Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger?

This burger earns its name from the use of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce both in the patty mixture and the creamy mayo, giving it a smoky, medium-spicy heat that defines the overall flavor profile.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still deliver a juicy, flavorful burger. Just be sure to monitor cooking time as turkey can sometimes dry out more quickly.

How can I adjust the spice level?

You can control the heat by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers or jalapeños. If you prefer less spice, reduce the chipotle peppers and omit the pickled jalapeños, or serve those on the side so everyone can add according to their taste.

Is it necessary to use breadcrumbs?

Breadcrumbs or panko help the patties hold together and add texture. If you’re avoiding gluten, try crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as an alternative binder.

What cheese pairs best with the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger?

Pepper jack is a top choice because its mild heat matches the chipotle flavor perfectly, but you can also try cheddar or Monterey Jack for a creamy, complementary addition.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about the Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger that makes it a standout in any meal rotation. It’s full of personality, easy to prepare, and packed with flavors that excite without overwhelming. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and make it your own, whether for a family dinner or your next barbecue get-together. This burger isn’t just food—it’s a delicious adventure you’ll want to share again and again.

Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 11 reviews

Author: Ella
Total Time: 27 minutes
Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Diet: Halal

Print Recipe

Description

This Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger combines tender ground chicken with smoky chipotle peppers and a blend of spices to create a flavorful and juicy patty. Paired with a creamy chipotle mayo and fresh toppings, this burger offers a perfect balance of heat, zest, and texture that’s perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend cookout.

Instructions

Prepare the patties: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, finely chopped chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, smoked paprika, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lime juice, breadcrumbs, and egg. Mix gently but thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid over-mixing to keep the patties tender.
Shape the patties: Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round, evenly thick patty about 3/4 inch thick to ensure even cooking.
Make the chipotle mayo: In a small bowl, mix together mayonnaise, finely chopped chipotle pepper, lime juice, garlic powder, and salt. Adjust seasoning to your preference. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Cook the patties: Choose your preferred method—grilling or stovetop. For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat and oil the grates lightly. Grill the patties for approximately 5 minutes per side, flipping once, until an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) is reached. For stovetop, heat a large skillet over medium heat with a drizzle of oil and cook patties for 5-6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Add cheese (optional): If using pepper jack cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt slightly.
Assemble the burgers: Toast the burger buns lightly for added texture and flavor. Spread a generous amount of chipotle mayo on the bottom bun. Add lettuce leaves, the cooked chicken patty with melted cheese, sliced tomatoes, red onions, and pickled jalapeños if desired. Top with the bun crown and serve immediately for best taste.

Notes

For extra crunch, use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers for your preferred spice level.
Ensure the internal temperature of the patties reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
You can prepare the chipotle mayo in advance and refrigerate to enhance flavor.
Substitute ground turkey for a leaner alternative if preferred.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling or Pan-frying
Cuisine: American