Grilled Zucchini Chicken Burgers with Creamy Feta Spread Recipe
These Grilled Zucchini Chicken Burgers offer a healthy and flavorful twist on the classic burger by incorporating grated zucchini and parmesan into ground chicken patties. Served on toasted brioche buns with a creamy, tangy feta spread and fresh baby arugula or microgreens, this recipe delivers a juicy, savory burger perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Ingredients
Burgers
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup grated zucchini
- ½ cup seasoned breadcrumbs
- ⅓ cup finely grated parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 brioche buns, toasted for serving
- Baby arugula or microgreens, for topping
Creamy Feta Spread
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt or sour cream
- 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 garlic cloves
- ½ lemon, juiced
- Kosher salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with grated zucchini, seasoned breadcrumbs, parmesan cheese, chopped parsley, garlic powder, and a generous pinch of kosher salt and black pepper. Mix gently until just combined to avoid overworking the meat. Shape the mixture into four equal-sized burger patties. Place the patties in the refrigerator to chill for 30 minutes to help them firm up, then remove and let rest at room temperature for 5 minutes before grilling.
- Preheat and Grill: Preheat your grill to high heat to ensure a nice sear. Once the grill is hot, place the chicken burgers on the grill grates. Cook the patties for 5 to 6 minutes on one side without moving them to develop grill marks and seal in juices. Flip the burgers carefully and continue grilling for another 5 to 6 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), ensuring the chicken is fully cooked. Remove burgers from the grill and let them rest briefly.
- Make the Creamy Feta Spread: In a blender or food processor, combine mayonnaise, Greek yogurt or sour cream, crumbled feta cheese, garlic cloves, lemon juice, and a pinch of kosher salt and pepper. Blend until the mixture is smooth, creamy, and easily spreadable. This spread can be refrigerated for 3 to 4 days if made in advance.
- Assemble the Burgers: Spread a generous amount of the creamy feta mixture on the bottom halves of the toasted brioche buns. Add the grilled chicken zucchini patties, then top with baby arugula or microgreens for a fresh peppery crunch. Cap with the remaining bun halves.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve the burgers immediately while warm with your favorite sides or a crisp salad for a balanced meal. Enjoy the combination of juicy chicken, fresh zucchini, and tangy feta spread in every bite.
Notes
- Grate the zucchini and gently squeeze out excess moisture to prevent soggy burgers.
- Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken patties reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
- Letting burgers rest after grilling helps retain juiciness.
- The creamy feta spread can be made ahead and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Use seasoned breadcrumbs or add your own seasoning to breadcrumbs for extra flavor.