Jalapeño Chicken Burgers with Zesty Cilantro-Lime Aioli

The weather is warming up and I’m craving long afternoons in the backyard, watching the kids play and grilling up flavorful meals like these Jalapeño Chicken Burgers with Cilantro-Lime Aioli.

Burgers are a go-to for warm-weather cooking. While I’ll always enjoy a classic cheeseburger, these chicken burgers add a bright, spicy twist. Ground chicken can sometimes be dry or bland, but using ground chicken thighs keeps the patties juicy and flavorful. I boosted the taste by folding in finely diced jalapeño, red onion, and red bell pepper, along with cumin and oregano for a little warmth. The result is a juicy, well-seasoned burger that beats any dull chicken patty.

ingredients:

• Ground chicken (preferably thighs)
• Jalapeño pepper, finely diced
• Red onion, finely diced
• Red bell pepper, finely diced
• Ground cumin
• Dried oregano
• Kosher salt
• Freshly ground black pepper
• Large egg
• Avocado oil
• Mayonnaise
• Garlic cloves, minced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime zest
• Freshly squeezed lime juice
• Romaine lettuce leaves
• Avocado, sliced
• Tomato, sliced

step-by-step:

step one: make the ground chicken mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, jalapeño, red onion, bell pepper, cumin, oregano, salt, pepper, and egg. Mix gently with your hands until everything is evenly incorporated, taking care not to overwork the meat.

step two: shape the patties

Scoop about 1/2 cup of the mixture with a measuring cup, roll into a ball, and flatten into a patty. Repeat until all the mixture is formed into patties.

step three: cook the burgers

Heat avocado oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, cook the patties in batches for 4 to 5 minutes per side, until browned and cooked through — an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Transfer cooked patties to a paper towel-lined plate to rest while you finish the rest.

step four: make the aioli

In a food processor or small blender, combine mayonnaise, garlic, cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend just until combined to make a bright, creamy cilantro-lime aioli.

step five: assemble the burgers and serve

To serve, place a cooked patty on a large romaine leaf and top with sliced avocado, tomato, and a generous dollop of the cilantro-lime aioli. These burgers are great wrapped in lettuce or served on a bun if you prefer.

recipe faqs:

This summer, impress your family and guests with these Jalapeño Chicken Burgers topped with a zesty Cilantro-Lime Aioli.

looking for more burger recipes? try these!

Buffalo Chicken Burgers with Gorgonzola Slaw

Greek-Inspired Grilled Lamb Burgers

Herby Pork Burger Stack