Cheddar Jalapeno Chicken Burgers

Have you noticed that food blogs everywhere have gone fall crazy?

I started a fall Pinterest board and right now, those pins are the ones getting the most repinning action. I know, we are all looking forward to the changing seasons and ALL THINGS PUMPKIN but hold off just until you get a chance to make these burgers.

Chicken burgers (and turkey burgers, for that matter) can often be really bland and dry. Unlike ground beef, they need a lot of flavor and moisture added in order to taste really good. But when you find that perfect balance of moisture and flavor, I would argue that a chicken burger trumps a beef one.

Don't believe me? Try these. Really. They are lean, full of flavor, and delicious!

We liked these best with a thick slather of guacamole and a drizzle of creamy jalapeno ranch (the Chuy's copycat I recently posted!). Yum! 

Cheddar Jalapeno Chicken Burgers

For the burgers:

1.5 pounds ground chicken

1/4 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

1 jalapeno, seeds and ribs removed, chopped

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon paprika

1 tablespoon lime juice

1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon fresh ground pepper

cooking spray

For serving:

Burger buns

Your choice of toppings: Guacamole, sour cream, ranch dressing (this creamy jalapeno dip was AMAZING on it), extra cheese, extra cilantro, salsa, etc. 

Heat the grill to medium-high heat and spray lightly with cooking spray to prevent sticking.

In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, cilantro, garlic, jalapeno, cumin, paprika, lime juice, cheddar, salt, and pepper. Mix together until well blended. Shape into four 1/2 inch thick patties.

Grill patties 5-6 minutes per side. Allow to rest for a couple of minutes before serving alongside your desired toppings.

Source: Smells Like Home