Name: Healthy & Juicy! Chicken, Zucchini & Corn Burgers Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: PT-484748H8M35S
Total time: PT-484748H8M35S
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 lb ground chicken (or finely chopped chicken breast); 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out; 1/2 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned, drained, and rinsed); 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 egg; 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (or gluten-free alternative); 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, grated; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika; 2 tbsp olive oil

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These chicken, zucchini, and corn burgers are the perfect blend of health and flavor. They are packed with lean protein, fiber-rich vegetables, and natural sweetness from fresh corn. Unlike traditional beef burgers, these are lighter and infused with a delightful freshness that makes them ideal for a wholesome meal. Plus, they are easy to make and can be enjoyed in various ways—on a bun, in a lettuce wrap, or even on their own with a side of salad.

Ingredients

chicken breast or ground chicken
zucchini
fresh corn kernels
red onion
garlic
egg
breadcrumbs
parsley
parmesan cheese
salt
black pepper
smoked paprika
olive oil

Directions

Prepare the Vegetables: Grate the zucchini and squeeze out any excess moisture using a clean kitchen towel. Finely chop the red onion and garlic.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, fresh corn kernels, chopped onion, minced garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, grated parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape them into burger patties, ensuring they are firm and evenly shaped.
Cook the Burgers: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Serve and Enjoy: Serve the burgers on whole wheat buns, lettuce wraps, or as a protein-packed addition to salads. Add your favorite toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt sauce, or sliced tomatoes.

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the mixture for a bit of heat.
Cheesy Delight: Stuff the patties with mozzarella or feta cheese for a melty, flavorful center.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour instead of regular breadcrumbs.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to give the burgers a unique taste.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
Total Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4 burgers

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freeze uncooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring them to a freezer bag. They can be stored for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

FAQs

Can I use canned corn instead of fresh corn?

Yes, canned corn works well in this recipe. Just make sure to drain and rinse it before adding it to the mixture.

How do I prevent the patties from falling apart?

Make sure to squeeze out excess moisture from the zucchini and use enough breadcrumbs to bind the ingredients together.

Can I grill these burgers?

Absolutely! Grill them over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes per side, ensuring they don’t stick by lightly oiling the grates.

What toppings go best with these burgers?

Avocado slices, Greek yogurt sauce, tomato slices, and crispy lettuce pair wonderfully with these burgers.

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey is a great alternative and works just as well in this recipe.

Are these burgers keto-friendly?

They can be made keto-friendly by replacing breadcrumbs with almond flour or crushed pork rinds.

Can I make the mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the mixture up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge before shaping and cooking the patties.

What side dishes go well with these burgers?

They pair well with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

Can I bake these burgers instead of pan-frying?

Yes, you can bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.

How do I make them dairy-free?

Simply omit the parmesan cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.

Conclusion

These healthy and juicy chicken, zucchini, and corn burgers are a fantastic alternative to traditional burgers, offering a delicious and nutritious meal option. They are easy to make, customizable, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Try them today and enjoy a wholesome, flavorful bite!

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