Are you craving a juicy burger but looking for something a bit different? Chicken Teriyaki Burgers are the answer! With tender ground chicken patties infused with savory teriyaki sauce and paired with a refreshing sesame slaw, these burgers offer a deliciously unique twist on the classic. The combination of sweet and salty teriyaki flavors, the crunch of the slaw, and the richness of the yum yum sauce all come together in a perfect harmony of taste and texture. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner or a special weekend treat, these Chicken Teriyaki Burgers are sure to impress!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Teriyaki Burgers
- Flavorsome Chicken Patties: The ground chicken is infused with savory teriyaki sauce and seasoned with garlic powder for a tasty burger base.
- Crunchy Sesame Slaw: A simple yet delicious slaw made with shredded cabbage, toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar adds a fresh, tangy crunch to each bite.
- Customizable Toppings: With the option to use your favorite sauces like yum yum sauce, sriracha, or chili crisp, you can easily make these burgers your own.
- Easy to Make: These burgers come together quickly with minimal prep, making them a perfect meal for busy nights or weekend barbecues.
- Healthier Alternative: Made with lean ground chicken, these burgers are lighter than traditional beef patties but still packed with flavor.
Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki Burgers
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb. ground chicken – The main protein base for the burgers, tender and juicy.
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce – Adds a sweet and savory depth of flavor to the chicken patties.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs – Helps bind the chicken mixture and adds light texture to the patty.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – Infuses the patties with a mild garlic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors in the chicken.
For the Sesame Slaw:
- 2 cups shredded cabbage – The main ingredient for the slaw, providing a crunchy texture.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil – Adds a nutty, rich flavor to the slaw.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar – Provides a tangy kick that balances the sweetness of the teriyaki sauce.
- 1 teaspoon sugar – Adds a touch of sweetness to the slaw.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor of the slaw.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional) – Adds a fresh, oniony crunch to the slaw.
For Assembly:
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil – For frying the burgers, providing a light, neutral oil that won’t overpower the flavors.
- 4 brioche buns – Soft and slightly sweet, these buns perfectly complement the juicy chicken patties.
- 1/4 cup yum yum sauce (or your favorite sauce like mayo, sriracha, or chili crisp) – Adds creaminess and a bit of spice, enhancing the flavor of the burgers.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Teriyaki Burgers
1. Make the Sesame Slaw
Start by preparing the sesame slaw. In a medium bowl, toss together the shredded cabbage, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, and salt. Stir well until everything is evenly coated. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more vinegar or sugar to balance the flavors to your liking. Optionally, add some chopped green onions for an extra crunch and flavor boost. Set the slaw aside while you prepare the burgers.
2. Make the Chicken Burgers
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, teriyaki sauce, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and salt. Use your hands to mix everything together until well-combined, ensuring that the breadcrumbs and seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the chicken. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty.
3. Fry the Burgers
Heat the avocado oil over medium heat in a large skillet or frying pan. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken patties to the pan. Cook the patties for about 3-5 minutes per side until they are golden brown and mostly cooked through. Flip the patties and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is no longer pink in the middle.
4. Toast the Buns
While the burgers are cooking, toast the brioche buns. Wipe out the skillet if there are any burned bits left from the burgers. Place the buns, cut side down, into the skillet over medium-low heat. Toast them for about 30 seconds to 1 minute or until lightly golden and crispy.
5. Assemble the Burgers
To assemble the burgers, spread a generous amount of yum yum sauce (or your preferred sauce) on the bottom of each toasted bun. Place a cooked chicken patty on top of the sauce. Top with a hearty portion of the prepared sesame slaw, then cover with the top half of the bun. Serve immediately and enjoy the fusion of flavors!
Serving Suggestions
- Side Dishes: Serve these flavorful burgers with a side of crispy sweet potato fries, a fresh garden salad, or even grilled vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
- Make It Spicy: For those who like a bit of heat, add some sriracha to the yum yum sauce or drizzle chili crisp on top of the slaw for a fiery kick.
- Perfect for BBQs: These burgers are a great addition to any backyard BBQ, offering a lighter and more flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for the burgers?
Yes, ground turkey would work as a substitute for chicken. Just make sure it’s lean ground turkey for the best results.
Can I make the sesame slaw in advance?
Yes! The sesame slaw can be made a few hours ahead of time and stored in the fridge. The flavors will actually deepen as it sits.
Can I cook the chicken patties on the grill?
Absolutely! You can grill these patties instead of frying them. Just make sure your grill is preheated and oiled to prevent sticking.
Conclusion
These Chicken Teriyaki Burgers offer a delicious twist on traditional burgers, combining savory, sweet, and tangy flavors in every bite. The juicy chicken patties are enhanced with teriyaki sauce, while the refreshing sesame slaw adds the perfect crunch. With customizable sauces and a quick preparation time, these burgers are a perfect choice for a weeknight dinner or a fun BBQ dish. Try them out and treat your taste buds to a burst of unique and mouthwatering flavors!