These Teriyaki Chicken Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Made with ground chicken, they are topped with a sweet teriyaki sauce that gives each bite a tasty twist.
I love grilling these burgers on a sunny day. They pair perfectly with fresh veggies or a side of fries. Trust me, you’ll want to make them again and again! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of our burgers. You can substitute it with ground turkey for a slightly different flavor, or for a meatless option, try using black beans or lentils mixed with breadcrumbs and spices.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the patties a nice texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will work too. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are another option if you’re avoiding gluten.
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds sweetness and a sunny flavor. If it’s out of season, canned pineapple works just fine. You can also use grilled peaches for a unique twist!
Green Onions: These add a fresh, mild onion flavor. If you’re out, chives can be a nice substitute, or simply skip them if you prefer.
How Do You Make the Perfect Teriyaki Sauce?
Creating a thick and glossy teriyaki sauce at home is easy! Start by combining soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar, water, grated ginger, and garlic in a saucepan. This mix brings together sweet and savory flavors beautifully.
- Simmer the mixture over medium heat until it starts to bubble.
- Mix cornstarch with a dash of water to make a slurry, then whisk it into the simmering sauce to thicken.
- Cook for a couple of minutes until the sauce coats the back of a spoon.
Once thickened, let it cool slightly before using. Adjust sweetness or saltiness to suit your taste!
What’s the Best Way to Grill Chicken Burgers?
Grilling chicken burgers can be tricky due to their lower fat content. Here are some tips to keep them juicy:
- Preheat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat to create a nice sear.
- Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, flipping only once for even cooking.
- Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
Brushing on teriyaki sauce in the last minute of cooking adds great flavor without burning it.
How to Make Delicious Teriyaki Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Patties:
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons green onions, finely chopped (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 4 sandwich buns
- Green leaf lettuce leaves
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Pineapple rings or chunks (fresh or canned)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar or honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons water
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 clove garlic, minced
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 15 minutes for preparation and around 15 minutes for cooking, bringing the total to about 30 minutes. This includes making the teriyaki sauce, forming the patties, and grilling everything to perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Make the Teriyaki Sauce:
Start by creating your sweet and savory teriyaki sauce. In a small saucepan, mix together the soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, rice vinegar, water, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Heat over medium until it simmers. In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch with a little water to make a slurry, then whisk this into the sauce. Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes until thickened. Once done, set it aside!
2. Prepare the Patties:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, panko breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, grated ginger, soy sauce, green onions (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined. Take care not to overmix—this helps keep your patties nice and tender!
3. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts. Shape each part into a burger patty, about 1-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
4. Cook the Pineapple:
If you’re using fresh pineapple, grill or pan-fry the rings over medium-high heat until they are nicely caramelized, which usually takes about 2 minutes per side. Set aside.
5. Cook the Chicken Burgers:
Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high. Cook the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). In the last minute of cooking, brush the patties generously with the teriyaki sauce for extra flavor!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Lightly toast your sandwich buns. On the bottom half, place a leaf of green lettuce and a few slices of red onion. Then, add the cooked chicken patty, a spoonful of extra teriyaki sauce, and top with the caramelized pineapple.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sesame seeds over the pineapple for a nice touch, and serve your delicious teriyaki chicken burgers immediately. Enjoy your juicy and flavorful creation!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will work well in this recipe. Just be mindful that it may result in a slightly different flavor and texture, but it will still be delicious!
How Can I Make the Burgers Spicier?
If you’d like a bit of heat, try adding a teaspoon of sriracha or minced jalapeños to the chicken mixture. You can also serve the burgers with a spicy aioli or hot sauce for an extra kick!
Can I Freeze the Patties Before Cooking?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties! Keep them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they’re firm, then transfer them to a freezer-safe zip-top bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling!
What Toppings Can I Use Besides Pineapple?
While pineapple adds a great sweetness, you can get creative with your toppings! Consider avocado slices, mango salsa, pickled jalapeños, or even a slice of pepper jack cheese for extra flavor.
