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A grilled Chicken Caesar Burger is my easy answer to busy summer nights when everyone wants something satisfying and packed with flavor but without a lot of cleanup or planning. This recipe captures everything you love about Caesar salad and turns it into a craveable burger that feels a little more special than your average sandwich.
Every time I make these I am reminded of the first backyard cookout when a friend declared it their new favorite burger. The Caesar twist makes it a total crowd pleaser and my family asks for it any time grilling season rolls around.
Gather Your Ingredients
- Ground chicken: Adds lean protein and absorbs seasoning beautifully look for freshly ground or grind your own for the best texture
- Grated Parmesan: Brings salty umami richness to echo the Caesar salad profile choose a block and grate it fresh for max flavor
- Breadcrumbs: Keep the patties juicy and help them hold together opt for panko for extra tenderness
- Egg: Binds everything and ensures the patties are tender inside
- Lemon juice: Gives the chicken bright notes make sure to use fresh lemon for zing
- Garlic powder: Infuses the patties with savory depth find a fresh jar for best aroma
- Worcestershire sauce: Delivers subtle tangy complexity just a few shakes make a difference
- Salt and pepper: Wake up all the other flavors grind pepper fresh if you can
- Olive oil: Helps get that golden crust when you cook the patties use a fruity extra virgin type
- Burger buns: Should be fresh and sturdy enough to hold everything try brioche or a bakery potato bun
- Caesar dressing: Ties everything together and adds creamy bite choose your favorite bottle or make it from scratch if you have time
- Crisp romaine: Gives crunch and freshness look for unblemished green leaves
- Extra Parmesan for garnishing: Brings more nutty flavor shave thin slices using a vegetable peeler
How to Make It
- Make the Chicken Patty:
- Combine the ground chicken Parmesan breadcrumbs egg lemon juice garlic powder Worcestershire salt and pepper in a bowl. Use clean hands or a fork to mix until just blended do not overmix to keep patties tender. Form into four even patties slightly larger than the buns since they will shrink while cooking.
- Cook the Patties:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet or grill pan on medium. Once hot add the patties and do not move them for at least four minutes. Flip and continue cooking until each side is golden and the inside registers 165 degrees on a meat thermometer. Let them rest on a plate for a minute so juices stay inside.
- Toast and Dress the Buns:
- Slice the buns and toast them in the broiler or in a pan until just golden. Spread a generous spoonful of Caesar dressing over the bottom half of each bun so it soaks in just a bit.
- Build the Burger:
- Place a bed of crisp romaine on the dressed bun. Top with a cooked chicken patty and lay on a few Parmesan shavings. Add another drizzle of Caesar if you like. Finish with the top bun and serve straight away while everything is hot and crunchy.
My favorite part is the combination of the warm herby chicken with cold crisp romaine and that punchy creamy Caesar. Last summer my kids tried these for the first time and now they ask for them even in winter when we use the grill pan indoors.
Flavor Boosters
You can swap ground turkey for the chicken for a slightly different flavor and the same lean profile. If you want a gluten free option use your favorite gluten free breadcrumbs and buns. For a lighter version try using plain Greek yogurt mixed with lemon and Parmesan instead of Caesar dressing.
Serving Suggestions
These burgers make a fantastic main for casual summer gatherings. Offer them alongside sweet potato fries or a fresh tomato salad to highlight the bright flavors. For a little extra richness add crispy cooked bacon or a layer of creamy avocado before serving.
Creative Twists
Season the patties with fresh chopped herbs like basil or chives in the spring. Add slices of ripe summer tomato when they are at their peak. Switch to arugula or baby spinach if romaine is less fresh in winter.
Friends and family love these burgers any time of year and there is always excitement for seconds. The Caesar salad inspiration gives a familiar but unique twist that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Common Questions About This Recipe
- → How do I keep chicken patties juicy?
To retain moisture, avoid over-mixing the ground chicken and do not overcook. Adding egg and breadcrumbs also helps keep patties tender.
- → Can I use grilled chicken breasts instead of ground chicken?
Yes, grilled chicken breasts create a lighter version. Simply slice and layer on the bun with the other toppings.
- → What kind of buns work best?
Opt for soft, sturdy burger buns or brioche buns. Lightly toasting the buns prevents sogginess and adds texture.
- → How can I add extra flavor?
Enhance with crispy bacon, avocado slices, or even a dash of hot sauce. Fresh ingredients make a big difference in flavor.
- → Is homemade Caesar dressing better for this dish?
Homemade dressing allows you to control the flavor and consistency, but your favorite store-bought version works well for convenience.