If you’re craving a bold, spicy twist on classic burgers that will have your taste buds dancing, this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy ground chicken infused with vibrant buffalo sauce and smoky spices meets the perfect kick of fresh jalapeños, layered with melty cheese and cooling ranch dressing. This burger brings together punchy flavors and hearty textures in a way that’s both satisfying and exciting, making it an absolute favorite for any casual dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the perfect Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger starts with a handful of simple yet indispensable ingredients. Each one plays a starring role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this dish unforgettable.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean base that soaks up all the bold seasoning and buffalo sauce beautifully.
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce: Adds that signature tangy and spicy heat that defines the burger’s character.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle savory punch that deepens the spice profile without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Works alongside garlic powder to give a rounded, aromatic boost.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds smoky warmth and a vibrant color, enhancing both appearance and flavor.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Brings all the flavors together by balancing and enhancing the taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Light heat and sharpness that cuts through the richness.
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted: Soft and slightly crispy, these hold your burger together with a satisfying bite.
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (for basting): Extra coat of spicy goodness to keep the burger juicy and flavorful.
- 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese: Melted over the patties for gooey richness and a little extra kick if you choose pepper jack.
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing: Creamy contrast that cools down the heat from the buffalo sauce and jalapeños.
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced: Crisp, fresh slices that bring a bright, fiery crunch.
- Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional toppings): Classic fresh toppings for added crunch and balance.
How to Make Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture
Start by combining the ground chicken in a bowl with the buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything together gently until the sauce and spices evenly coat the meat. This blends spicy, smoky, and savory flavors right into the patties.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the chicken mixture into four equal parts and shape them into burger patties about half an inch thick. Make sure they’re uniform so they cook evenly and hold together well during grilling or pan-frying.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for about 4-5 minutes on each side, basting each side with additional buffalo sauce while cooking to keep them juicy and flavorful. When you flip the patties, add a slice of cheddar or pepper jack cheese so it melts perfectly on top.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
While the patties finish cooking, toast the hamburger buns lightly until golden brown and crisp. This not only adds texture but keeps the buns from becoming soggy once the saucy burger is assembled.
Step 5: Assemble the Burgers
Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on the bottom buns, layer on some lettuce if using, then place your cheesy buffalo chicken patty. Top with thin slices of jalapeño, tomato, and red onion if you like, then crown your creation with the top bun.
How to Serve Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe
Garnishes
Garnish your burgers with fresh jalapeño slices and a drizzle of extra ranch or blue cheese dressing to amp up both heat and creaminess. Bright green lettuce and crisp red onions not only add color but provide a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the chicken patties.
Side Dishes
This burger pairs perfectly with crispy fries or sweet potato wedges for that classic burger joint vibe. For something lighter, a tangy coleslaw or simple cucumber salad adds a cool complement to the spicy flavors of the Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the burger open-faced for a seafood cocktail party or backyard BBQ to showcase the colorful layers. Alternatively, cut the burgers into smaller sliders to offer as party appetizers—each bite bursting with bold, unforgettable flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep buns separate to avoid sogginess, and add fresh toppings right before serving again.
Freezing
You can freeze uncooked patties individually wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking to maintain optimal texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat cooked patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven to avoid drying them out. Toast the buns fresh and add your toppings after warming the burger for the best eating experience.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute that offers a similar lean texture and will soak up the buffalo sauce just as well, keeping your burger juicy and flavorful.
How spicy is this Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe?
The heat level is moderate, thanks to the combination of buffalo sauce and fresh jalapeños. You can adjust the spice by choosing milder or hotter buffalo sauce and varying the amount of jalapeño slices.
What cheese works best for this burger?
Cheddar and pepper jack are the top choices. Cheddar adds a sharpness that complements the buffalo sauce, while pepper jack gives an extra layer of peppery heat, perfect for spice lovers.
Is it necessary to toast the buns?
While not mandatory, toasting the buns greatly enhances texture and flavor. It keeps them from getting soggy with the saucy patty and adds a delightful crunch that contrasts the tender meat.
Can I make these burgers ahead of time for a party?
Definitely! You can prepare patties in advance and refrigerate or freeze them. Cooking and assembling right before serving ensures they’re fresh, delicious, and ready to impress your guests.
Final Thoughts
This Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe is such a fun way to spice up your burger game. With its perfect blend of fiery heat, creamy coolness, and smoky depth, it’s bound to become a go-to in your recipe collection. I encourage you to whip up a batch soon and watch everyone’s eyes light up with every flavorful bite!
Print
Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burger recipe brings together the bold flavors of spicy buffalo sauce and fresh jalapeños with juicy ground chicken patties, topped with melty cheese and creamy ranch or blue cheese dressing, all stacked on toasted hamburger buns. Perfect for a quick and flavorful dinner that packs a punch in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembly
- 4 hamburger buns, toasted
- 1/4 cup buffalo sauce (for basting)
- 4 slices cheddar or pepper jack cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch or blue cheese dressing
- 2 jalapeños, thinly sliced
- Lettuce, tomato, and red onion (optional toppings)
Instructions
- Prepare the chicken mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken with 1/4 cup buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated, ensuring not to overwork the meat for tender burgers.
- Form the patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a round patty about 1/2 inch thick, keeping them uniform for even cooking.
- Cook the patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side until browned, then flip carefully. Baste the cooked side with buffalo sauce, then top each patty with a slice of cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or a piece of foil to help the cheese melt, cooking for another 5-6 minutes until the chicken is cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Toast the buns: While the patties are cooking, toast the hamburger buns until golden brown using a toaster or in another skillet.
- Assemble the burgers: Spread ranch or blue cheese dressing on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place the cooked chicken patty with melted cheese on top, then add thinly sliced jalapeños. Add optional toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and red onion if desired, and finish with the top bun.
- Serve immediately: Serve the Buffalo Chicken Jalapeño Burgers hot with your favorite sides like fries or a salad for a complete, spicy meal.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of buffalo sauce to control the heat level.
- For a milder option, remove the seeds from jalapeños before slicing.
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
- Ensure the chicken is fully cooked to avoid any food safety issues.
- Customize the cheese and dressing to your taste preference – pepper jack and blue cheese both pair well with buffalo flavor.
