Kitchen Equipment Needed
- Large mixing bowl
- Small mixing bowl
- Grill or stovetop skillet
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Spatula
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Directions
1. Prepare the Buffalo Chicken Filling
In a small mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, buffalo wing sauce, softened cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the ingredients are well combined and the chicken is coated with the buffalo sauce. Set aside.
2. Make the Chicken Burger Patties
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until everything is incorporated, but don’t overwork the mixture or the burgers may become tough.
3. Shape the Patties
Divide the ground chicken mixture into 8 equal portions. Flatten each portion into a thin patty about 1/4 inch thick. Take a tablespoon of the buffalo chicken filling and place it in the center of 4 of the patties. Then, take the remaining 4 patties and place them on top of the stuffed ones, sealing the edges by pressing them together firmly to encase the filling completely.
4. Cook the Burgers
Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking. Cook the stuffed chicken burgers for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). If you’re grilling, flip carefully to avoid spilling the filling.
5. Add the Cheese
In the last minute or two of cooking, place a slice of cheddar or American cheese on top of each burger and let it melt.
6. Assemble the Burgers
Toast your hamburger buns if desired, then place the buffalo chicken stuffed burger on the bottom half of the bun. Top with lettuce, tomato, red onion slices, and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing if you like. Add the top bun, and your burger is ready to serve!
Notes and Tips
- Spice Level: You can control the heat by adjusting the amount of buffalo sauce. For a milder burger, use less sauce or opt for a milder buffalo sauce.
- Cheese Options: While cheddar or American cheese is classic for melting on burgers, you can experiment with blue cheese crumbles for an even more intense buffalo wing experience.
- Cooking Method: You can cook these stuffed burgers on an outdoor grill, a stovetop skillet, or even bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Make-Ahead: You can prepare the stuffed patties in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking.