These tasty chicken burgers are packed with fresh zucchini and sweet corn, making them super juicy and fun! Topped with a crunchy tomato cucumber relish, they’re a burst of summer in every bite.
I love how easy they are to grill up for a quick meal. Plus, my kids think they’re the best burgers ever—who knew veggies could be so sneaky and delicious? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the burgers. If you prefer a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. Ground beef or plant-based meat alternatives can also fit if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or dietary choice.
Zucchini: Grated zucchini keeps the burgers moist. If you don’t have zucchini, try using grated carrots or chopped spinach. Both add a nice texture and some extra nutrients!
Fresh Corn: Fresh corn adds a sweet crunch and is a great summer ingredient. Frozen corn can be a good substitute when fresh isn’t available. Just make sure to thaw and drain it before mixing.
Breadcrumbs: I prefer whole wheat breadcrumbs for added flavor and fiber. You can use regular breadcrumbs or even crushed crackers, oats, or panko for a different texture.
Red Bell Pepper: This adds color and sweetness. If you don’t have it, feel free to substitute with any bell pepper or even finely chopped jalapeño for a little kick.
How Do I Prevent My Burgers from Falling Apart?
Binding your burgers well is key to keeping them intact while cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix your ingredients gently, being careful not to overwork the meat, which can make them tough.
- The beaten egg acts as a binder, so make sure it’s evenly mixed throughout.
- Let the patties rest for a few minutes after shaping before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better.
- Cook them on medium heat. Cooking too hot can lead to burning while the inside remains undercooked, which might cause them to break apart.
Follow these tips, and you’ll enjoy perfectly grilled burgers every time!
Chicken, Zucchini, and Fresh Corn Burgers with Tomato Cucumber Relish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 medium zucchini, grated
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for binding)
For the Tomato Cucumber Relish:
- 1 large tomato, diced
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional for Serving:
- Whole grain buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced avocado
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes total: around 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking the burgers and making the relish. It’s a quick and tasty meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, fresh corn, breadcrumbs, chopped red bell pepper, green onions, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and the beaten egg. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined. Don’t be afraid to get your hands messy!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once the mixture is ready, form it into burger patties. You can make them as big or small as you like, typically 4 to 6 patties. Place them on a plate as you shape them.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat. If you’d like, add a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Cook the burgers for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them until they turn golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F or 74°C.
4. Prepare the Relish:
While the burgers are cooking, mix the diced tomato, cucumber, red onion, and parsley in a bowl. Drizzle it with olive oil and red wine vinegar, and then sprinkle in some salt and pepper. Gently toss everything together to combine those fresh flavors.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
If you’re using buns, start by placing a lettuce leaf on the bottom of each bun. Add a chicken burger patty on top, and spoon some of the refreshing tomato cucumber relish over it. If you like, add slices of avocado for extra creaminess, and then put the top bun on!
6. Serve:
Serve the burgers hot right off the grill with some extra relish on the side. Enjoy your delicious homemade chicken, zucchini, and corn burgers!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will still provide a delicious flavor. Just remember that turkey can be a bit drier than chicken, so consider adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture for added moisture.
How Can I Make the Burgers Gluten-Free?
To make these burgers gluten-free, simply substitute the whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. You can also use almond flour as an alternative if you prefer a different texture!
Storage Tips for Leftover Burgers
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in a skillet over medium heat or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal. If you want to freeze them, wrap each patty individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Burger Mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to add shredded carrots, diced bell peppers, or finely chopped spinach to the mixture for extra nutrition and flavor. Just make sure not to add too much moisture, as it may affect the binding of the patties.
