These juicy chicken burgers are mixed with fresh zucchini and sweet corn, making them a tasty twist on a classic. The tomato cucumber relish adds a cool, refreshing touch!
I love how colorful these burgers look on my plate. Plus, they’re a fun way to sneak in some veggies without anyone noticing! Perfect for summer cookouts! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein in the burgers. If you’re looking for a leaner option or have dietary restrictions, ground turkey makes a great substitute.
Zucchini: Grated zucchini adds moisture and nutrients. If zucchini isn’t available, try using grated carrots or shredded yellow squash instead.
Fresh Corn: Sweet corn gives the burgers a nice crunch and flavor. If fresh corn isn’t in season, frozen corn can work well—just thaw it and drain before adding.
Breadcrumbs: I use regular breadcrumbs for texture, but if you’re gluten-free, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs are excellent alternatives.
Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes add sweetness to the relish. If you prefer, chopped regular tomatoes or even diced peppers can also create a tasty mixture.
How Do You Ensure Juicy Chicken Patties Without Drying Them Out?
The key to juicy patties is not to overmix the ingredients. Combine everything gently until just mixed; this keeps the mixture tender. Also, don’t skip the egg—it’s a binder that helps maintain moisture.
- Shape your patties gently, being careful not to compact them too much.
- Cook on medium heat, so they have time to cook through without burning. A good sear on the outside will help lock in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer if unsure; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Delicious Chicken, Zucchini, and Fresh Corn Burgers with Tomato Cucumber Relish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup zucchini, grated and drained
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears of corn)
- 1/2 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup green onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil (for cooking)
For the Tomato Cucumber Relish:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 20 minutes of preparation and 15-20 minutes of cooking time, giving you a total of about 40 minutes. You’ll enjoy the wonderful process of mixing, shaping, cooking, and savoring your homemade burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, grated zucchini, fresh corn kernels, finely chopped red bell pepper, green onion, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together gently until just combined, being careful not to over-mix.
2. Shape the Patties:
Once the mixture is well combined, shape it into burger patties about 3-4 inches in diameter. Try to make them even in thickness for even cooking. Set the patties aside on a plate.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the patties in batches. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. They should be a lovely golden brown and cooked through. You may want to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
4. Make the Tomato Cucumber Relish:
While the burgers are cooking, prepare the refreshing tomato cucumber relish. In a medium bowl, combine the diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, finely chopped red onion, chopped fresh basil, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well and set it aside to let the flavors come together.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the burgers are cooked, serve them warm! You can place the tomato cucumber relish right on top of the burgers or serve it on the side. Pair them with your favorite salad or side for a complete meal. Enjoy your delicious and healthy burgers!
Can I Use Frozen Ground Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen ground chicken, but make sure to thaw it completely before mixing it with the other ingredients. The best way to thaw is to place it in the fridge overnight, or you can use the quick method by sealing it in a plastic bag and submerging it in cold water for about an hour.
What Can I Substitute for Fresh Corn?
If fresh corn isn’t available, feel free to use frozen corn instead! Just thaw it and pat it dry before mixing it into the burger mixture. Canned corn is another option; just make sure to drain it well to avoid excess moisture.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them on a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes on each side until warmed through, or pop them in the microwave for a quick meal!
Can I Make the Burgers Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can shape the patties in advance and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked patties separated by parchment paper and stored in a zip-top bag for up to 3 months. Just cook them from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
