If you’re searching for a show-stopping sandwich that’s both wholesome and wildly delicious, look no further than the White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe. This burger packs juicy ground chicken seasoned perfectly, silky-sweet caramelized onions, and a layer of melty white cheddar between a golden toasted bun. Every bite is savory, satisfying, and just a little bit gourmet – perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or your next backyard get-together. With simple pantry staples and fresh, vibrant toppings, this recipe transforms the ordinary chicken burger into something truly memorable.

White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe relies on a handful of everyday ingredients, but each one plays a starring role. From the ground chicken’s juicy tenderness to the sharp, creamy cheddar and sweet balsamic-kissed onions, every element helps build big flavor and irresistible texture.

Ground chicken (1 lb): The star of the show – lean, juicy, and perfect for holding all those seasonings together.
Garlic powder (1/2 teaspoon): Adds punchy depth and a subtle backbone to your burgers.
Onion powder (1/2 teaspoon): Boosts savory flavor and complements the real caramelized onions.
Smoked paprika (1/2 teaspoon): For a whisper of smokiness that makes these burgers sing on the skillet or grill.
Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Essential for bringing all the flavors to life in the patties.
Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): A touch of heat and brightness to round things out.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Key to coaxing sweetness and color from your onions as they caramelize.
Yellow onion (1 large, thinly sliced): The hero topping! Go for a big, bold onion for the best melt-in-your-mouth results.
Balsamic vinegar (1 teaspoon): A game-changer – it adds tang and brings out the rich sweetness of the onions.
White cheddar cheese (4 slices): Melty, sharp, and gorgeously creamy – it pairs perfectly with the chicken and onions.
Burger buns (4, toasted): Toasting takes them over the top, giving every bite a satisfying crunch and structure.
Optional toppings (lettuce, tomato slices, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard): Add fresh, zesty, and creamy finishing touches to build your best burger.

How to Make White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe

Step 1: Make the Chicken Patties

Start by combining the ground chicken, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a large bowl. Use clean hands or a spoon to gently mix until just combined; over-mixing can make burgers dense. Shape into four even patties, about 3/4-inch thick, and set aside. This step is your ticket to juicy, flavorful burgers every single time!

Step 2: Caramelize the Onions

Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat, then add your sliced onions. Cook, stirring every few minutes, for 15 to 20 minutes. The onions will gradually soften, turn golden, and become sweetly aromatic. Right at the end, stir in the balsamic vinegar and let it bubble up. This will deepen the flavor and make your onions unforgettable. Remove from the skillet and keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Patties

In the same skillet (or on a grill, if you want those classic char marks), place your chicken patties over medium heat. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, only flipping once, until fully cooked through. You’re aiming for a golden crust and an internal temperature of 165°F. For extra juiciness, don’t press down on the patties as they cook.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese

When the chicken patties are almost done, top each with a slice of that glorious white cheddar. Cover the skillet with a lid (or tent foil over the burgers on the grill) for just a minute to create a steam bath – this helps the cheese melt into every nook and cranny for ultimate gooeyness.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Toast your buns until golden and crisp. Now comes the fun part: Spread a little mayo or Dijon on the buns, add a layer of lettuce and tomato if you like, slide on the cheesy chicken patty, and finish with a generous tangle of those caramelized onions. Press the top bun gently and get ready for burger bliss!

How to Serve White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe

Garnishes

For a pop of color and vibrancy, top your burgers with ribbons of fresh lettuce or baby arugula and slices of ripe tomato. A few slivered green onions or a sprinkle of fresh parsley add an extra-fresh twist, while a smear of Dijon or sriracha mayo provides zippy contrast.

Side Dishes

This White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe pairs fabulously with crispy oven fries, sweet potato wedges, or a bright summer slaw. A simple mixed greens salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette also balances the richness of the burger – and don’t forget a crunchy pickle spear on the side!

Creative Ways to Present

For a crowd, turn these into sliders using mini brioche buns and serve them buffet-style with a toppings bar. Or, swap buns for butter lettuce leaves for a lighter lettuce-wrap version. You can even stack a few thin-sliced pickles or add grilled peppers for extra punch. However you serve them, these burgers always make a statement.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with any leftover White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe, simply wrap the cooked patties and onions tightly in foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll stay tasty and moist for up to 3 days, letting those flavors meld even more.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze the uncooked chicken patties – just layer them with parchment paper and seal in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Caramelized onions freeze well, too. For best cheese-melt results, add the cheddar fresh when reheating, rather than freezing with the patties assembled.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the chicken patties in a covered skillet over low heat with a splash of water (this prevents drying). Add the cheese just before serving so it melts perfectly. Gently reheat the caramelized onions in the microwave or skillet until warmed through, then build your burger as usual.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this recipe and soaks up the seasonings just as well, giving you a similar tender, juicy burger with a slightly different flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Just swap out the regular burger buns for your favorite gluten-free variety, and double-check ingredient labels on your condiments. Everything else in the White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What else can I add for extra crunch or flavor?

For even bolder texture, try adding a layer of crisp pickles, creamy avocado slices, or crunchy fried onions. A dash of hot sauce or a few jalapeño rings can also turn up the heat.

Can I make the caramelized onions ahead?

Yes! Caramelized onions keep wonderfully in the fridge for up to five days, so you can prep them in advance and have them on hand for this White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe – or just about anything else that needs a sweet, savory topping.

Is it possible to grill the burgers instead of pan-cooking?

Definitely. Fire up your grill and oil the grates well. Grill the patties over medium heat for the same amount of time, and top with cheese right before they’re finished. You’ll get delicious smoky flavor that pairs so nicely with the caramelized onions!

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re feeding the family or treating friends, this White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe is always a crowd-pleaser. There’s just something magical about the juicy patties, melty cheese, and sweet onions all tucked in a toasted bun. Give it a try, and watch as these burgers become a new favorite in your home too!

White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions Recipe

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4.7 from 8 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 4 burgers 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

These White Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Caramelized Onions are a juicy and flavorful twist on classic burgers. The tender chicken patties are seasoned to perfection and topped with gooey melted cheddar and sweet balsamic onions, all sandwiched between toasted buns.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Chicken Patties:

1 lb ground chicken
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon onion powder
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For Caramelized Onions:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 teaspoon balsamic vinegar

Additional Ingredients:

4 slices white cheddar cheese
4 burger buns, toasted
Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato slices, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard

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Instructions

Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a bowl, combine ground chicken with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Form into 4 equal patties.
Caramelize the Onions: Heat a skillet over medium-low heat, add olive oil, and cook sliced onions for 15–20 minutes until golden. Stir in balsamic vinegar.
Cook the Chicken Patties: Cook patties in the same skillet or on a grill for 5–6 minutes per side. Top with cheddar to melt.
Assemble the Burgers: Toast buns, then stack with chicken patties, caramelized onions, and desired toppings.
Serve hot and enjoy!