Samantha When I first created this spicy chipotle chicken burger, I wanted something that packed the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with the juicy tenderness of a homemade chicken patty. Burgers have always been my go-to comfort food, but swapping beef for ground chicken and adding a bold chipotle kick makes this version both lighter and more exciting.
The beauty of this recipe is its versatility—you can grill it for summer cookouts, pan-sear it for an easy weeknight dinner, or meal prep it for quick high-protein lunches. The smoky chipotle flavor pairs perfectly with creamy toppings like avocado, chipotle mayo, or even tangy lime slaw. Every bite of this chipotle chicken burger recipe is juicy, spicy, and satisfying.
If you’re looking for a way to enjoy a healthy chicken burger with chipotle sauce, this one hits all the right notes: lean protein, bold flavor, and endless topping possibilities. And according to Healthline, capsaicin in chili peppers like chipotle may even help boost metabolism—so there’s more than just taste to love here.
Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger – Juicy, Smoky & Easy High-Protein Dinner Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken 93% lean
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo finely chopped
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- ½ small onion finely grated
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs panko or regular
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Toppings: avocado slices lettuce, tomato, cheese, chipotle mayo
Instructions
- Mix the patties: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, and spices. Mix gently.
- Form burgers: Shape mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Cook: Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Assemble: Toast buns, add lettuce and tomato, top with burger patty, avocado, cheese, and chipotle mayo.
- Serve hot: Enjoy immediately with fries, sweet potato wedges, or a crisp salad.
Notes
Secret Tips for the Best Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger
1. Use ground chicken with a little fat: Lean ground chicken breast can make the patties dry, so mix in a bit of thigh meat or add olive oil to keep your chipotle chicken burger juicy and flavorful. 2. Don’t skip the chipotle sauce: Blend chipotle peppers in adobo with a touch of Greek yogurt or mayo for a smoky, spicy burger sauce. It elevates the flavor and ties the whole high-protein dinner together. 3. Chill patties before cooking: Let the chicken patties rest in the fridge for at least 20 minutes before grilling or pan-searing. This helps them hold shape and sear beautifully. 4. Toast the buns: A lightly toasted bun adds texture and prevents it from getting soggy under the juicy, smoky chicken burger and toppings. 5. Layer with fresh toppings: Cool ingredients like avocado, lettuce, and tomato balance the spicy chipotle kick. They also add freshness, making this easy chicken burger recipe perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.Recipe Overview (Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger)
- Course: Main Course, Dinner, Lunch
- Cuisine: American, Mexican-Inspired
- Skill Level: Beginner
- Difficulty Level: Easy
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 burgers
- Main Ingredients: Ground chicken, chipotle peppers in adobo, garlic, spices
- Best For: BBQs, meal prep, weeknight dinners, high-protein meals
Nutritional Snapshot (per burger patty, no bun or toppings)
- Calories: ~260
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Potassium: 12% DV
- Vitamin B6: 20% DV
(Nutrition calculated via Nutritionix)
Budget Breakdown
Making your own chipotle chicken burgers at home is much cheaper than eating out:
- Ground chicken (1 lb) → $5.00
- Chipotle peppers in adobo (1 can) → $2.00
- Garlic, onion, spices → $1.00
- Egg + breadcrumbs → $0.80
- Burger buns + toppings → $4.50
Total Cost: ~$13.30 for 4 burgers
Per burger: ~$3.32
Behind the Recipe
This spicy chicken chipotle burger was inspired by my love for smoky, spicy flavors that remind me of summer grilling. Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are one of my secret weapons in the kitchen—they add depth, heat, and a rich smokiness that transforms simple ground chicken into something extraordinary.
I’ve experimented with countless variations: adding cheese directly into the patties, topping them with chipotle aioli, or layering avocado slices for creaminess. No matter the variation, the result is always a juicy, flavorful burger that feels restaurant-worthy but is easy enough to make at home.
Ground chicken can sometimes be bland, but the chipotle peppers fix that instantly. Plus, chicken is a leaner protein option. According to the USDA FoodData Central, chicken breast is low in fat yet high in protein, making it perfect for those who want a burger that’s both satisfying and lighter than beef.
Why You’ll Love This Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger
When I make this spicy chipotle chicken burger, I know I’m creating a meal that satisfies comfort food cravings without feeling heavy. It’s bold, smoky, and spicy with just the right balance of creaminess from toppings like avocado or chipotle mayo. Unlike a traditional beef burger, this recipe uses lean ground chicken, making it lighter yet still hearty enough to keep you full.
Juicy and Flavorful
The star of this burger is the chipotle pepper in adobo sauce. It brings a smoky heat that pairs beautifully with garlic and spices, creating a juicy patty that’s never bland. According to Healthline, the capsaicin in chili peppers doesn’t just add flavor—it can also support metabolism and heart health, making this burger as beneficial as it is delicious.
Lean Protein
Ground chicken makes this burger lower in fat than beef but still rich in protein. That means you get the satisfying bite of a burger while keeping things a bit lighter. It’s a healthy chipotle chicken burger recipe that works for both casual weeknight dinners and special summer cookouts.
Customizable
This burger is a blank canvas. You can go classic with lettuce, tomato, and cheese, or elevate it with toppings like lime slaw, guacamole, or pepper jack cheese. For a low-carb option, serve it in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
Quick and Easy
From start to finish, this chipotle chicken burger recipe takes under 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver on busy nights. You can pan-sear them indoors or throw them on the grill for that smoky BBQ flavor.
Meal Prep Friendly
Make a double batch and freeze the patties raw or cooked. They reheat beautifully, which means you’ll always have a high-protein, flavorful dinner ready to go.
More Recipes You’ll Want on Your Table
If this spicy chipotle chicken burger has you craving more bold, comforting flavors, here are a few of my other recipes that will inspire your next meal:
Smoky & Comforting: Barbecue Meatball Bowls with Avocado Goddess Sauce
Packed with smoky BBQ flavor and creamy herb dressing, this meal prep favorite is as comforting as it is high in protein.
Cozy & Hearty: Old-Fashioned Sloppy Joes
A sweet and tangy ground beef classic that pairs beautifully with smoky burgers and casual family dinners.
Light & Flavorful: Southwest Chicken Salad Bowl
A fresh, protein-packed bowl loaded with spices, crisp veggies, and a zesty dressing that complements bold chipotle flavors.
Perfect For
This spicy chipotle chicken burger recipe is one of my favorites because it’s so versatile. Whether you’re planning a backyard barbecue, a quick family dinner, or prepping meals for the week, this burger works every time. It has that smoky chipotle kick people love, but since it’s made with lean ground chicken, it feels lighter than a beef burger while still being satisfying and protein-packed.
Summer BBQs
Nothing says summer like grilling, and these grilled chipotle chicken burgers are guaranteed to be a hit. They bring a smoky, spicy flavor that pairs perfectly with classic BBQ sides like corn on the cob and coleslaw. According to Cleveland Clinic, chicken is a leaner protein than beef, making it a smart choice when you want to enjoy your cookout without overindulging.
Weeknight Dinners
When I need a dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes but still feels indulgent, these chipotle chicken patties are my go-to. They’re flavorful enough to satisfy burger cravings but much healthier than grabbing fast food on the way home.
Meal Prep
This recipe is perfect for batch cooking. The patties freeze well, reheat beautifully, and taste just as juicy the next day. Having these meal prep chipotle chicken burgers ready to go means you’ll always have a high-protein option for busy weekdays.
High-Protein Lunches
Serve one of these healthy chipotle chicken burgers on a salad or in a lettuce wrap for a lighter lunch that still delivers big flavor. With 27g of protein per patty, it’s the kind of meal that keeps you full all afternoon.
Entertaining Guests
If you’re hosting and want to wow your guests with something a little different, these smoky chipotle chicken burgers are always a crowd-pleaser. Add fun toppings like avocado, pepper jack cheese, or lime slaw to give your burger bar a gourmet twist.
More Recipes You’ll Crave After This Burger
If this spicy chipotle chicken burger has your mouth watering, you’ll love these other bold and comforting dishes from my kitchen:
Bold & Hearty: Balsamic Steak Salad
A balsamic steak salad made with tender grilled steak, crisp greens, fresh veggies, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette for a healthy yet hearty meal.
Protein-Packed Classic: Healthy Ground Turkey Teriyaki Rice Bowl
A healthy ground turkey teriyaki rice bowl with lean ground turkey, fluffy rice, and colorful vegetables tossed in a savory homemade teriyaki sauce for a quick high-protein meal.
Comfort Favorite: Delicious Eggplant Lasagna
A delicious eggplant lasagna layered with roasted eggplant slices, rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and savory herbs for a lighter, low-carb twist on the classic comfort dish.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb ground chicken (93% lean)
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo (finely chopped)
- 1 tbsp adobo sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ small onion, finely grated
- 1 egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (panko or regular)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- Toppings: avocado slices, lettuce, tomato, cheese, chipotle mayo
Ingredient Highlights
- Ground chicken: A lean protein base that makes the burgers lighter.
- Chipotle peppers in adobo: The star ingredient, bringing smoky spice and depth.
- Breadcrumbs & egg: Bind the patties for a tender, juicy texture.
- Spices: Smoked paprika and cumin enhance the earthy, bold flavor.
- Toppings: Fresh avocado and chipotle mayo balance the heat with creaminess.
How to Make This Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burger
- Mix the patties: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, chipotle peppers, adobo sauce, garlic, onion, egg, breadcrumbs, and spices. Mix gently.
- Form burgers: Shape mixture into 4 equal patties.
- Cook: Grill or pan-sear over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Assemble: Toast buns, add lettuce and tomato, top with burger patty, avocado, cheese, and chipotle mayo.
- Serve hot: Enjoy immediately with fries, sweet potato wedges, or a crisp salad.
Sam’s Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overmix: Handle the chicken mixture gently to avoid dense patties.
- Use wet hands: This prevents sticking when shaping patties.
- Check temperature: Cook until 165°F to ensure food safety.
- Chill patties before cooking: Helps them hold shape better.
- Double the recipe: Freeze extra patties for quick weeknight dinners.
Easy Variations You Can Try
One of the best things about this spicy chipotle chicken burger is how easy it is to customize. The smoky flavor of chipotle blends well with cheese, fresh toppings, and even low-carb swaps, so you can make the recipe work for any craving or occasion. Here are some of my favorite variations that keep the patties juicy, bold, and delicious.
Grilled Chipotle Chicken Burger
For a true smoky flavor, fire up the grill and cook your grilled chipotle chicken burgers over charcoal or wood chips. The flames bring out the natural smokiness of chipotle peppers, making every bite taste like a backyard cookout classic. According to EatRight.org, grilling is also a lean cooking method that can help reduce extra fat while still keeping food flavorful.
Cheesy Chipotle Burger
Mix shredded pepper jack or cheddar cheese directly into the ground chicken mixture before forming the patties. This creates a cheesy chipotle chicken burger that’s melty, gooey, and extra satisfying. Pepper jack adds even more spice, while cheddar balances the heat with richness.
Low-Carb Version
If you’re following a low-carb or keto lifestyle, swap the bun for crisp lettuce wraps. These low-carb chipotle chicken burgers are lighter but still full of flavor. Add avocado or guacamole for healthy fats and you’ve got a balanced, bunless burger that’s perfect for weeknight dinners.
Avocado Lime Topping
Top your burger with fresh avocado slices drizzled in lime juice for a creamy, cooling contrast to the smoky spice. This chipotle chicken burger with avocado lime topping feels fresh, vibrant, and restaurant-worthy, and it’s an easy way to elevate a weeknight meal.
Chipotle Aioli Chicken Burger
For extra richness, whip up a quick chipotle mayo or aioli and spread it on your bun. This chipotle aioli chicken burger doubles down on smoky heat and creaminess, making it a favorite for spice lovers.
More Recipes to Spice Up Your Menu
If you enjoyed these twists on the spicy chipotle chicken burger, you’ll love these bold and comforting recipes from my kitchen:
Smoky Favorite: Sweet and Smoky BBQ Chicken Thighs
Sweet and smoky BBQ chicken thighs grilled or baked to perfection, coated in a rich barbecue glaze for a juicy, flavorful dinner favorite.
Cozy Classic: One-Pan Kielbasa Sausage and Potato Skillet
A hearty one-pan kielbasa sausage and potato skillet with golden potatoes, smoky sausage, and savory seasonings cooked together for an easy, flavorful dinner.
Protein Boost: Ground Turkey and Zucchini Skillet
A ground turkey and zucchini skillet made with lean turkey, tender zucchini, and savory seasonings for a quick, healthy, and protein-packed one-pan dinner.
Storage and Reheat Tips
- Refrigerator: Store cooked patties in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Freeze raw or cooked patties for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Warm in skillet or oven until hot; avoid microwaving to keep texture.
Make It a Meal
Pair your spicy chipotle chicken burger with these favorites:
Check out more here:
Frequently Asked Questions
Are chipotle chicken burgers healthy?
Yes! Using lean ground chicken makes them lighter than beef burgers, while chipotle peppers add bold flavor without extra calories. According to Cleveland Clinic, chicken has less saturated fat than beef, making it a healthier protein option when you want a burger that’s satisfying but not overly heavy.
Can I make spicy chipotle chicken burgers without a grill?
Absolutely. These spicy chipotle chicken patties cook perfectly in a skillet or even baked in the oven. The smoky, spicy flavor comes from the chipotle peppers themselves, so you don’t need a grill to enjoy them.
How do I keep chicken burgers from drying out?
The key to juicy chipotle chicken burgers is adding moisture with grated onion, garlic, or a splash of olive oil. Be careful not to overcook—pull them off the heat as soon as they reach 165°F internal temperature to lock in juiciness.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey is an excellent substitute and works beautifully with chipotle peppers. It creates a spicy chipotle turkey burger that’s just as flavorful, though slightly leaner in texture.
What toppings go best with chipotle chicken burgers?
Classic toppings like avocado, chipotle mayo, pepper jack cheese, and lime slaw are always a hit. You can also add guacamole or grilled pineapple for a fresh twist on your chipotle chicken burger recipe.
Are chipotle peppers very spicy?
Chipotle peppers are medium in heat but bring a deep, smoky flavor that balances the spice. You can make your smoky chipotle chicken burger milder by using fewer peppers and more adobo sauce, or spicier by adding extra peppers.
Can I meal prep chipotle chicken burgers?
Yes, this recipe is ideal for meal prep. Shape the patties and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking, or freeze them raw. They also freeze well once cooked, making them perfect for quick high-protein dinners.
How do I freeze chipotle chicken burgers?
After shaping, place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer to a freezer bag. This prevents sticking. Reheat cooked burgers in the oven or skillet to keep them juicy.
Can I make chipotle chicken burgers gluten-free?
Yes, simply replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko or almond flour. These gluten-free chipotle chicken burgers hold their shape while staying moist and flavorful.
What side dishes pair well with chipotle chicken burgers?
They’re fantastic with sweet potato fries, corn on the cob, or a crisp salad. A side of Mexican-style rice or grilled vegetables also balances the smoky heat. According to EatRight.org, pairing lean proteins with fiber-rich veggies makes for a more balanced, heart-healthy meal.
How can I make my chipotle chicken burger less spicy?
Reduce the number of chipotle peppers and balance the flavor with creamy toppings like avocado, Greek yogurt sauce, or a dollop of sour cream.
Can I add cheese inside the patty?
Yes! Mixing shredded cheddar or pepper jack directly into the ground chicken creates a cheesy chipotle chicken burger with melty goodness in every bite.
Final Thoughts
This spicy chipotle chicken burger is everything I love about comfort food—it’s smoky, juicy, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re making it for a summer BBQ, a quick weeknight dinner, or meal prep, it’s guaranteed to hit the spot.
I love that it proves healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring—sometimes all you need is a little spice, a creamy topping, and a perfectly cooked patty to turn dinner into something special.
“Smoky, spicy, and irresistibly juicy—this spicy chipotle chicken burger proves that comfort food can be bold, healthy, and downright unforgettable.” – Sam
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A smoky, juicy ground chicken burger infused with chipotle peppers, garlic, and spices—perfect for grilling, weeknight dinners, or meal prep.
