These Chicken Teriyaki Burgers are a delightful fusion of juicy, caramelized chicken patties topped with a tangy sesame slaw, all nestled within a perfectly toasted brioche bun. Quick to prepare and bursting with flavor, they’re an ideal choice for a satisfying dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

Chicken Teriyaki Burgers:

1 lb ground chicken
1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt

Sesame Slaw:

2 cups shredded cabbage
1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
1 tablespoon rice vinegar
1 teaspoon sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)

Extras:

2 tablespoons avocado oil for frying
4 brioche buns
1/4 cup yum yum sauce (or preferred sauce like mayo, sriracha, or chili crisp)

Directions

Prepare the Sesame Slaw: In a bowl, combine shredded cabbage, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and green onions (if using). Toss well and set aside.
Make the Burger Patties: In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, teriyaki sauce, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and salt until well combined. Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties.
Cook the Burgers: Heat avocado oil in a nonstick or grill pan over medium heat. Cook the patties for 3-5 minutes on one side until golden brown, then flip and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Toast the Buns: In the same pan, lightly toast the brioche buns, cut side down, over medium-low heat until golden and warm.
Assemble the Burgers: Spread yum yum sauce on both the top and bottom halves of each bun. Place a chicken patty on the bottom bun, top with a generous portion of sesame slaw, and cover with the top bun. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (1 burger):

Calories: 574
Protein: 23.2 g
Fat: 32.4 g
Carbohydrates: 42.3 g

The Origins of Teriyaki

Teriyaki, a cooking method that originated in Japan, involves grilling or broiling meat that has been marinated in a sauce made from soy sauce, sake, mirin, and sugar. The word “teriyaki” comes from the Japanese word “teri,” which means the shine or glaze of the sauce, and “yaki,” which means grilled or broiled. This technique creates a shiny, flavorful coating on the meat, which caramelizes when cooked, adding both flavor and texture.

Traditionally, teriyaki is used to marinate fish, especially salmon, but it has expanded over time to include other proteins like chicken, beef, and even vegetables. The combination of salty soy sauce and the sweetness from sugar or honey gives the teriyaki sauce its signature flavor, making it a popular choice not only in Japan but all around the world.

Using this marinade for chicken burgers is a great way to incorporate the familiar teriyaki flavors into a dish that is both comforting and innovative. Chicken teriyaki is a perfect balance of flavors—rich and savory with just the right amount of sweetness—that works well when paired with fresh toppings like sesame slaw, adding a wonderful contrast to the grilled chicken patty.

Why Choose Ground Chicken?

Ground chicken is an excellent choice for those who want a lighter alternative to beef or pork without compromising on flavor. Unlike beef, which can be greasy and high in fat, ground chicken is lower in calories and fat while still offering a moist and tender texture when cooked properly. It provides the perfect canvas for absorbing the flavors of marinades like teriyaki sauce, making it an ideal protein choice for these burgers.

In addition to being a healthier option, ground chicken is also very versatile. It can be seasoned in a variety of ways and can adapt to different cooking styles and flavors. This makes it a popular choice not only for burgers but also for meatballs, tacos, and stir-fries. By using ground chicken in your teriyaki burger recipe, you are ensuring that you are serving a meal that is both delicious and a bit lighter than its beef counterpart.

The Secret to a Perfect Chicken Burger Patty

The key to making a perfect chicken burger patty is balancing moisture and texture. Ground chicken can often become dry if overcooked, so it’s essential to season the chicken well and mix it gently. Overworking the mixture can lead to tough, dry burgers, so aim to mix just until the ingredients are combined.

Using panko breadcrumbs in the mixture is a great way to help retain moisture and provide some structure to the patty. The breadcrumbs soak up the flavors of the teriyaki sauce and provide the necessary binding to hold the patty together during cooking. Additionally, adding a small amount of garlic powder and salt enhances the flavor profile without overpowering the natural taste of the chicken.

Cooking the patties in a bit of avocado oil over medium heat ensures that the outside becomes golden and slightly crispy while keeping the inside juicy and tender. Always check the internal temperature of the patties with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach a safe 165°F (74°C) for poultry.

Sesame Slaw: The Perfect Sidekick

The sesame slaw topping is one of the most exciting elements of this chicken teriyaki burger. The crunchy texture of the cabbage, combined with the nutty flavor of toasted sesame oil and the tang of rice vinegar, adds a fresh contrast to the rich and savory teriyaki sauce. This slaw can be customized with other ingredients, such as shredded carrots, green onions, or cilantro, to suit your taste preferences.

Sesame slaw provides not only texture but also a touch of lightness to balance the more intense flavors of the burger. The slight sweetness from sugar and acidity from rice vinegar create a perfect harmony with the savory flavors of the chicken patty. It’s a refreshing and crunchy addition that complements the juicy, flavorful burger perfectly.

The Ideal Bun for Your Teriyaki Burger

When it comes to selecting the perfect bun for your chicken teriyaki burger, look for one that is soft yet sturdy enough to hold up to the juicy patty and flavorful slaw. A brioche bun is a popular choice for its slightly sweet flavor and soft, fluffy texture. The rich, buttery taste of brioche pairs wonderfully with the savory teriyaki burger, while its structure holds up well to the toppings without falling apart.

Toasting the buns lightly before assembling the burgers is important, as it helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy when the teriyaki sauce or slaw is added. A lightly toasted bun also adds a bit of crunch and extra flavor to the overall burger experience.

How to Elevate Your Chicken Teriyaki Burger

While the basic components of the chicken teriyaki burger are already delicious, there are several ways to elevate this dish even further. Consider adding extra toppings to complement the flavors, such as sliced avocado, a fried egg, or a drizzle of spicy mayo. These additions can enhance the overall taste and provide an extra layer of richness or heat.

You can also experiment with different types of buns or even wrap the burger in lettuce leaves for a low-carb alternative. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a few slices of pickled jalapeños or a dash of sriracha sauce can give the burger a nice kick. There is no shortage of creative ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences.

Pairing Your Chicken Teriyaki Burger

When it comes to side dishes, a Chicken Teriyaki Burger pairs well with a variety of options. For a lighter meal, you can serve the burger with a side of sweet potato fries or a simple green salad. The sweetness of the sweet potatoes complements the teriyaki sauce, while a salad provides a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the burger.

If you’re looking to make this meal a bit more indulgent, you could serve it with classic French fries or crispy onion rings. The crispy texture of the fries or rings pairs beautifully with the soft bun and juicy chicken patty. For beverages, a cold beer or a refreshing iced tea would be the perfect accompaniment to balance the flavors of the burger.

Conclusion

Chicken Teriyaki Burgers are a delicious and unique twist on traditional burgers, offering a light yet flavorful meal that can be customized in endless ways. The combination of tender chicken, savory teriyaki sauce, refreshing sesame slaw, and a perfectly toasted bun creates a satisfying and memorable dining experience. Whether you’re hosting a casual dinner with friends or preparing a weeknight meal for the family, these burgers are sure to be a hit.

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