Chimichurri Chicken Burgers

 Ingredients:

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 shallot, minced
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your spice preference)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Chicken Patties:

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground chicken
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/4 cup chimichurri sauce (from above)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 4 hamburger buns
  • Lettuce leaves, tomato slices, and red onion slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

  1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:

    • In a bowl, combine the finely chopped fresh parsley, finely chopped fresh cilantro, minced garlic, minced shallot, red wine vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, and red pepper flakes.
    • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
    • Mix well, cover, and refrigerate the chimichurri sauce while you prepare the chicken patties.

For the Chicken Patties:

  1. Make the Chicken Mixture:

    • In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, and 1/4 cup of the chimichurri sauce.
    • Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
    • Mix until all the ingredients are well combined.
  2. Form the Patties:

    • Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions.
    • Shape each portion into a patty, about the same size as your hamburger buns.
    • Use your thumb to make a slight indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
  3. Cook the Patties:

    • Preheat your grill or stovetop skillet over medium-high heat.
    • Cook the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until they are cooked through and have an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
    • If using a grill, you can also lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill during the last minute of cooking.
  4. Assemble the Burgers:

    • Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each hamburger bun.
    • Add a chicken patty on top of the lettuce.
    • Spoon some additional chimichurri sauce over the chicken patty.
    • Add tomato slices and red onion slices if desired.
    • Top with the other half of the hamburger bun.
  5. Serve:

    • Serve your Chimichurri Chicken Burgers immediately, optionally with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping.

These Chimichurri Chicken Burgers are bursting with fresh and zesty flavors, making them a delicious alternative to traditional beef burgers. Enjoy this South American-inspired twist on a classic favorite!