Chili Lime Chicken Burgers with Avocado Salsa are a fresh, flavorful, and juicy twist on traditional burgers. Packed with zesty lime, smoky chili spices, and lean ground chicken, these burgers are topped with a creamy avocado salsa for the perfect balance of heat and coolness. They’re a healthier, vibrant alternative to beef burgers and perfect for grilling season, meal prep, or a quick weeknight dinner!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Bold and zesty flavors – Chili and lime add a delicious kick to the juicy chicken patties.
- Healthy and protein-packed – Made with lean ground chicken for a lighter burger option.
- Easy to make – Simple ingredients and quick preparation.
- Perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking – Cook them indoors or outdoors with ease.
- Fresh and creamy topping – The avocado salsa adds a cool, creamy contrast to the spicy burger.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the Chicken Burgers:
- Ground chicken
- Lime zest and juice
- Garlic, minced
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Smoked paprika
- Onion powder
- Salt and black pepper
- Egg (to bind)
- Panko breadcrumbs (for texture)
- Olive oil (for cooking)
For the Avocado Salsa:
- Avocados, diced
- Cherry tomatoes, chopped
- Red onion, finely diced
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
- Jalapeño, minced (optional for spice)
- Lime juice
- Salt and black pepper
For Serving:
- Burger buns or lettuce wraps
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced red onion (optional)
- Extra lime wedges
Directions
Make the Chicken Burgers:
- Mix the ingredients – In a bowl, combine ground chicken, lime zest, lime juice, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, black pepper, egg, and panko breadcrumbs. Mix until just combined.
- Form the patties – Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized burger patties.
- Cook the burgers –
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Cook the burgers for about 5-6 minutes per side, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Stovetop: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
- Rest the burgers – Remove from heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes.
Make the Avocado Salsa:
- In a bowl, combine diced avocados, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Toss gently.
Assemble the Burgers:
- Toast the burger buns if desired.
- Place lettuce on the bottom bun, followed by the chicken patty.
- Spoon a generous amount of avocado salsa over the burger.
- Add extra toppings like red onion slices or more cilantro if desired.
- Serve immediately with lime wedges on the side.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4 burgers
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
Variations
- Spicy Version – Add extra jalapeño or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for more heat.
- Cheesy Option – Melt pepper jack or cheddar cheese over the patties.
- Keto-Friendly – Serve in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Turkey Burgers – Swap ground chicken for ground turkey for a similar lean option.
- Extra Crunch – Top with sliced radishes or pickled onions.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration – Store cooked burger patties in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing – Freeze uncooked patties with parchment paper between them for up to 2 months.
- Reheating – Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
FAQs
Can I make these burgers without breadcrumbs?
Yes! You can use almond flour for a gluten-free option or skip the binder for a firmer patty.
How do I prevent chicken burgers from drying out?
Adding lime juice, breadcrumbs, and an egg helps keep them moist. Avoid overcooking.
Can I use pre-made guacamole instead of avocado salsa?
Yes! If you’re short on time, guacamole works as a great substitute.
What can I serve with these burgers?
Try sweet potato fries, a side salad, grilled corn, or coleslaw.
Can I use store-bought salsa?
Yes, but fresh avocado salsa enhances the flavor and freshness of the dish.
How do I make these burgers ahead of time?
Prepare the patties in advance and refrigerate them until ready to cook. The avocado salsa is best made fresh.
Can I cook these burgers in an air fryer?
Yes! Air fry at 375°F for 12-15 minutes, flipping halfway through.
What’s the best way to toast burger buns?
Brush them lightly with butter or olive oil and toast in a pan or grill for about 1 minute.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes! Ground turkey or beef works well with the same seasonings.
How do I keep avocado salsa from browning?
Squeeze extra lime juice over the salsa and cover tightly with plastic wrap.
Conclusion
Chili Lime Chicken Burgers with Avocado Salsa are a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional burgers. With juicy, spiced chicken patties and a creamy, citrusy avocado salsa, this dish is packed with bold flavors. Perfect for grilling season, meal prep, or a quick and healthy weeknight dinner, these burgers are sure to become a favorite in your home!
PrintChili Lime Chicken Burgers with Avocado Salsa
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Chili Lime Chicken Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and packed with zesty lime and smoky chili spices! Topped with a fresh and creamy avocado salsa, these burgers are the perfect balance of spice, citrus, and creaminess. Whether you serve them on a bun or lettuce wrap, they make a delicious and healthy meal!
Ingredients
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Avocado Salsa:
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- Burger buns or lettuce wraps
- Sliced jalapeños (optional)
- Extra lime wedges
Instructions
Make the Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, mix together ground chicken, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, lime zest, lime juice, and cilantro.
Form the mixture into 4 burger patties.
Cook the Burgers:
Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat (or preheat a grill to medium-high).
Cook the burgers for 5–6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Make the Avocado Salsa:
In a small bowl, combine diced avocado, cherry tomatoes, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
Gently mix and set aside.
Assemble the Burgers:
Place the cooked chili lime chicken burger on a bun (or lettuce wrap).
Top with avocado salsa and optional sliced jalapeños for extra spice.
Serve with lime wedges on the side.
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