There’s something truly special about a summer evening BBQ, where the sizzle of juicy patties fills the air and laughter dances between bites. My inspiration for these Maple Mustard Apple Chicken Burgers came from a delightful backyard gathering with friends, where I wanted to shake up our usual fare while keeping flavors vibrant and fresh. The first bite reveals a tender chicken patty packed with sweet apple chunks, perfectly balanced by a zesty maple mustard sauce that surprises and delights.
These burgers aren’t just delicious; they’re also a healthier twist on classic favorites, making them a perfect option for those who crave the taste of home without the heaviness of takeout. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit dietary preferences, whether you’re opting for gluten-free buns or swapping out the cheese. So gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and let’s create some unforgettable summer memories with these mouthwatering chicken burgers!
Why are Maple Mustard Apple Chicken Burgers unique?
Bold flavors come together in a delightful harmony, elevating your burger game beyond the ordinary. Healthier option: These burgers provide a savory taste while being lighter than typical fast food. Quick and easy: From mixing the sauce to grilling, this recipe is designed for busy cooks. Customizable ingredients let you swap and adapt to your dietary needs, ensuring everyone can enjoy them. Perfect for gatherings: Bring a fun twist to BBQs and impress friends with these unexpected yet delicious patties! Did you know about other healthy summer recipes that maintain taste without the guilt?
Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers Ingredients
• Unleash the flavor with every bite!
For the Burger Mixture
- Ground Chicken – A leaner protein option that keeps the burgers juicy; ground turkey is a great substitute.
- Bacon – Adds savory richness; try turkey bacon for a lighter version.
- Red Onion – Offers a mild sweetness; swap with yellow or white onions if needed.
- Garlic – Fresh garlic enhances flavor, but garlic powder works in a pinch.
- Apple (Chopped) – Sweetness and crunch boost texture; Honeycrisp or Fuji apples shine here.
- Dried Sage – Earthy depth for your burgers; use poultry seasoning if you don’t have sage.
- Panko Bread Crumbs – Ensures your patties hold together; regular bread crumbs can be used instead.
For the Sauce
- Dijon Mustard – Adds zesty tang; yellow mustard is a suitable alternative.
- Maple Syrup – Infuses sweetness to the sauce; honey can work instead.
- Mayonnaise – Creamy consistency for the sauce; Greek yogurt offers a lighter option.
For Assembly & Toppings
- Brioche Buns – Soft and delightful; choose whole grain or gluten-free buns for variety.
- Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts beautifully on your burgers; cheddar or smoked gouda offer tasty alternatives.
- Lettuce – Crisp freshness on top; any leafy green will do.
Optional Extras
- Parsley (Fresh, Minced) – Fresh herbiness to brighten your burgers; cilantro or thyme can replace it.
- Apple Juice – Add moisture and subtle sweetness; chicken broth or apple cider can be used as substitutes.
Get ready to dive into flavor-packed Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers that are sure to impress your taste buds!
How to Make Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers
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Prepare the Sauce: Mix together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and mayonnaise in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers to let the flavors meld.
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Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, add chopped bacon and cook until crispy. Reserve about a teaspoon of the delicious bacon grease for later use.
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Sauté Vegetables: In the same skillet with the reserved bacon grease, sauté minced red onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper and cook for about 2 minutes until tender and fragrant.
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Deglaze and Combine: Pour in the apple juice to deglaze the pan, scraping up any delicious bits. Stir in the cooked bacon, chopped apple, and minced parsley. Allow to cook until the apple softens, about 3-4 minutes.
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Mix Chicken Patties: In a large mixing bowl, combine the panko bread crumbs, ground chicken, and the apple mixture. Gently mix until well incorporated, then form into patties and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes to help them hold together.
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Grill Patties: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the patties for 6-7 minutes on one side, seasoning with salt. Flip them over and cook an additional 6-8 minutes until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Add cheese on top during the last minute of cooking to melt.
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Assemble Burgers: Toast the brioche buns until golden brown. Spread the sauce on the bottom bun, place the patty on top, and finish with lettuce and a slice of red onion.
Optional: Serve with sweet potato fries to complete the meal!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Maple Mustard Apple Chicken Burgers Variations
Feel free to experiment and make these burgers your own with any of these delightful twists!
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Turkey Swap: Use ground turkey instead of chicken for a lighter alternative without compromising flavor. It’s a great option for those watching their fat intake!
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Veggie Delight: Substitute ground chicken for your favorite plant-based protein like chickpea or lentil mix, making it suitable for vegetarians and adding a new flavor profile.
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the patty mixture for a delicious heat that elevates the flavor experience.
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Herb Infusion: Incorporate fresh herbs like basil or dill into the chicken mixture for a unique aroma and taste that brightens each bite.
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Cheese Alternatives: Try feta or goat cheese for a tangy flavor twist, or omit cheese entirely for a dairy-free option.
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BBQ Sauce Twist: Mix in your favorite barbecue sauce with the ground chicken for a smoky and tangy flavor that transforms the basic burger into something truly special.
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Nutty Crunch: Add chopped nuts such as walnuts or pecans to the mixture for additional texture and a crunchy contrast to the softness of the burger.
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Crunchy Veggies: Incorporate shredded carrots or zucchini into the patties for an added nutritional boost and a slight sweetness that pairs beautifully with the apple.
These variations will not only keep your taste buds dancing but also encourage creativity in your cooking, making each burger experience unique and delightful!
Make Ahead Options
These Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the flavorful apple and bacon mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the bacon and sauté the onions and garlic, then stir in the apple and let it cool before refrigerating. To save even more time, form the patties and keep them in the fridge for up to 30 minutes or freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, just grill the patties until they reach 165°F, melt the cheese on top, and assemble with the prepared sauce and fresh toppings. Enjoy a delicious homemade burger with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers
- Chill Patties: Resting the burger mixture in the fridge ensures they hold together while cooking. Patience leads to a perfect texture!
- Grill with Care: Maintain medium-high heat and avoid flipping too often. This helps the patties cook evenly and achieve that all-important 165°F internal temperature.
- Try Different Toppings: Experiment with fresh toppings like avocado or grilled pineapple to add an exciting twist to your Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers!
- Mind the Cheese: Add cheese only in the last minute of grilling, allowing it time to melt without burning.
- Make Ahead: Prepare patties in advance and freeze them for busy weeknights. They defrost beautifully and are just as delicious!
What to Serve with Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers?
These vibrant chicken burgers are the star of your summer feast, and pairing them with delightful sides will elevate your meal to new heights!
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Sweet Potato Fries: These crispy fries add a touch of sweetness that beautifully complements the savory flavors of the burgers. Plus, they bring a satisfying crunch to every bite!
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light, refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a bright contrast, balancing the richness of the burger.
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Coleslaw: Creamy coleslaw brings a crunchy texture along with a hint of sweetness, working harmoniously with the apple in your chicken burgers.
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Grilled Corn on the Cob: The smoky sweetness of charred corn brings a delightful summer vibe, making it a perfect side for your BBQ spread.
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Crispy Pickles: Tangy and crunchy pickles add an authentic touch; they enhance the overall flavor profile and provide a lovely bite between burger bites.
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Apple Cider Lemonade: Refreshing and lightly sweetened, this drink echoes the apple theme of the burgers and is an invigorating thirst-quencher on a warm day.
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Baked Beans: A hearty side with a sweet and savory flavor complements the maple notes in the burgers, creating a comforting, homey meal.
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Fruit Salad: Bright, colorful fruit salad adds a sweet and juicy element, perfect for cleansing the palate between bites of bold flavors.
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Cheese and Charcuterie Platter: Offer guests a variety of cheeses, cured meats, and nuts for a delightful grazing experience before the main event. It’s always a hit at gatherings!
With these delicious pairings, your Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers will shine even brighter at your next gathering!
Storage Tips for Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers
Fridge: Store cooked burgers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Reheat in the microwave or skillet until heated through.
Freezer: Freeze individual patties wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then placed in a freezer bag, for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: For best results, reheat burgers in the oven at 350°F for about 10–15 minutes to keep them moist and fully heated.
Leftover Sauce: Any extra maple mustard sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to a week in a sealed container, perfect for dipping or drizzling on future meals!
Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers Recipe FAQs
What type of apples should I use in the burgers?
Aim for sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji to bring out the best flavor and texture in your Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers. These varieties not only offer a delightful sweetness but also hold up well during cooking, providing the perfect crunch!
How long can I store cooked burgers in the fridge?
Absolutely! Cooked Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. To reheat, just pop them in the microwave or skillet until they’re heated through and ready to enjoy again!
Can I freeze these chicken burgers?
Yes, you can! I often freeze individual patties wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw them in the fridge overnight, then you can reheat them on the grill or in the oven.
What should I do if my patties fall apart while grilling?
Very common! If your Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers are crumbling, try refrigerating the patties for longer before cooking, which helps them firm up. You might also add an extra tablespoon of panko or a bit more apple juice to bind the mixture together better.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it can be! To make Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers gluten-free, simply choose gluten-free bread crumbs and buns. Additionally, always double-check your sauce ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs!
How can I make these burgers more flavorful?
For an extra punch, consider adding spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for a kick. Fresh herbs like basil or cilantro can also elevate the flavor profile! Plus, feel free to experiment with different toppings like grilled pineapple or avocado to create unique variations.
Maple Mustard Apple Chicken Burgers for a Flavorful Twist
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Mix together Dijon mustard, maple syrup, and mayonnaise in a bowl. Cover and refrigerate while you prepare the burgers.
- In a skillet over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Reserve about a teaspoon of bacon grease.
- In the same skillet, sauté minced red onion and garlic in reserved bacon grease until tender, about 2 minutes.
- Deglaze the pan with apple juice, scraping up bits, then stir in cooked bacon, chopped apple, and parsley. Cook until apple softens, about 3-4 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine panko, ground chicken, and apple mixture. Form into patties and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat and cook patties for 6-7 minutes per side until they reach 165°F, adding cheese during the last minute.
- Toast brioche buns, spread sauce on the bottom bun, place patty, and top with lettuce and red onion.