Description
The Healthiest Chicken & Zucchini Bun Burger with Cream Cheese Filling offers a tasty twist on traditional burgers by using zucchini buns and a creamy filling.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 small onion, finely minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 medium zucchini
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup almond flour
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Olive oil or cooking spray
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Fresh lettuce leaves (optional)
- Sliced tomatoes (optional)
- Avocado slices (optional)
- Red onion rings (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the zucchini: Wash the zucchini and grate them using a box grater. Place the grated zucchini in a clean kitchen towel and squeeze out as much moisture as possible.
- Make the zucchini bun mixture: Transfer the zucchini to a bowl. Add the egg, Parmesan, almond flour, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until well combined.
- Shape the buns: Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round, flat patty, approximately the size of a burger bun.
- Cook the zucchini buns: Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat with olive oil. Cook the zucchini patties for 3–4 minutes per side until golden brown and firm. Transfer to a plate.
- Prepare the chicken: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, onion, garlic, paprika, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently.
- Shape the chicken patties: Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into burger patties.
- Cook the chicken burgers: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the chicken patties for approximately 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Make the cream cheese filling: In a small bowl, combine softened cream cheese, mozzarella, parsley, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the burgers: Place one zucchini bun on a plate. Spread a generous layer of cream cheese filling over it. Add a chicken patty and any optional toppings.
- Complete the burger: Spread another layer of cream cheese filling over the chicken if desired, then cover with a second zucchini bun.
- Serve: Repeat with the remaining ingredients. Serve immediately while the chicken is warm and the cream cheese filling is creamy.
Notes
- Squeeze the zucchini thoroughly to prevent soggy buns.
- Make the zucchini patties slightly thicker so they hold their shape.
- Use a nonstick skillet to prevent sticking.
- Let the cream cheese soften at room temperature for easier mixing.
- For extra flavor, add a little smoked paprika or chili flakes to the chicken mixture.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 350–420
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 8–12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30–35g
- Cholesterol: 80mg