Name: Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: 2 ounces feta cheese; 4 ounces cream cheese; 1 large garlic clove, minced; ¼ teaspoon fresh ground pepper; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; 1 cup Greek yogurt (2%); 2 large garlic cloves, minced; ¼ cup English cucumber, finely chopped (about 3 ½ ounces); 2 tablespoons dill, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (½ a lemon, juiced); 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil; ¼ teaspoon salt; Dash of freshly ground pepper; 10 ounces frozen chopped spinach, thawed and thoroughly squeezed to remove all liquid; 1 pound ground chicken, 93% lean; 4 ounces feta cheese, finely crumbled; ¼ cup almond meal or breadcrumbs; 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon pepper; 1 teaspoon oregano; 4 brioche buns (see note for low carb / low cal / keto option); 1 large ripe tomato, sliced; Green leaf lettuce, washed and dried; English cucumber, thinly sliced; Red onion, thinly sliced

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 33 reviews

If you are craving a juicy and vibrant meal full of Mediterranean charm, you will absolutely adore this Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach Recipe. It combines tender ground chicken with the creamy tang of feta cheese and the earthy freshness of spinach, all nestled inside soft brioche buns enhanced with luscious spreads and crisp toppings. This delightful burger bursts with flavor and texture, making it a perfect choice for a satisfying lunch or dinner that feels both nutritious and indulgent. Whether you’re looking to impress friends or treat yourself, this recipe brings a refreshing twist to your usual burger lineup.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white plate holds three round grilled patties with dark grill marks on top. On the left side of the plate, there is a bed of bright green lettuce leaves, with a small bunch of red cherry tomatoes on top of the lettuce. Below the tomatoes, pale green cucumber slices are neatly arranged in a small stack. In the background, a white bowl with a green herb sauce sits to the top right, and thin purple onion rings are placed on the white marbled surface near the bottom right. A gray textured cloth is partly seen on the left side of the image. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Don’t let the ingredients list intimidate you — each component is simple, straightforward, and essential for crafting the delicious layers of flavor and texture in this recipe. From creamy cheeses to fresh herbs and wholesome greens, these ingredients work harmoniously to create a chicken burger that is bursting with character.

Feta cheese: Adds a tangy, salty punch that beautifully complements the spinach and chicken.
Cream cheese: Creates a smooth, rich feta spread that melts into every bite.
Garlic cloves: Impart a warm, aromatic depth to both spreads and the chicken patties.
Fresh ground pepper: Provides a subtle spice that ties all the flavors together.
Lemon juice: Brings brightness and a zesty lift to the feta spread and tzatziki sauce.
Greek yogurt: Forms the creamy base of the tzatziki sauce, adding tang and richness.
English cucumber: Offers a crisp crunch and freshness inside the tzatziki and burger toppings.
Dill: Infuses the tzatziki with a fragrant herbal note that is classic and refreshing.
Frozen chopped spinach: The unsung hero, delivering moisture, nutrients, and flavor depth when well pressed.
Ground chicken (93% lean): Keeps the burger light yet juicy and packed with mild flavor perfect for absorbing spices.
Almond meal or breadcrumbs: Helps bind the patties so they hold together during grilling.
Yellow onion: Adds subtle sweetness and texture inside the patties.
Brioche buns: Soft, slightly sweet, the perfect vehicle for holding this bounty of goodness.
Tomato, lettuce, cucumber, and red onion: Classic fresh toppings that add crunch and color.

How to Make Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Feta Cheese Spread

Begin by combining the feta cheese, cream cheese, minced garlic, fresh ground pepper, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Microwave for 30 seconds, then stir to smooth out any lumps. If needed, heat for another 15-30 seconds until creamy and spreadable. This luscious spread can also be whipped up in a food processor for a silky texture. Making it a day ahead helps flavors mingle beautifully, making assembly quick and easy when you’re ready to cook.

Step 2: Make the Tzatziki Sauce

Next, mix together Greek yogurt, minced garlic, finely chopped English cucumber, dill, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until you have a beautifully fresh and tangy tzatziki sauce. This classic sauce brings a cooling balance to the burger’s savory elements. Chill it in the fridge and let the flavors marry—this can also be prepped a day in advance.

Step 3: Prepare the Chicken Burgers

Thaw the frozen chopped spinach thoroughly, then squeeze out every bit of liquid to avoid soggy patties. In a large mixing bowl, combine the pressed spinach with ground chicken, crumbled feta, almond meal (or breadcrumbs), finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and oregano. Mix everything gently but thoroughly to incorporate all the flavors evenly. Shape the mixture into four evenly sized patties for consistent cooking.

Step 4: Grill to Perfection

Preheat your grill to 450 degrees. If you enjoy a smoky flavor, use Mesquite smoke chips in a smoker box over the heat. Spray your burgers with grilling spray on both sides to prevent sticking, then grill the patties for 5 minutes on one side. Flip and continue grilling for another 3 to 5 minutes until the internal temperature hits a safe 165 degrees. The aroma during grilling will have you excited for the first bite!

Step 5: Assemble Your Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach Recipe

Spread a generous layer of the creamy feta cheese spread on the inside of each brioche bun. Place the warm chicken patty on the bun, then add your fresh tomato, crunchy lettuce, sliced cucumber, and red onion. Don’t forget a good spoonful of the vibrant tzatziki sauce for cooling contrast. For a lighter option, try serving the burger as a lettuce wrap or tucked inside a pita—the flavors work wonderfully in any form!

How to Serve Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach Recipe

The image shows four grilled patties with a mix of green herbs visible inside them, each with dark grill marks on the top surface, stacked slightly overlapping on a white plate. The patties rest on a bed of bright green lettuce leaves and are accompanied by thin slices of light green cucumber in the bottom left corner. To the right and slightly behind the patties, there are some green dill sprigs for garnish. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, and a spoon is partially visible at the top right corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Simple garnishes like fresh dill sprigs or a few lemon wedges on the side add a pop of color and a touch of extra brightness, elevating the presentation and flavor of the chicken burger with feta cheese and spinach recipe. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or chili flakes can also bring a little kick for those who love spice.

Side Dishes

Pairing this burger with crisp oven-baked sweet potato fries or a fresh Greek salad complements the Mediterranean tones perfectly. A light quinoa salad with lemon and olives or a side of charred vegetables also enhances the wholesome, fresh vibe of the meal without overpowering the burger’s wonderful flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve sliders using smaller buns at a casual gathering or cut the burgers into cubes to create Mediterranean-inspired kebabs with tzatziki dipping sauce. You can also layer the spread, patty, and toppings over slices of toasted artisan bread for an open-faced sandwich variation that’s as delicious as it is eye-catching.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover chicken burgers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making them perfect for a quick lunch or dinner the next day.

Freezing

To freeze, place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and freeze until solid. Transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment to avoid sticking. Frozen patties maintain their quality for up to 3 months, ready to be grilled fresh whenever you crave this Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach Recipe.

Reheating

Reheat cooked burgers gently in a skillet over medium heat or in an oven preheated to 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Avoid the microwave if possible to keep the patties juicy and avoid rubberiness. Toast the buns slightly before assembling again with fresh toppings and sauce.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Yes, you can substitute fresh spinach, but you will need about twice the amount since fresh spinach cooks down significantly. Be sure to sauté it lightly and squeeze out all excess moisture before mixing it into the patties to prevent sogginess.

Is almond meal necessary or can I use other binders?

Almond meal is used for a slightly nutty flavor and gluten-free option, but you can easily replace it with regular breadcrumbs or panko. Just make sure to adjust the quantity slightly if the mixture feels too wet or dry.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

To make this dairy-free, you can substitute the feta and cream cheese with dairy-free cheese alternatives or omit the spread. For the tzatziki, use a coconut-based or almond milk yogurt to keep it creamy without dairy.

How do I know when the chicken burgers are fully cooked?

The safest way is to check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Chicken should reach 165 degrees Fahrenheit at the center. The patties should be firm to the touch and no longer pink inside.

Can I prepare the patties ahead of time and freeze them before grilling?

Absolutely! Shape the patties and freeze them raw, then grill from frozen by adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. This makes it super convenient for a quick meal any day of the week.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking to shake up your burger routine with something fresh, vibrant, and packed with incredible flavor, the Chicken Burger with Feta Cheese and Spinach Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet special enough to serve to guests, delivering juicy, creamy, and wholesome satisfaction with every bite. Give this recipe a try—it might just become your new favorite lunch or dinner obsession!