Get ready to savor a delightful twist on the classic burger with these Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Smash Burgers. Juicy, crispy, and packed with the tangy flavor of dill pickles, these smash burgers are perfect for summer cookouts and quick weeknight dinners. Follow this easy recipe for a satisfying comfort food experience that will please the whole family. The combination of tender chicken and sharp, zesty dill pickles creates a flavor profile that is simply irresistible, making these burgers a highlight at any gathering.

Ingredients

• For the Chicken Patties:
  • 1 pound ground chicken – For optimal flavor, choose organic or free-range chicken if possible, as it tends to be fresher and more flavorful.
  • 1 teaspoon salt – Use kosher salt for a more balanced seasoning.
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper – Freshly ground black pepper enhances the overall taste.
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder – This adds a robust flavor to the chicken patties.
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder – Use granulated onion for a smoother blend in the meat mixture.
• For the Homemade Dill Pickle Sauce:
  • ½ cup mayonnaise – For a creamier texture, consider using a high-quality mayonnaise or making your own.
  • ¼ cup dill pickles, finely chopped – Use crispy dill pickles for added texture and flavor; bread and butter pickles can also be used for a sweeter touch.
  • 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice – This adds tang and moisture; feel free to adjust the amount to taste.
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a subtle kick; you can substitute with yellow mustard if preferred.
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For an extra layer of flavor; fresh minced garlic can be substituted for a bolder taste.
• For Assembly:
  • 4 hamburger buns – Choose brioche or whole wheat buns for added flavor and texture.
  • 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional) – Sharp cheddar pairs beautifully with the tangy pickle sauce and chicken.
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce – Iceberg or romaine works well for crunch; consider using spinach for a nutritional boost.
  • 1 large tomato, sliced – Fresh vine-ripened tomatoes will provide the best flavor.
  • Additional dill pickles for topping – Slices or spears can be added based on preference.

Steps / Instructions

1. Prepare the Dill Pickle Sauce: In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped dill pickles, dill pickle juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder. Mix well until smooth and fully combined. Set aside in the refrigerator to let the flavors meld, ideally for at least 30 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the dill pickle sauce to develop a richer flavor that complements the burgers perfectly.
2. Prepare the Chicken Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix gently but thoroughly to combine, being careful not to overwork the meat, as this can lead to tough patties. The mixture should be uniform but still have some texture, which will contribute to the overall mouthfeel of the burger.
3. Shape the Patties: Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it slightly to create a patty that is uniform in thickness. The patties should be about ½ inch thick for even cooking and optimal juiciness, ensuring they hold their shape during cooking.
4. Heat the Skillet: Preheat a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of oil to coat the bottom of the skillet, which will help achieve a good sear on the patties and prevent sticking.
5. Cook the Patties: Place the patties in the skillet, ensuring there is enough space between them to cook evenly. Use a spatula to smash each patty down to about ¾ inch thickness, which increases the surface area for a delicious crust. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges are golden brown and the bottom is well-seared.
6. Flip and Add Cheese: Carefully flip the patties and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). If using cheese, place a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking to allow it to melt beautifully over the chicken.
7. Toast the Buns: While the patties are cooking, toast the hamburger buns in another skillet or on the grill until golden brown. This step not only adds flavor but also helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy once the burger is assembled.
8. Assemble the Burgers: On the bottom half of each toasted bun, layer a generous amount of shredded lettuce, a cooked chicken patty, a slice of fresh tomato, and dill pickles. Drizzle a generous amount of homemade dill pickle sauce on top for added flavor, then cap with the top bun. Press down gently to ensure all ingredients meld together.

Tips & Tricks

• Chicken Quality: For the best flavor and moisture, opt for ground chicken that contains some fat, as it will result in juicier patties. You can also use ground turkey as a substitute if you prefer a leaner option, but be aware that this may yield slightly drier burgers.
• Make-Ahead: Prepare the dill pickle sauce a day in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will deepen overnight, making it even more flavorful when you’re ready to assemble your burgers.
• Avoid Overworking the Meat: When mixing the chicken patties, handle the meat gently to keep the burgers tender. If you work the meat too much, the patties can become dense and tough, which is not ideal for a juicy burger.
• Freezing Option: If you have leftover patties, they freeze well. Place them in an airtight container or freezer bag and store them for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking to maintain the best texture and flavor upon reheating.
• Common Mistakes: Ensure not to press down on the patties while they are cooking; this can squeeze out the juices, resulting in a dry burger. Instead, let them cook undisturbed to develop a nice crust.

Variations

• Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for a spicy kick. You can also use a spicy mayonnaise as part of your sauce for an extra layer of heat.
• Herb-Infused: Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro into the chicken mixture for added flavor. Fresh herbs can elevate the overall taste and make the burgers more aromatic.
• Vegan Option: Substitute ground chicken with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegan mayo for the sauce. This makes the recipe suitable for a wider range of dietary preferences.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free buns to accommodate dietary restrictions, and ensure all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free. Always check ingredient labels to avoid any hidden gluten.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Smash Burgers with a side of crispy sweet potato fries or a fresh coleslaw for a perfect meal. To enhance the presentation, garnish the burgers with additional dill pickles and serve with a refreshing lemonade or iced tea. These burgers are not just a delightful dinner option; they also make an excellent choice for outdoor grilling recipes during summer cookouts. You can learn more about this topic. The vibrant colors and textures of the toppings make for an Instagram-worthy dish that will impress your guests and family alike.

Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Smash Burgers

★★★★★ 5 from 1 vote

Course: Dinner Cuisine: American Difficulty: Easy

🍽️

Servings

4

⏱️

Prep Time

30 min

🍳

Cook Time

15 min

🔥

Calories

400 kcal

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Get ready to savor a delightful twist on the classic burger with these Easy Dill Pickle Chicken Smash Burgers. Juicy, crispy, and packed with the tangy flavor of dill pickles, these smash burgers are perfect for summer cookouts and quick weeknight dinners.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound ground chicken
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• ¼ cup dill pickles, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon dill pickle juice
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices of cheddar cheese (optional)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 large tomato, sliced
• Additional dill pickles for topping

Directions

1.

In a medium bowl, combine mayonnaise, chopped dill pickles, dill pickle juice, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder for the dill pickle sauce. Mix well until smooth and set aside in the refrigerator.

2.

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder for the chicken patties. Mix gently but thoroughly.

3.

Divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions and shape into patties.

4.

Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of oil to coat the bottom.

5.

Cook the patties in the skillet, smashing each down to about ¾ inch thickness, for 3-4 minutes until golden brown.

6.

Flip the patties and cook for another 2-3 minutes until fully cooked through, adding cheese during the last minute if desired.

7.

Toast the buns until golden brown.

8.

Assemble the burgers by layering shredded lettuce, a chicken patty, a slice of tomato, dill pickles, and dill pickle sauce on the bottom half of each bun before topping with the top bun.

Nutrition Facts