These chicken burgers with zucchini and fresh corn are super tasty and healthy! They are juicy, packed with flavor, and perfect for summer grilling.
I love how colorful the tomato cucumber relish is—it adds a fresh twist. Serve them at your next BBQ, and watch everyone reach for seconds! 🍔😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps the burgers lean and juicy. If you prefer, turkey or pork can be good substitutes. Just be cautious with the fat content based on your choice.
Zucchini: This veggie adds moisture and nutrition. You could use yellow squash or carrots if zucchini isn’t available. Just remember to squeeze out excess moisture.
Fresh Corn: Fresh corn gives great sweetness and crunch. Frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe as well; just thaw and drain before using. For convenience, canned corn is another option but might be softer.
Breadcrumbs: Whole wheat breadcrumbs are my go-to for added texture and fiber. If gluten-free is a concern, try almond flour or GF breadcrumbs instead.
Cherry Tomatoes: These provide a burst of flavor in the relish. Any small tomato will work, like grape or even chopped larger varieties for similar taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Burgers Hold Together?
Binding agents are essential for keeping the burgers intact while cooking. Here’s how to ensure they hold together well:
- Mix the ingredients gently to avoid overworking the meat and making it tough.
- Using an egg acts as a good binder; don’t skip it! If you want an egg substitute, try flaxseed meal mixed with water.
- Squeezing out excess moisture from zucchini is key; too much water will make the mix too wet.
- Chilling the shaped patties in the fridge for 30 minutes can help them firm up before cooking.
Follow these tips, and your burgers will turn out perfectly! Enjoy your cooking!
Chicken, Zucchini, and Fresh Corn Burgers with Tomato Cucumber Relish
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 medium zucchini, grated and excess moisture squeezed out
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (can use frozen if necessary)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs (preferably whole wheat)
- 1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup green onion, chopped
- 1 egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for frying
For the Tomato Cucumber Relish:
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 medium cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful meal will take about 20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and mix them together. You’ll need an additional 15 minutes for cooking, bringing your total to about 35 minutes from start to finish. Quick and tasty for any meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Relish:
Start by making the tomato cucumber relish. In a medium bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and chopped parsley. Drizzle everything with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper, then toss gently to combine. Set this aside to let the flavors meld together while you prepare the burgers.
2. Making the Chicken Burgers:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, grated zucchini, corn kernels, breadcrumbs, finely diced red bell pepper, chopped green onion, egg, minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is combined nicely, but make sure not to overmix so your burgers stay tender.
3. Form and Cook the Burgers:
Divide the chicken mixture into equal portions, shaping each into a patty (you’ll have about 4-6 burgers depending on how big you want them). Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add a little olive oil. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the patties into the skillet. Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes or until they turn golden brown and are cooked through (they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F/75°C).
4. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the burgers are cooked, serve them warm topped with the tomato cucumber relish or on the side. They can be enjoyed on a bun or with greens for a lighter option. Enjoy your delicious and refreshing meal!
Can I Use Frozen Corn Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen corn works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to thaw it first and drain any excess water before adding it to the burger mixture to prevent sogginess.
How Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
To make these burgers gluten-free, simply substitute the whole wheat breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats. Additionally, check to ensure your ground chicken and any other ingredients are certified gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of olive oil if needed for moisture. You can also microwave them for about 30-60 seconds, but be careful not to dry them out.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in the Relish?
Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies. Diced bell peppers, radishes, or even avocados can be great additions to the relish. Just make sure to adjust the seasoning to your taste!
