20 Minute Grilled BBQ Chicken Burgers

Get ready to fire up the grill and sink your teeth into these mouthwatering Grilled BBQ Chicken Burgers with homemade slaw! Packed with juicy ground chicken infused with a medley of savory spices and tangy BBQ sauce, these burgers are the perfect meal to make for warmer weather.

Ground chicken takes center stage in this easy burger recipe, offering a lighter and leaner option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. If you loved my Pulled BBQ Chicken Burgers, you’re gonna love these! Ground chicken creates a delicate and juicy texture that pairs perfectly with the smoky goodness of the grill. You know my love for ground turkey recipes and recently I’ve discovered that ground chicken is just as good and versatile!

These burgers are a fantastic choice for those seeking a tasty and wholesome option to enjoy during backyard barbecues, picnics, or any casual gathering with friends and family. If you don’t feel like having a burger but still want that BBQ Chicken flavor, go for my BBQ Chicken Kale Salad instead!

To elevate the flavors even further, we’re topping these succulent chicken burgers with homemade slaw. The cool and crisp shredded cabbage, coated in a tangy blend of vinegar and a hint of creamy mayo, adds a refreshing crunch to each bite. It’s the perfect way to add a touch of brightness and a pop of flavor, turning these burgers into a complete culinary experience.

Not only are these Grilled BBQ Chicken Burgers incredibly delicious, but they also make for an ideal summer recipe. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ, planning a poolside party, or simply enjoying a lazy weekend afternoon, these burgers are sure to be a hit. The combination of grilled chicken infused with smoky BBQ flavors and the refreshing slaw is a match made in heaven!

Not sure what to serve them with? Try them alongside Sweet Grilled Corn, Greek Chicken Pasta Salad, Sumac Roasted Sweet Potatoes or a simple Caesar Salad for a well-rounded refreshing meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Chicken burgers offer all the mouthwatering flavors of a classic burger while being lighter with ground chicken.
• The homemade slaw takes these burgers to a whole new level of deliciousness. With its tangy and creamy dressing, it adds a refreshing crunch that perfectly complements the smoky chicken.
• This recipe is great for summer gatherings, whether it’s a casual backyard barbecue or a fun-filled picnic in the park!
• Not only are these Grilled BBQ Chicken Burgers incredibly tasty, but they’re also incredibly versatile. Add a slice of melted cheese, some crispy bacon, or even a dollop of avocado cream. The options are endless, allowing you to create a burger that suits everyone’s tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Chicken – The star of the show, ground chicken serves as the base for these delicious burgers, providing a lean and tender alternative to beef while still delivering a juicy and flavorful patty.
• Seasonings (Salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika) – This medley of seasonings adds depth. It enhances the taste of the ground chicken.
• BBQ Sauce – Brings a tangy and smoky flavor profile to the burgers, creating a glaze that infuses every bite with barbecue goodness.
• Sliced Cheese – Optional, but adds a creamy and melty component to the burgers, creating a luscious layer of flavor.
• Brioche Burger Buns – These soft and slightly sweet buns are the perfect vessel to hold the burgers and slaw together. My favorite are from St. Pierre.

For the Slaw:

• Vinegar (Rice wine and apple cider vinegar) – The combination of these two kinds of vinegar creates a tangy and refreshing dressing that brings a zesty punch to the slaw.
• Mayonnaise – Contributes a creamy texture to the slaw, coating the shredded cabbage.
• Shredded Cabbage – Crisp and crunchy shredded cabbage add a refreshing element to the slaw, providing a contrast of textures.

How To Make Grilled BBQ Chicken Burgers with Slaw

Form the burger patties: Add the ground chicken to a mixing bowl along with the salt, pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and BBQ sauce until well combined. Using your hands, mix together until all the ingredients are combined without overworking. Form into four even patties. Place them in the fridge to chill for 15 minutes or up to overnight.

Grill the burgers: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium heat (about 350-375F). Place burgers on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes each side or until they are fully cooked through the center. Let rest for 5 minutes.

Make the slaw: In a mixing bowl, whisk together both vinegars along with the mayonnaise until evenly combined. Then, add the shredded cabbage and use tongs to toss until evenly coated. Set aside while the burgers cook.

Assemble chicken burgers: Add the cooked chicken burger to the brioche bun. Top with cheese if desired, along with additional BBQ sauce and a serving of slaw. Enjoy alongside your favorite summer side dishes!

Recipe Tips

• When mixing the ground chicken with the seasonings and BBQ sauce, it’s important not to overmix. Overmixing can result in a dense and tough texture. Gently incorporate the ingredients until just combined for a tender and juicy burger.
• To ensure that the burgers hold their shape and don’t fall apart on the grill, refrigerate the formed patties for at least 15 minutes or up to overnight. Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and helps the burgers maintain their structure during cooking.
• Preheating the grill or pan to medium/high heat is crucial for achieving a beautiful sear and caramelization on the burgers. This creates a mouthwatering crust while locking in the juiciness.
• Assembling the burger is where the magic happens. Spread some extra BBQ sauce on the bottom bun to infuse each bite with even more flavor. Then, layer the patty on top, followed by a generous amount of the homemade slaw.

Variations

• For a spicy kick, add a dash of cayenne pepper or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the ground chicken mixture. This will give your burgers a fiery twist for those who like spice.
• If you’re a fan of smoky flavors, try using a chipotle BBQ sauce instead of the traditional BBQ sauce. The smoky and slightly spicy notes of chipotle will add a zesty bold flavor.
• Swap out the traditional sliced cheese with pepper jack for a zesty kick, or opt for smoked gouda to add a rich and smoky undertone.
• Take the slaw to the next level by incorporating additional veggies. Mix in some grated carrots or thinly sliced red onions for added crunch and color. You can also toss in a handful of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley to infuse the slaw with a burst of freshness.
• If you prefer a gluten-free option or want to switch up the bun, try using lettuce wraps instead.

Storing & Freezing

Storing: Place any leftover patties in an airtight container or wrap them tightly in plastic wrap. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat them on the grill or in a preheated pan until heated through.

Freezing: Allow the cooked burgers to cool completely. Individually wrap each patty in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container or freezer bag. This prevents them from sticking together. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the frozen burgers, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Then, you can reheat them on the grill or in a pan until heated through.

Note: If you have leftover slaw, it’s best to consume it fresh, as it can become watery when stored. If you need to store it, keep it in a separate airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days and give it a good toss before serving.

FAQ

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a suitable substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. The flavors and seasonings will work well with turkey, giving you a delicious alternative option for your BBQ burgers.

Can I grill these burgers on an indoor grill pan instead of an outdoor grill?

You can use an indoor grill pan to cook BBQ chicken burgers. Preheat the grill pan over medium-high heat, and follow the cooking instructions as mentioned in the recipe.

Can I make the slaw ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the slaw ahead of time. However, it is best to dress the cabbage just before serving to maintain its crispness. Keep the shredded cabbage and dressing separately in the refrigerator, and toss them together when you’re ready to assemble and serve the burgers.

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