These Mexican Chicken Burgers are packed with bold flavors from cilantro, jalapeño, lime, and Mexican spices. The juicy chicken patties are served with fresh salsa and smashed avocado for a delicious and healthy twist. Instead of traditional buns, they are served on grilled butternut squash slices, making them Whole30, Paleo, Grain-Free, Gluten-Free, and Keto-friendly.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Patties:

700g ground chicken
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 clove garlic, minced
1 egg
3 tbsp almond flour
Juice and zest from 1 lime
1 jalapeño, finely diced
1/4 cup cilantro, roughly chopped

For the Salsa:

2 large tomatoes, seeded and chopped
1/2 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1 jalapeño, finely chopped
Juice from 1 lime
Pinch of salt

For the Burger Toppings:

2 lettuce leaves
5 slices butternut squash or sweet potato
1 tsp olive oil
1 avocado

Directions

Prepare the Chicken Patties:
- In a large bowl, mix the ground chicken, red onion, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic, egg, almond flour, lime juice and zest, jalapeño, and cilantro.
- Use your hands to blend everything together evenly.
- Form the mixture into 5-6 patties.
Make the Salsa:
- In a bowl, combine chopped tomatoes, onion, cilantro, jalapeño, and lime juice.
- Stir until well mixed and season with salt. Adjust lime juice or jalapeño as needed. Set aside.
Prepare the Toppings:
- Mash the avocado in a bowl with a fork, leaving small chunks.
- Peel the butternut squash and slice into 1/2-inch thick rounds.
- Lightly brush each round with olive oil.
Grill the Patties and Squash:
- Heat a grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the butternut squash slices for 3-4 minutes per side until grill marks appear and they are slightly tender.
- Grill the chicken patties for about 6 minutes per side until fully cooked.
Assemble the Burgers:
- Place a grilled butternut squash slice on a plate.
- Add a lettuce leaf, a chicken patty, smashed avocado, and salsa.
- Serve warm and enjoy!

Nutrients (Per serving, estimated)

Calories: ~350
Carbohydrates: ~15g
Protein: ~30g
Fat: ~20g
Sugar: ~5g

Why You’ll Love These Mexican Chicken Burgers

Packed with Flavor: The combination of cumin, smoked paprika, lime zest, cilantro, and jalapeño gives these burgers an incredible depth of flavor.
Healthy and Nutritious: Using ground chicken instead of beef reduces the fat content while still providing high-quality protein.
Grain-Free and Gluten-Free: The use of almond flour instead of breadcrumbs and butternut squash instead of a bun makes these burgers a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Fresh and Light: The bright and zesty salsa combined with creamy avocado makes every bite refreshing and satisfying.
Great for Meal Prep: The patties can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer, making them a perfect option for busy weeknights.

The Magic of Mexican Spices

One of the best things about these burgers is the flavorful spice blend. Traditional Mexican seasonings like cumin, smoked paprika, and garlic give the patties an aromatic and slightly smoky depth, while lime zest and juice add brightness. The jalapeño and cilantro bring in a fresh and slightly spicy kick, making every bite burst with flavor.

By using this well-balanced mix of spices, you get a burger that’s both bold and zesty, without needing heavy sauces or artificial ingredients.

Juicy and Tender Chicken Patties

Ground chicken can sometimes be tricky to work with because it’s leaner than beef, which means it can dry out easily. However, this recipe ensures juicy and tender patties by using:

Almond flour – Acts as a binder and absorbs moisture, keeping the patties soft and flavorful.
Egg – Helps hold everything together without making the mixture too dense.
Lime juice and zest – Adds moisture and brightens the overall flavor.
Chopped onion and jalapeño – Infuse the chicken with natural juices while providing extra texture.

Why Use Butternut Squash Instead of a Bun?

One of the most unique aspects of these burgers is the grilled butternut squash slices used as a bun replacement. Butternut squash is:

Naturally sweet and slightly nutty, complementing the spices in the chicken patties.
Low in calories and carbs, making it a great option for those following low-carb, Whole30, or Paleo diets.
Rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, boosting the nutritional profile of your meal.
A perfect grilling ingredient – when cooked on the grill, the squash slices develop slight caramelization, adding depth to the burger.

For an alternative, sweet potato slices can also be used as a bun substitute. They have a similar texture and natural sweetness that pairs well with the Mexican flavors.

Fresh and Zesty Salsa for the Perfect Topping

No Mexican-inspired dish is complete without a fresh salsa, and this one is incredibly simple yet flavorful. Made with ripe tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño, it adds a bright, refreshing contrast to the rich and smoky chicken patties.

The salsa not only enhances the flavor but also adds texture, making each bite more dynamic. The combination of the warm, spiced burger with the cool, zesty salsa makes for a well-balanced and satisfying meal.

Creamy Smashed Avocado for Extra Indulgence

Avocado is a staple in Mexican cuisine, and it plays a crucial role in these burgers. Instead of a traditional mayo-based sauce, this recipe uses smashed avocado as a creamy, healthy topping. Avocados are packed with healthy fats, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to your meal.

By smashing the avocado instead of slicing it, you get a spreadable consistency that adds moisture and richness to every bite. A pinch of salt and a squeeze of lime juice enhance its natural creaminess, making it the perfect topping for these burgers.

Cooking Tips for the Best Mexican Chicken Burgers

To ensure your burgers come out juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked, follow these tips:

Don’t overmix the patty mixture. Overworking the meat can make the patties tough. Mix just until combined.
Chill the patties before cooking. If you have time, let them rest in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before grilling. This helps them hold their shape better.
Use a hot grill. This ensures a nice sear on the outside while keeping the inside moist.
Don’t press down on the patties. Pressing them with a spatula while grilling can squeeze out juices, making them dry.
Make sure the squash slices are not too thin. Aim for ½-inch thick slices so they hold up well as a bun.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Mexican Chicken Burgers are delicious on their own, but if you’re looking to round out the meal, here are some great side dish ideas:

Cilantro Lime Cauliflower Rice – A light, low-carb side that complements the flavors of the burger.
Grilled Corn with Chili Lime Butter – Adds a touch of smoky sweetness to the meal.
Mexican Slaw – A crunchy, tangy cabbage slaw with lime and cilantro makes a refreshing side.
Spicy Sweet Potato Fries – Baked or air-fried for a healthier alternative to traditional fries.
Black Bean and Avocado Salad – A hearty, protein-packed side dish with a zesty lime dressing.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

If you want to meal prep these burgers or save leftovers, here’s how:

Uncooked patties: Form the patties and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days before cooking.
Cooked patties: Store in the fridge for up to 4 days and reheat in a pan or oven.
Freezing: You can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight before grilling.

Why These Mexican Chicken Burgers Are a Must-Try

Bold Mexican flavors with every bite
Healthy, grain-free, and gluten-free
Packed with protein and healthy fats
Great for meal prep and easy to make
Perfect for summer grilling or year-round meals

Conclusion

These Mexican Chicken Burgers are a delicious, healthy, and satisfying alternative to traditional burgers. Packed with bold spices, fresh toppings, and served on grilled butternut squash slices, they offer a unique twist that’s perfect for anyone looking for a low-carb, gluten-free, or Whole30-approved meal.

Whether you’re following a special diet or simply looking for a flavorful, nutrient-dense burger option, these are guaranteed to impress. Try them for your next meal and enjoy the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, creamy, and fresh flavors in every bite!

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