Irresistible Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers

If you’re craving something juicy, flavorful, and with a little smoky punch, these Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers are exactly what you need. Combining tender chicken patties loaded with bold smoked paprika seasoning, these smash burgers bring a crispy, caramelized exterior with irresistible smoky goodness. They’re quick to make, simple to customize, and guaranteed to become a fast favorite in your recipe rotation for any weeknight or weekend cookout.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor Profile: The smoked paprika infuses the chicken with a smoky depth that’s hard to resist.
• Juicy and Tender: Smash cooking locks in moisture, creating patties that are juicy without any dryness.
• Quick and Easy: Minimal ingredients and fast cooking time make this a perfect go-to meal.
• Customizable: Flexible recipe easily adapts to your favorite toppings and sides.
• Healthy Twist: Lean ground chicken offers a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients that work together to deliver a perfect balance of taste, texture, and eye-catching color. Every item plays an essential role—whether it’s the spices for flavor or the binders for holding juicy patties.

• Ground Chicken: Choose fresh, lean ground chicken for a tender base.
• Smoked Paprika: Adds the signature smoky flavor that defines this recipe.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances depth without overpowering the smoky notes.
• Onion Powder: Provides a subtle sweetness and aroma.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Olive Oil or Butter: Helps crisp up the patties beautifully in the pan.
• Burger Buns: Soft yet sturdy buns hold all the juicy goodness without falling apart.
• Your Favorite Toppings: Lettuce, tomato, pickles, cheese, or spicy mayo to personalize every bite.

Variations for Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers

Feel free to experiment and tailor these smoked paprika chicken smash burgers to suit your taste buds or dietary needs. This recipe is a blank canvas that welcomes creative twists without losing its core appeal.

• Spicy Kick: Add cayenne pepper or chipotle powder for extra heat.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: Melt pepper jack or smoked gouda on top for creamy, smoky layers.
• Low-Carb Option: Swap burger buns for lettuce wraps or keto-friendly alternatives.
• Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh herbal lift.
• BBQ Style: Brush patties with your favorite barbecue sauce during cooking.

How to Make Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Mixture

In a bowl, combine ground chicken with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix just until evenly combined—over-mixing can lead to dense patties.

Step 2: Heat the Pan

Preheat a heavy skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat. Add a small amount of olive oil or butter to coat the surface, ensuring a crispy sear.

Step 3: Form and Smash the Patties

Divide the chicken mixture into equal portions, then place one portion in the hot pan. Using a spatula or burger press, firmly smash the chicken mixture until it’s about ½ inch thick. This smashing creates maximum surface area for browning.

Step 4: Cook Until Crispy and Juicy

Let the patties cook undisturbed for 3-4 minutes until the edges are deeply browned and crispy. Flip and cook the other side for another 3 minutes or until fully cooked through.

Step 5: Toast Buns and Assemble

While the burgers finish cooking, toast the buns in the same pan until golden. Then assemble your burgers with desired toppings and sauces for a mouthwatering finish.

Pro Tips for Making Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers

• Don’t Overmix: Combine ingredients lightly to maintain juicy texture in the patties.
• Hot Pan Is Key: Use a very hot skillet for crisp crust and smoky flavor.
• Smash Quickly: Press the patties firmly but swiftly for best caramelization.
• Use Fresh Spices: Smoked paprika’s flavor is more vibrant if fresh rather than old.
• Let Rest Briefly: Allow patties to rest a few minutes after cooking for juices to redistribute.

How to Serve Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, thin red onion rings, and tangy pickles bring crunch and brightness to the smoky richness of the chicken patties. A dollop of smoky chipotle mayo or creamy aioli elevates each bite perfectly.

Side Dishes

Classic crispy fries, sweet potato wedges, or a light coleslaw all complement the smoky, juicy flavor profile beautifully. For a lighter option, go with a fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the savory burger.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve in a rustic basket lined with parchment for casual charm. Stack your burgers with colorful layers showing, or slice them in half to showcase the juicy inside at parties. Even lettuce wrap presentation works when you want a gluten-free feast with style.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow cooked chicken patties to cool completely before placing in an airtight container. Refrigerate up to 3 days while keeping buns and toppings separate to maintain freshness.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze cooked patties wrapped tightly in plastic wrap and then foil or in freezer bags. They’ll keep well up to 3 months without losing flavor or texture.

Reheating

Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven covered with foil to preserve moisture. Avoid microwaving directly as it may dry out the chicken.

FAQs

Can I use other ground meats for these smash burgers?

Absolutely! While this recipe shines with ground chicken, you can swap in turkey, lean beef, or even plant-based grounds to suit your preference.

Is smoked paprika spicy?

Smoked paprika has a mild smoky flavor with very little heat, making it ideal for adding depth without overwhelming spiciness.

What’s the best way to prevent the patties from sticking?

Make sure your pan is hot and well-oiled before adding the patties. Resist the urge to flip too early; let a crust form first.

Can I make these burgers gluten-free?

Yes! Simply choose gluten-free buns or switch to lettuce wraps to keep everything gluten-friendly.

How do I keep the chicken patties juicy?

Don’t overwork the meat when mixing, smash quickly but firmly, and avoid pressing down once cooking starts to retain juices.

Final Thoughts

Smoked Paprika Chicken Smash Burgers are your new secret weapon for a quick, tasty meal bursting with smoky flavor and juicy satisfaction. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and plenty of room for personal touches, these burgers are bound to delight family and friends alike. So fire up your skillet and get ready to enjoy every delicious bite!

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