Spinach Chicken Burgers & Meatballs

Beth Jones Author

Sometimes I just need a change from the traditional beef burgers. I also always love to find ways to sneak veggies into my kids diets, and this recipe does the trick.

The great thing about this recipe is that you can use it for both burger patties and meatballs. It comes together quick, and it truly is one of our family's favorites. Anytime my kids ask for the "green burgers", this is on the menu for the week!

Prep Time: 30 mins

Cook Time: 10 mins

Servings: 4 burgers

Equipment:

• Food processor with S-blade
  
• Baking sheet
• Oven

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs or breasts
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 1/4 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups spinach, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 Tbsp cooking fat (olive oil, avocado oil, etc)

Directions:

• Cut chicken into chunks and place them in the bowl of a food processor fitted with the S-Blade. Pulse and then blend until the chicken begins to be broken down.
  
• Add egg, onion, garlic, spinach, oregano, salt, and pepper to the food processor. Blend until the mixture all comes together and the chicken is minced.

• Use a small scoop or spoon to roll the mixture into 15-20 meatballs, each about the size of a golf ball. You might need to oil your hands a bit to prevent sticking. 
• Place them on the cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. You can put them close together since they won't spread.
  
• Bake the meatballs in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a thermometer reads 180° F when inserted in the middle.

For Burgers

• Divide the mixture into 4-8 pieces, depending on how big you want your burgers.
  
• Roll each piece into a ball & then flatten with your hands. You might need to oil your hands a bit to prevent sticking.
• Cooking options:
  • Grill: preheat to between 375°-400°C. Cook for between 20-30 minutes, or until a thermometer reads 180° F when inserted in the middle.
  • Oven: preheat oven to 425°. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper, and place burgers on the sheet. Bake the burgers in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until a thermometer reads 180° F when inserted in the middle.
  • Stovetop: Heat about 1 tablespoon of oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-low heat. Add four of the patties to the pan and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until a thermometer reads 180° F when inserted in the middle.

Categories: : protein, recipes

Did you give this one a try? Maybe you changed it up to make it your own. Let me know what you thought below.