How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

If you’re craving a mouthwatering, crispy delight that brings together the ultimate comfort food vibes, look no further than the Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon. This recipe combines crispy smashed chicken patties, smoky crispy bacon, and a creamy, spicy mayo that perfectly balances the flavors and textures. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, this burger promises a satisfying bite that’s juicy, crispy, and bursting with bold flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Perfect Crispy Texture: Smashed chicken creates a deliciously crunchy crust that locks in juicy tenderness inside.
• Flavor Explosion: The spicy mayo adds a creamy kick that takes this burger from simple to sensational.
• Smoky Bacon Goodness: Crispy strips of bacon add savory depth and irresistible crunch.
• Quick and Easy: The process is straightforward, making it ideal for busy days or last-minute cravings.
• Customizable: Easily tweak spice levels, toppings, or bun choices to suit your preferences perfectly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, quality ingredients is key to nailing this Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon. Each one plays an essential role in crafting that ideal balance of flavor, texture, and color that makes this recipe so special.

• Ground Chicken: Preferably fresh, it’s the base that forms juicy, tender patties when smashed.
• Bacon Strips: Adds smoky, salty crunch to every bite.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy foundation of the spicy mayo that binds the other flavors.
• Hot Sauce: A few dashes mixed with mayo deliver the signature spicy kick.
• Hamburger Buns: Soft and lightly toasted, they hold your burger with just the right grip.
• Pickles: Adds acidity and crunch for a bright contrast to rich flavors.
• Cheese (optional): Melted cheddar or American cheese enhances creaminess and taste.
• Lettuce and Tomato: Freshness and color that elevate each bite.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika to season the chicken perfectly.

Variations for Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

The Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon is incredibly versatile. Feel free to spice it up or adapt it depending on your pantry staples or dietary needs without sacrificing that crave-worthy flavor.

• Avocado Upgrade: Swap in sliced avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
• Cheese Swap: Try pepper jack or gouda for a smoky or spicy cheese twist.
• Vegetarian Version: Use smashed chickpea patties or a plant-based chicken alternative instead of ground chicken.
• Heat Control: Adjust the hot sauce quantity in the mayo to fine-tune the spiciness.
• Alternative Buns: Gluten-free, brioche, or lettuce wraps can replace traditional buns for different textures or dietary preferences.

How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with your favorite hot sauce, garlic powder, and a pinch of smoked paprika. Mix thoroughly and refrigerate until ready to use. This zesty mayo will be the perfect creamy complement to the crispy chicken and bacon.

Step 2: Crisp the Bacon

Cook bacon strips in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crispy. Place them on paper towels to drain excess grease, then keep warm for assembly and that irresistible smoky crunch.

Step 3: Season and Form Chicken Patties

In a bowl, gently mix ground chicken with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a little paprika. Divide the meat into equal portions, then place them loosely onto a hot griddle or skillet. Using a spatula, press each portion down firmly and quickly to create thin patties with crunchy edges.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Cook the smashed chicken patties over medium-high heat for about 3-4 minutes per side until a golden crust forms and the chicken is fully cooked. If using cheese, add a slice on top in the last minute to melt.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Slice hamburger buns and toast them lightly in a dry pan or on a grill. This adds a delightful crunch and prevents sogginess from the spicy mayo.

Step 6: Assemble Your Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Spread a generous amount of spicy mayo on the bottom bun. Layer on the smashed chicken patty with melted cheese, add crispy bacon strips, pickles, lettuce, and tomato slices. Finish with the top bun and press gently. Your burger is ready for a satisfying bite!

Pro Tips for Making Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

• Use Cold Meat: Keep ground chicken cold before smashing to ensure better texture and juiciness.
• Don’t Overwork: Handle the meat gently just to combine seasonings so the patties stay tender.
• Hot Pan, Fast Smash: Preheat your pan well and press quickly to get that signature crispy edge.
• Customize Mayo: Experiment with different hot sauces or a squeeze of lime juice for playful variations.
• Layer Wisely: Place crispier ingredients like bacon and pickles between mayo and patty to keep buns from getting soggy.

How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like onion rings, shredded lettuce, or sliced jalapeños add a crunchy or spicy pop to your burger, amplifying texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries, a simple coleslaw, or even a fresh green salad to round out your meal with balanced textures and tastes.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon on a wooden board with small bowls of extra spicy mayo for dipping, or stack several mini sliders for parties and gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover chicken patties, bacon, and buns separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days to maintain optimal freshness and texture.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken patties wrapped in plastic wrap or foil and placed in a freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw fully before reheating to preserve juiciness.

Reheating

Reheat chicken patties in a skillet over medium heat to restore crispiness, and warm bacon briefly in the oven to maintain crunch without drying out.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?

Yes! But for best results, finely chop or grind the chicken breast yourself to achieve the right texture for smashing and crisping.

How spicy is the spicy mayo?

The spice level depends on the hot sauce you choose; you can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less hot sauce to suit your taste.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free buns and confirming that your seasonings and hot sauce don’t contain gluten ingredients.

Can I make this burger dairy-free?

Absolutely! Simply omit the cheese and use dairy-free mayonnaise to keep the yummy flavors intact.

What’s the best way to get crispy edges on the chicken patties?

Use a very hot skillet and press the patties firmly but quickly when forming them to maximize the crispy, caramelized crust that makes this burger so addictive.

Final Thoughts

Nothing beats the irresistible combination of textures and flavors in a Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon. Crispy chicken, smoky bacon, and that creamy, spicy mayo come together in perfect harmony, creating a burger experience you’ll crave again and again. So get ready to make this simple yet spectacular recipe—it’s your ticket to burger bliss!

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