Chicken Teriyaki Burgers

If you love the combination of sweet, savory, and smoky flavors, then Chicken Teriyaki Burgers are about to become your new favorite meal! Juicy, perfectly grilled or pan-seared chicken is coated in a rich, homemade teriyaki sauce and served on a toasted bun with fresh toppings. The balance of sweetness from honey, saltiness from soy sauce, and depth from ginger and garlic creates an irresistible bite every time.

These burgers take the classic American favorite and give it a delicious Japanese-inspired twist. Instead of a heavy, greasy burger, this dish features a lighter, leaner protein option without sacrificing any of the flavor. Whether you make them for a weeknight dinner, summer barbecue, or meal prep, these burgers are guaranteed to impress!

Let’s dive into what makes these Chicken Teriyaki Burgers a must-try recipe.

Why You’ll Love These Chicken Teriyaki Burgers

• Sweet & Savory Perfection: The teriyaki glaze caramelizes beautifully, giving every bite a mouthwatering balance of flavors.
• Healthier Than Beef Burgers: Made with lean chicken, these burgers are lighter yet still incredibly satisfying.
• Easy to Make: The sauce comes together in minutes, and the chicken can be grilled, pan-seared, or even baked.
• Customizable: You can swap the toppings, adjust the level of sweetness, or even use turkey instead of chicken.
• Great for Meal Prep: The patties and sauce can be prepped ahead of time, making weeknight dinners effortless.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a summer cookout, these burgers fit right in.

Preparation Time and Yield

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 430
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Protein: 35g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 15g

Ingredients for Chicken Teriyaki Burgers

For the Chicken Patties:

• 1 lb ground chicken (or boneless chicken breasts, if grilling whole)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1 tbsp green onions, chopped
• 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs (for texture)
• 1 egg (optional, for binding)

For the Teriyaki Sauce:

• 1/3 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp rice vinegar
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ginger, grated
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)

For Assembling the Burgers:

• 4 burger buns (toasted)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tsp sriracha (optional, for spicy mayo)
• 4 pineapple slices (grilled, optional)
• 4 lettuce leaves
• 1/2 cup shredded carrots
• 1/4 cup sliced red onion
• 1 tbsp sesame seeds (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Chicken Teriyaki Burgers

Step 1: Make the Teriyaki Sauce

In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, ginger, and garlic over medium heat. Stir and bring to a simmer.

In a separate bowl, mix cornstarch with water, then slowly add it to the sauce while stirring. Continue to cook for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens. Remove from heat and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken Patties

In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, soy sauce, ginger, garlic, black pepper, salt, green onions, panko breadcrumbs, and egg (if using). Form into 4 equal-sized patties.

If using whole chicken breasts, pound them slightly to even thickness and marinate them in 2 tablespoons of teriyaki sauce for at least 15 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken Patties

For grilling: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates. Cook patties for 5-6 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).

For stovetop cooking: Heat a pan over medium heat, add a little oil, and cook patties for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.

During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the patties generously with teriyaki sauce to create a sticky glaze.

Step 4: Toast the Buns & Prepare the Toppings

Toast the burger buns lightly on the grill or in a pan for extra flavor.

In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and sriracha to make a spicy mayo spread.

Step 5: Assemble the Burgers

Spread a layer of spicy mayo on the bottom bun, place the teriyaki-glazed chicken patty on top, and add a grilled pineapple slice for extra sweetness. Top with lettuce, shredded carrots, and red onions. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before adding the bun.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve immediately with a side of fries, a fresh salad, or even a teriyaki-glazed coleslaw for a complete meal.

Ingredient Background

The magic of Chicken Teriyaki Burgers comes from a combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors. Let’s take a closer look at some key components that make this dish so delicious.

1. Teriyaki Sauce – A Japanese Staple

Teriyaki sauce is a fundamental part of Japanese cuisine, known for its sweet and savory glaze. The word “teriyaki” comes from “teri” (glaze or luster) and “yaki” (grilling or broiling). Traditional teriyaki sauce is made from soy sauce, mirin, and sugar, creating a beautifully glossy coating on meats. In this recipe, we enhance it with honey, garlic, and ginger for even more depth of flavor.

2. Pineapple – A Tropical Sweetness

Grilled pineapple is a game-changer for these burgers. The caramelized sugars bring a smoky-sweet contrast to the umami-packed teriyaki chicken. Pineapples are also rich in vitamin C and bromelain, an enzyme that aids digestion and tenderizes meat.

3. Ground Chicken – A Leaner Protein Alternative

Instead of using beef, we opt for ground chicken or chicken breasts, which are high in protein but lower in fat. Chicken absorbs marinades exceptionally well, ensuring every bite is flavorful. You can also use ground turkey for a similar lean yet juicy texture.

Technique Tips for Chicken Teriyaki Burgers

Mastering these key techniques will ensure your Chicken Teriyaki Burgers turn out perfect every time.

1. Don’t Overwork the Chicken Mixture

When mixing ground chicken with the seasonings, be gentle. Overmixing can make the patties dense and tough instead of juicy. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.

2. Use a Grill or Cast Iron for the Best Sear

To get that crispy, caramelized exterior, cook the burgers on a hot grill or a cast iron pan. The high heat helps to seal in juices and enhance the smoky teriyaki glaze.

3. Brush with Sauce at the Right Time

Apply the teriyaki glaze in the last 2 minutes of cooking. This allows it to stick to the burger and slightly caramelize without burning. If you add it too early, the sugars in the sauce may burn.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

While these Chicken Teriyaki Burgers are amazing on a toasted bun, there are other creative ways to enjoy them!

1. Teriyaki Chicken Lettuce Wraps

For a low-carb version, swap out the burger bun for crisp lettuce leaves. This light and refreshing option keeps all the flavor while cutting down on carbs.

2. Teriyaki Chicken Sliders

Make mini patties and serve them on Hawaiian sweet rolls for a fun party appetizer or game-day snack. The sweetness of the rolls pairs beautifully with the teriyaki glaze.

3. Teriyaki Rice Bowls

Skip the buns and serve the teriyaki-glazed chicken over steamed jasmine rice with sautéed vegetables, avocado, and a drizzle of extra sauce. This turns the burger into a delicious rice bowl with all the same great flavors.

Freezing and Storing Chicken Teriyaki Burgers

These burgers are great for meal prep, and they store well for later use.

1. Storing in the Refrigerator

• Cooked patties can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• To reheat, warm them in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, or microwave for 1-2 minutes.

2. Freezing for Longer Storage

• If making patties ahead of time, freeze them uncooked on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
• To cook from frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before grilling or pan-searing.

3. Freezing the Teriyaki Sauce

• The sauce can be made in advance and frozen in small portions. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months and reheat before using.

Healthier Twist Ideas

If you’re looking for a lighter version of these Chicken Teriyaki Burgers, here are some modifications to keep them nutritious while maintaining the amazing flavor.

1. Swap the Bun for a Healthier Alternative

• Use whole wheat buns for added fiber.
• Try lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.

2. Reduce Sugar in the Teriyaki Sauce

• Instead of brown sugar and honey, use coconut aminos, which has natural sweetness but less sugar than soy sauce.
• Add pineapple juice for natural sweetness instead of refined sugar.

3. Bake Instead of Frying or Grilling

• If you prefer a hands-off approach, bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method requires less oil while still keeping them juicy.

Serving Suggestions for Events

These Chicken Teriyaki Burgers are versatile enough to serve at a variety of occasions.

1. Backyard BBQs & Summer Cookouts

These burgers are perfect for grilling outdoors! Serve with grilled corn, a fresh Asian slaw, and homemade lemonade for a summer-ready meal.

2. Family Dinners

For a casual family meal, serve the burgers with a side of sweet potato fries or roasted veggies. The balance of flavors makes this a kid-friendly dish that everyone will love.

3. Meal Prep for Work Lunches

Make extra patties and pack them with steamed rice, roasted broccoli, and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce. This makes a delicious, healthy lunch option that reheats well.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use store-bought teriyaki sauce?

Yes! If you’re short on time, store-bought teriyaki sauce works. However, making your own lets you control the ingredients and sweetness level.

2. Can I make these burgers with ground turkey?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will still absorb the teriyaki flavors beautifully.

3. What’s the best way to reheat these burgers?

Reheat in a pan over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side to keep them juicy. The microwave works too, but may dry them out slightly.

4. How do I prevent the chicken patties from falling apart?

Make sure to use panko breadcrumbs and an egg to help bind the mixture. Also, chill the patties in the fridge for 15-20 minutes before cooking to firm them up.

5. Can I grill these on an outdoor barbecue?

Yes! Just make sure to oil the grates well so the chicken patties don’t stick.

6. What can I use instead of pineapple?

If you don’t like pineapple, try mango slices for a similar tropical sweetness.

Conclusion

Chicken Teriyaki Burgers bring bold Asian-inspired flavors to a classic American favorite. The juicy chicken patties, sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, and fresh toppings make for an unforgettable meal. Whether you’re grilling outdoors, prepping a weeknight dinner, or making a healthier burger alternative, this recipe is a winner.

So why not fire up the grill and give these burgers a try? Serve them with your favorite sides, share them with friends and family, and enjoy every delicious bite!

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