I still remember the first time I made Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mince Burger recipe. It was a lazy Sunday afternoon, and I was craving something juicy and satisfying but wanted to keep it light and healthy. I had heard so much about Jamie’s approach to simple, fresh ingredients, and his ability to elevate even the most basic meals. So, I thought, "Why not try a chicken burger instead of the usual beef?" I gathered the ingredients and got to work. What came out of that kitchen was nothing short of perfection-juicy, flavorful, and a total game-changer.
This recipe is all about making something tasty without overcomplicating things. It’s got that satisfying texture, a punch of flavor, and a few unexpected elements that’ll make you rethink what a burger can be. It also has this way of feeling like comfort food but without the guilt. Over the years, I’ve made a few tweaks here and there, and each time it’s been a hit.
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mince Burger Recipe
Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mince Burger is everything you want in a burger: juicy, tender, and packed with fresh flavors. It’s a lean alternative to beef, but don’t let that fool you-it’s incredibly flavorful. The beauty of Jamie’s recipes lies in their simplicity. You don’t need fancy ingredients or a ton of prep time to get a delicious meal.
I’ve made these burgers countless times, for friends, family, and even on weeknights when I didn’t feel like cooking a big meal. It’s always a crowd-pleaser. What I love about this recipe is that you can easily customize it to suit your taste. Whether you prefer your burgers with a spicy kick, fresh herbs, or a little bit of tang, this one’s flexible.
Ingredients Needed
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500g Of Ground Chicken
Ground chicken is lean but still juicy enough to make a flavorful burger. It’s the perfect base for the recipe.
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1 Small Onion
Chopped finely. This gives the burger a sweet, savory bite that blends in beautifully with the chicken.
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2 Cloves Of Garlic
Freshly minced garlic is a game-changer. It adds depth and complexity to the burger mix.
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1 Egg
It helps bind everything together, making the patties nice and firm.
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A Handful Of Fresh Herbs (such As Parsley Or Thyme)
Herbs bring a fresh brightness to the burger. I love adding thyme because it complements the chicken perfectly.
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Bread Crumbs
They add a bit of texture and fluffiness, helping the burger hold together. Jamie often uses fresh breadcrumbs, which gives the burger a wonderful softness.
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Olive Oil
A little olive oil for cooking adds flavor and keeps the burgers juicy.
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Salt & Pepper
To taste. Simple but essential for bringing all the flavors together.
How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mince Burger
Here’s the part where things get exciting. I still remember how the whole kitchen filled with savory smells as I mixed the ingredients for the first time. It’s super easy and straightforward:
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Prep The Ingredients
- Finely chop the onion and garlic.
- Wash and chop the herbs.
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Mix The Burger Patties
- In a bowl, add the ground chicken, chopped onion, garlic, herbs, bread crumbs, and egg.
- Season generously with salt and pepper.
- Mix everything together with your hands until it’s fully combined.
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Shape The Patties
- Take small portions of the mixture and roll them into a ball.
- Flatten them out into patties that are about 1 cm thick.
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Cook The Burgers
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the patties and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until golden and cooked through.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Serve them on a bun, or go low-carb and have them with a side of greens.
- Add your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, cheese, or a dollop of homemade sauce.
Ingredient Science Spotlight
When I first learned about ingredient science, I realized how the right combinations could completely transform a dish. Here’s a quick breakdown of the key ingredients and what they bring to the table:
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Ground Chicken
Chicken is a lean protein that cooks quickly and has a mild flavor. The high protein content makes it perfect for building a burger that holds its shape but isn’t overly greasy.
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Egg
The egg acts as a binder, helping the chicken and other ingredients hold together. It also adds moisture, ensuring the burger isn’t dry.
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Breadcrumbs
These help give the burger texture and fluffiness. They absorb moisture and provide a soft, airy consistency to the burger without making it soggy.
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Olive Oil
Olive oil brings healthy fats into the mix. It also helps with browning, creating a crispy outer layer that contrasts beautifully with the soft inside.
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Herbs And Garlic
Fresh herbs and garlic provide aromatic oils and compounds that enhance the overall flavor profile of the burger. The garlic, in particular, has sulfur compounds that add depth and richness.
Expert Tips
If you want to take your chicken mince burger to the next level, here are a few tips I’ve picked up over the years:
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Don’t Overwork The Mixture
When you mix the ingredients, do it gently. Overworking the mixture can lead to tough burgers. You want them tender and juicy.
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Chill The Patties
If you have time, chill the patties for about 15 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape and stay juicy.
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Use A Non-stick Pan
If you’re worried about the burgers sticking to the pan, use a non-stick skillet or a cast-iron pan. This will ensure even cooking and prevent messes.
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Add Cheese At The Right Time
If you’re adding cheese, place it on top of the burger about 1 minute before you finish cooking. Cover the pan with a lid to melt the cheese perfectly.
Recipe Variations
This recipe is super flexible. Here are a few variations I’ve tried that always hit the spot:
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Spicy Chicken Burger
Add chopped fresh chilies or a teaspoon of chili powder to the mix. If you want more heat, drizzle some hot sauce on top when serving.
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Herb-Infused Burger
Swap out the parsley for basil, oregano, or cilantro to change the flavor profile. Fresh thyme works wonders too.
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Lemon Zest Chicken Burger
Add a teaspoon of lemon zest to the chicken mix. The citrusy zing pairs beautifully with the richness of the chicken and adds a fresh twist.
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Bacon Chicken Burger
Add crumbled cooked bacon to the patty mixture for extra flavor and a smoky depth.
Final Words
This burger has become one of my go-to recipes for so many occasions. It’s quick, versatile, and doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether I’m cooking for myself, friends, or family, I know these chicken mince burgers are going to hit the spot. They’re satisfying without being overly heavy. Plus, the fresh ingredients elevate the whole experience-making it feel like you’re having a gourmet meal, even though it’s a simple weeknight dish.
FAQs
How Do I Make Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mince Burgers?
To make Jamie Oliver’s chicken mince burgers, mix chicken mince with breadcrumbs, herbs, and seasoning. Form into patties, then pan-fry or grill until cooked through.
Can I Use Chicken Breast For The Mince In Jamie Oliver’s Burger Recipe?
Yes, you can use chicken breast. Just make sure to finely chop or process it to get the right texture for the mince.
What Can I Serve With Jamie Oliver’s Chicken Mince Burgers?
These burgers go great with fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or even a simple slaw. You can also add your favorite condiments like mayo or mustard.