These Teriyaki Chicken Burgers are a fun twist on your regular burger! They’re juicy and packed with a sweet, tangy sauce that makes your taste buds dance.
Don’t forget to top them with some fresh pineapple for that extra tropical feel. I like serving them with crispy fries on the side—because who can resist fries? 🍟
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! If you prefer, you can use ground turkey for a leaner option. Alternatively, you could make a vegetarian version with ground tofu or a plant-based meat substitute.
Teriyaki Sauce: Homemade sauce is so easy! If you don’t have mirin, mix one tablespoon of sugar with one tablespoon of water as a sweetener. You can also use store-bought teriyaki sauce for convenience, though I love the fresh flavor of homemade!
Pineapple: Fresh pineapple adds a nice touch, but canned works just fine. If you’re looking for another flavor, grilled bell peppers can be a sweet alternative.
Green Onions: They add a fresh crunch! If you don’t have them on hand, regular onion or even finely chopped chives can work well in a pinch.
How Can I Make the Juiciest Chicken Patties?
Creating juicy chicken patties is all about gentle handling and cooking at the right temperature. Here are my tips:
- Mix the ground chicken with other ingredients gently to avoid tough patties. Just combine until everything is mixed!
- Shape your patties to be slightly larger than the buns; they will shrink as they cook.
- Cook them on medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side, ensuring they’re cooked through to 165°F (74°C). This temperature gives you juicy burgers without being dry!
- Brush with teriyaki sauce in the last couple of minutes for an extra flavor boost!
Teriyaki Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped (optional)
- 1 tbsp ginger, finely grated
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves (romaine or iceberg)
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
- Pineapple slices, fresh or canned (about 4 slices)
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
For the Teriyaki Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp mirin (Japanese sweet rice wine) or substitute with 1 tbsp sugar and 1 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp sake (optional, can replace with water)
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp cornstarch mixed with 1 tbsp water (slurry)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, in just about 30-35 minutes, you’ll have delicious Teriyaki Chicken Burgers ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Teriyaki Sauce:
In a small saucepan, combine the soy sauce, mirin, sake, and brown sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
2. Thicken the Sauce:
Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until the sauce thickens, which will take about 1–2 minutes. Remove it from the heat and set it aside so it can cool slightly.
3. Make the Chicken Patties:
In a mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, green onions (if using), grated ginger, minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix gently until everything is just combined; don’t overmix!
4. Form the Patties:
Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, about ¾ inch thick. Make an indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
5. Cook the Patties:
Heat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F / 74°C) and they’re nicely browned.
6. Glaze with Teriyaki Sauce:
In the last 1–2 minutes of cooking, generously brush the patties with the teriyaki sauce to give them a lovely glaze.
7. Caramelize the Pineapple:
While the patties are finishing up, grill or lightly pan-fry the pineapple slices until they are caramelized and warm, about 2 minutes on each side.
8. Assemble the Burgers:
Lightly toast the hamburger buns. On the bottom bun, place a lettuce leaf, followed by sliced red onions, and then the teriyaki-glazed chicken patty.
9. Add the Final Touches:
Top the patty with a caramelized pineapple slice and a drizzle of extra teriyaki sauce. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
10. Serve and Enjoy!
Cover with the top bun and serve your delicious Teriyaki Chicken Burgers immediately. Enjoy them with your favorite sides like fries or a salad!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well for these burgers. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may require slightly longer to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in a skillet or the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the teriyaki sauce in advance! It can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before using it.
What Can I Substitute for Pineapple?
If you’re not a fan of pineapple, try using grilled bell peppers or even slices of mango. They add a lovely sweetness that complements the teriyaki flavor well!
