Juicy chicken fajita burgers loaded with peppers, onions, and guacamole—bold, Tex-Mex flavor packed into a handheld favorite. Perfect for grilling season!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re craving the bold flavors of Tex-Mex and the comfort of a burger, this recipe delivers the best of both worlds:
- Packed with protein and fresh ingredients
- Deliciously seasoned with fajita-inspired spices
- Includes homemade guacamole for a creamy, zesty touch
- A creative and fun twist on traditional burgers
- Great for grilling, skillet cooking, or meal prepping
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1½ teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- 4 slices Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 burger buns
For the Fajita Topping:
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Guacamole:
- 1 ripe avocado
- ½ lime, juiced
- 1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
- Salt to taste
Directions
- Prepare the Burger Patties:
In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, cilantro, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, oregano, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Divide and shape into four patties. Chill while preparing toppings. - Make the Guacamole:
In a small bowl, mash avocado with lime juice, red onion, and cilantro. Season with salt to taste. Set aside. - Cook the Fajita Topping:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add bell pepper and onion, season with chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized. Set aside. - Cook the Burger Patties:
In the same skillet, add more olive oil and cook patties for 4–5 minutes per side. Add cheese during the last few minutes to melt. Ensure internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C). - Assemble the Burgers:
Toast buns if desired. Add a chicken patty to the bottom half of each bun. Top with fajita veggies, a generous spoonful of guacamole, and the top bun. Serve immediately.
Servings And Timing
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Calories: Approx. 450 kcal per serving
Variations
- Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños to the burger mix or topping for extra heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Serve in lettuce wraps instead of buns.
- Cheese Swap: Use pepper jack or cheddar for a different flavor.
- Veggie Boost: Add grilled zucchini or mushrooms with the peppers.
- Taco-Style: Serve patty slices in tortillas with extra toppings.
Storage/Reheating
Storage:
- Store patties and toppings separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating:
- Reheat patties in a skillet or microwave until warmed through. Toast buns and assemble just before serving.
FAQs
Can I grill the patties instead of pan-frying?
Yes, just oil your grill grates and cook the patties over medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side.
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely—ground turkey works well and keeps the same flavor profile.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes, form them up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerate until ready to cook.
What if I don’t have fresh lime juice?
Bottled lime juice or even lemon juice works in a pinch.
How do I keep the patties from sticking to the pan?
Use a non-stick skillet or ensure the pan and oil are hot before adding the patties.
Can I freeze the patties?
Yes, freeze uncooked patties between parchment paper and store in a sealed bag for up to 2 months.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free buns or serve in lettuce wraps to make it gluten-free.
What sides go well with these burgers?
Try sweet potato fries, grilled corn, or a side salad.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes! This recipe scales up easily for a crowd.
Conclusion
Chicken Fajita Burgers combine the sizzling flavors of Tex-Mex with the comfort of a juicy burger, all wrapped up in one irresistible handheld meal. With bold spices, creamy guacamole, and sweet caramelized veggies, this dish is a guaranteed hit for any night of the week. Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking on the stovetop, it’s time to bring the fiesta to your burger night.
Print
Chicken Fajita Burgers
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Juicy chicken fajita burgers loaded with peppers, onions, and guacamole—bold, Tex-Mex flavor packed into a handheld favorite. Perfect for grilling season!
Ingredients
For the Burgers:
1 pound ground chicken
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
1½ teaspoons chili powder
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
4 slices Monterey Jack cheese
4 burger buns
For the Fajita Topping:
1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
½ teaspoon chili powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Guacamole:
1 ripe avocado
½ lime, juiced
1 tablespoon red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh cilantro, chopped
Salt to taste
Instructions
Make the patties: Combine ground chicken, lime juice, cilantro, and spices. Form into 4 patties.
Prepare guacamole: Mash avocado with lime juice, onion, cilantro, and salt. Set aside.
Sauté veggies: Cook sliced peppers and onions in oil with chili powder until soft and slightly caramelized.
Cook patties: Sear patties in oil until golden and cooked through (internal temp 165°F), adding cheese slices during the last minute.
Assemble: Toast buns. Layer with chicken patty, fajita veggies, guacamole, and top bun. Serve warm.
Notes
- Customize heat level by adding jalapeños or chipotle mayo.
- Swap ground chicken with turkey if preferred.
- For a low-carb version, serve over lettuce wraps or as a fajita bowl.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Southwestern