How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

If you’ve been searching for the perfect combination of juicy, crispy, and spicy in one unforgettable meal, look no further than this Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon. This recipe delivers tender, smashed chicken patties packed with flavor, complemented by smoky bacon and a creamy, zesty mayo that kicks every bite up a notch. Whether you’re craving a tasty lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this burger hits all the right notes and is surprisingly simple to make at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-packed deliciousness: The smashing technique creates crispy edges on the chicken for unmatched texture and taste.
• Perfect balance: Smoky bacon and spicy mayo combine to give a mouthwatering contrast of flavors.
• Quick and easy: You can have a gourmet-style burger ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Customizable: The straightforward ingredients can be adapted to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
• Impressive yet approachable: Your friends and family will think you spent hours in the kitchen, but this recipe is beginner-friendly.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon recipe calls for simple, everyday ingredients that come together to create an explosion of flavor and texture. Each item plays a key role—from the juicy chicken and crispy bacon to the creamy house-made spicy mayo that ties it all together.

• Ground chicken: Use lean but moist ground chicken for juicy patties that smash well on the griddle.
• Bacon strips: Choose thick-cut bacon for that perfect smoky crunch to layer onto your burger.
• Hamburger buns: Soft and lightly toasted to hold all the juicy elements without falling apart.
• Mayonnaise: The creamy base for your spicy sauce, adding richness and moisture.
• Sriracha or hot sauce: Provides the signature spicy kick in your mayo.
• Garlic powder: Adds depth and savory notes to the chicken patties.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning the chicken and enhancing all the other flavors.
• Lettuce and tomato slices: Fresh veggies to add crunch and freshness balancing the rich burger.
• Butter or oil: For toasting buns and cooking bacon and chicken to a golden finish.

Variations for Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

This recipe is a fantastic starting point, but feel free to put your own spin on it. Whether you’re avoiding gluten or love extra heat, these variations make it easy to tailor the Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon exactly how you like it.

• Cheese swap: Melt your favorite cheese, like pepper jack or sharp cheddar, over the patties for a gooey upgrade.
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free buns or lettuce wraps to keep it low-carb and allergy-friendly.
• Extra spicy mayo: Add more sriracha or a dash of cayenne pepper for a fiery punch that doesn’t hold back.
• Avocado topping: Creamy avocado slices add healthy fats and smooth texture complementing the spicy mayo.
• Caramelized onions: Sweet, soft onions offer a delicious counterpoint to the smoky bacon and spicy sauce.

How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Mayo

Start by mixing mayonnaise with sriracha or your favorite hot sauce in a small bowl. Adjust the ratio to find your perfect heat level, then set aside so the flavors meld while you cook the patties.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook bacon strips until crispy. Drain on paper towels and keep warm. The smoky bacon will add a satisfying crunch and flavor to the burger.

Step 3: Form and Smash the Chicken Patties

Lightly season ground chicken with salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Divide into portions and place each ball onto a hot, lightly greased griddle or cast-iron pan. Using a sturdy spatula or bacon press, firmly smash down each ball into a thin patty. This technique creates deliciously crispy edges and juicy centers.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

Cook the smashed patties for about 3 to 4 minutes on the first side until the edges become brown and crispy, then flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes until fully cooked. Avoid pressing down again to retain juiciness.

Step 5: Toast the Buns

Butter the buns lightly and toast them face down in a skillet or on the grill until golden and slightly crisp, adding a wonderful texture to every bite.

Step 6: Assemble the Burger

Spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on each bun half. Layer the bottom buns with fresh lettuce and tomato slices, then add the juicy smashed chicken patty, followed by crispy bacon strips. Top with the other bun, and your Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon is ready to be enjoyed!

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

• Use a heavy spatula: To get that perfect smash and crispy edge, a sturdy spatula or a flat metal press works best.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook patties in batches to ensure a good sear without steaming the chicken.
• Rest patties briefly: Let the cooked patties rest for a minute before assembly so juices redistribute for maximum juiciness.
• Customize your spice: Mix your mayo with more or less hot sauce based on your heat preference—this is your burger.
• Choose fresh buns: A good-quality, soft bun holds everything together and complements the hearty filling perfectly.

How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Garnishes

Fresh toppings such as crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and optional pickles add crunch and brightness that balance the savory chicken and bacon flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve with classic fries, sweet potato wedges, coleslaw, or a simple green salad to round out your meal with added texture and freshness.

Creative Ways to Present

Try assembling mini sliders for a party platter or turning the burger into a salad bowl by replacing the bun with fresh greens for a lighter, low-carb version.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cooked chicken patties and bacon in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the spicy mayo separate to avoid soggy buns.

Freezing

You can freeze cooked chicken patties wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to keep the outside crisp and the inside juicy. Avoid microwaving to prevent rubbery texture.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of ground chicken?

Yes, but ground chicken is preferred because it has the right texture and fat content for smashing and forming juicy patties. Mince chicken breast finely or pulse in a food processor if using raw breast meat.

How spicy is the spicy mayo?

The heat level depends on the amount of hot sauce you add. Start with a small amount of sriracha and adjust to your preference to create a mild to fiery spicy mayo.

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

Smashing the chicken balls thinly and cooking them on a hot griddle without moving for a few minutes before flipping creates those irresistible crispy edges.

Can I substitute bacon for turkey bacon or omit it?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon or vegetarian bacon are great alternatives, or you can skip it altogether and add extra crunchy veggies like pickles or fried onions.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! You can prepare patties and spicy mayo ahead of time, then assemble fresh when ready to eat. Keep buns separate to prevent sogginess.

Final Thoughts

If you want a burger that combines crispy, juicy chicken with smoky bacon and a creamy spicy kick, this Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon is a must-try. It’s flavorful, quick, and easily customizable—perfect for any day you want something comforting but exciting. Go ahead and give this recipe a go; your taste buds will thank you!

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