If you love the flavors of fajitas and the satisfaction of biting into a juicy burger, you’re going to adore these Chicken Fajita Smash Burgers. Not only do they combine the smoky, spicy elements of a classic fajita, but they’re also made in just 15 minutes! These burgers are perfect for a fast, protein-rich meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you top them with chipotle mayo, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole, these burgers will become a go-to favorite in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Serves 1: A single-serving recipe that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, but easily doubled or tripled for a crowd.
- 574 Calories per serving: A filling, balanced meal that’s great for when you’re craving something indulgent but still packed with nutrients.
- 44.7g of Protein per serving: Loaded with protein to keep you full and energized, this meal is ideal for those looking to increase their protein intake.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 160g chicken mince: Chicken mince is lean and high in protein, making it the perfect base for these burgers.
- 1/2 onion, finely sliced: Adds sweetness and a bit of texture to complement the other fajita flavors.
- 1/2 red pepper, finely sliced: Brings a touch of sweetness and color to the mix.
- 20g grated cheese: I used Red Leicester, but feel free to use your favorite cheese—cheddar or Monterey Jack would work beautifully too.
- 1 tbsp fajita seasoning: This is where the classic smoky and spicy fajita flavor comes from.
- 1 tsp chipotle paste: Adds an extra kick of smoky heat.
- 1 brioche bun, sliced and toasted: Soft, slightly sweet, and toasted for a perfect crunch.
- Chipotle mayo: A quick sauce made from 30g light mayo, 1/2 tsp chipotle paste, and a squeeze of lime juice.
- A handful of shredded lettuce: For some crunch and freshness to balance out the richness of the burger.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Sauté the peppers and onions:
Spray a pan with olive oil spray and heat it over high heat. Add the onions and peppers, along with a pinch of salt. Fry for about 5 minutes, or until they are soft and slightly charred around the edges. This will give them that delicious caramelized flavor that pairs so well with the fajita seasoning. Once done, remove from the pan and set aside. - Prepare the chicken mince:
In a bowl, combine the chicken mince, fajita seasoning, and chipotle paste. Mix everything together until well combined, then divide the mixture into two 80g balls. These will be your burger patties, and the smash burger technique will ensure they cook quickly and develop a nice crispy exterior. - Cook the smash burgers:
Using the same pan as the one you used for the peppers and onions, add the chicken mince balls. Place a piece of baking paper over each ball and press down firmly to flatten them into patties. This method helps create those classic smash burger crispy edges. Cook over high heat for a few minutes on each side until cooked through. - Melt the cheese:
Once the patties are cooked, top each one with grated cheese. Add a small splash of water to the pan, then cover it with a lid. The steam will help the cheese melt perfectly over the patties, making them extra gooey and delicious. - Assemble the burger:
Now for the fun part! Spread your chipotle mayo onto the toasted brioche bun. Layer the bottom half with some shredded lettuce for a refreshing crunch, then add the cheesy chicken patties. Top with the sautéed onions and peppers, and finally place the top of the bun on your masterpiece. - Enjoy:
Take a moment to admire your Chicken Fajita Smash Burger, then dive right in! With every bite, you’ll get a burst of spicy, smoky, cheesy goodness that’s balanced by the fresh lettuce and soft brioche bun.
Why This Burger is a Must-Try
What makes these Chicken Fajita Smash Burgers so irresistible is the combination of fajita-inspired flavors in burger form. The fajita seasoning and chipotle paste bring bold, smoky heat, while the sautéed onions and peppers add sweetness and depth. The smash burger technique creates crispy edges on the chicken patties, and the melted cheese pulls everything together for a truly indulgent experience. And, of course, that soft brioche bun makes each bite feel extra special.
Extra Tips:
- Customize your toppings: While the chipotle mayo is a delicious addition, you can mix it up with your favorite fajita toppings. Try adding salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or even some extra jalapeños for heat.
- Make it lower-carb: If you’re watching your carbs, swap out the brioche bun for a lettuce wrap or a low-carb bun.
- Meal prep: You can easily prepare the chicken patties and sautéed veggies in advance, then assemble the burger fresh when you’re ready to eat.
Final Thoughts:
These Chicken Fajita Smash Burgers are a quick and delicious way to satisfy your burger cravings with a fun fajita twist. In just 15 minutes, you’ll have a high-protein, flavor-packed meal that’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or even meal prep. Whether you keep it simple with chipotle mayo or load it up with your favorite toppings, this burger is sure to become a regular in your kitchen.
Happy Cooking!