If you’re hunting for the ultimate flavor-packed delight, this smash chicken burger with spicy mayo bacon is your new go-to. Juicy, crispy, and loaded with bold, zesty flavors, it’s the perfect feast for any meal or weekend BBQ. Combining tender smashed chicken patties with smoky bacon and a creamy, spicy mayo, this burger delivers crave-worthy satisfaction in every bite. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will quickly become a household favorite you’ll want to share with all your friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Every bite bursts with the perfect balance of juicy chicken, smoky bacon, and creamy spicy mayo.
- Quick and Easy: Smash chicken patties cook fast, making this burger ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily tweak toppings or spice levels to suit your mood or dietary needs.
- Perfect Texture: Crispy edges from smashing the chicken contrast beautifully with a tender, juicy interior.
- Great for Entertaining: This burger always impresses guests and makes BBQs or casual dinners feel special.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward ingredients come together to create a dish that is both rich in flavor and pleasing in texture. Each item plays a key role, from the tender chicken to the smoky bacon and creamy spicy mayo that ties it all together.
- Chicken thighs: Juicy and flavorful, these provide the perfect base for the smashed patties.
- Bacon strips: Adds a smoky crunch that contrasts wonderfully with the tender chicken.
- Spicy mayo: A creamy, tangy, and spicy spread that elevates the entire burger.
- Burger buns: Soft but sturdy, ideal for holding all the ingredients without falling apart.
- Lettuce and tomato slices: Fresh and crisp, balancing the richness with bright, natural flavors.
- Salt and pepper: Essential simple seasonings that enhance the natural flavors of the chicken.
- Cooking oil or butter: For searing the patties perfectly and adding richness.
- Optional pickles or onions: For an added tangy crunch or sharpness that complements the burger.
Variations for smash chicken burger with spicy mayo bacon
This smash chicken burger with spicy mayo bacon is incredibly adaptable. Whether you want to lighten it up, switch up the spice, or add a twist to suit your tastes, making it your own couldn’t be easier!
- Swap chicken thighs for breasts: Use chicken breasts if you prefer a leaner option without sacrificing juiciness.
- Make it extra spicy: Add more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to your mayo for that serious heat kick.
- Dairy-free alternative: Use a vegan mayo or avocado spread if you want to keep it dairy-free but creamy.
- Add cheese: Melt cheddar, pepper jack, or smoked gouda on the patty for a rich, indulgent layer.
- Swap bacon for turkey bacon: A lighter option that still gives you that smoky, savory crunch.
How to Make smash chicken burger with spicy mayo bacon
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties
Start by finely chopping or grinding chicken thighs and seasoning them generously with salt and pepper. Form the chicken into loose balls about the size of a golf ball, but don’t compact them too tightly to keep the texture tender.
Step 2: Smash the Patties
Heat a cast-iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add a little oil or butter for searing. Place one ball of chicken into the pan, and using a sturdy spatula or a flat metal press, firmly smash the chicken down into a thin patty. This technique creates crispy, delicious edges while ensuring a juicy inside.
Step 3: Cook the Bacon
While you cook the chicken patties, fry the bacon in a separate pan until it’s perfectly crispy. Drain on paper towels to remove excess fat, then set aside.
Step 4: Flip and Finish Cooking Patties
After cooking the first side until golden and crisp (about 3-4 minutes), flip the patties and cook for another 2-3 minutes or until fully cooked through. You can place a slice of cheese on top now if desired so it melts.
Step 5: Prepare the Spicy Mayo
Whisk together mayonnaise, your favorite hot sauce or chili paste, and a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Adjust the heat level to your preference, then set aside.
Step 6: Assemble the Burger
Lightly toast the buns for extra texture. Spread a generous spoonful of spicy mayo on both top and bottom buns. Layer lettuce, tomato slices, the crispy smashed chicken patty, and smoky bacon. Top with the bun lid and press lightly.
Pro Tips for Making smash chicken burger with spicy mayo bacon
- Use chicken thighs: Their higher fat content locks in moisture and flavor better than breasts.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: Smash and cook in batches for a perfect sear and crispiness.
- Use a sturdy spatula: A metal one works best for that classic smash and crispy edges.
- Toast your buns: Adds crunch and helps prevent sogginess from the mayo.
- Adjust spice to taste: Start mild and add chili or hot sauce gradually for customized heat.
How to Serve smash chicken burger with spicy mayo bacon
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes like crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onions add brightness and balance to this rich burger. A few crunchy pickles also bring a delightful tang and texture contrast.
Side Dishes
Classic fries or sweet potato wedges are perfect companions for this burger. For a lighter touch, a crisp garden salad or coleslaw provides a refreshing counterpoint to the smoky, spicy flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the smash chicken burgers on colorful brioche buns or even lettuce wraps for a low-carb option. You can also build mini sliders for party appetizers or stack with multiple layers of cheese and bacon for a decadent treat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover patties and bacon wrapped tightly in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store buns separately to avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Patty leftovers freeze well; place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a sealed bag for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat patties and bacon in a skillet over medium heat to maintain crispness. Avoid microwaving directly to keep the texture intact. Toast the buns fresh before assembling your burger again.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used but be sure not to overcook them as they dry out faster. Thighs provide extra juiciness and flavor.
How spicy is the spicy mayo?
The heat level depends on how much hot sauce or chili paste you add, so start small and adjust to your taste.
What kind of bacon works best?
Thick-cut bacon crisps nicely and gives great smoky flavor, but any quality bacon will work well in this recipe.
Can I make this burger dairy-free?
Absolutely! Use a dairy-free mayo and skip the cheese or opt for a plant-based alternative.
What’s the best cooking surface for smashing the patties?
A cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed frying pan is ideal to achieve that crisp, caramelized crust on the patties.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a burger that’s juicy, packed with flavor, and layered with irresistible spicy mayo and smoky bacon, this smash chicken burger with spicy mayo bacon is calling your name. Simple ingredients, quick prep, and endless customization make it an unbeatable choice for any occasion. Give it a try and watch it become a fast favorite you’ll want to make again and again.