Name: Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Grilled Corn and Avocado Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 pound ground chicken; 1/2 cup panko bread crumbs; 1-2 tablespoons chopped chipotle in adobo; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Sea salt and black pepper, to taste; 4 slices cheddar cheese; Olive oil, for rubbing; 4 buns, toasted; 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped; 2 ears grilled corn, kernels removed; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; Sea salt, to taste; 1/2 cup mayonnaise; 1-2 tablespoons chopped chipotle in adobo; 2 tablespoons sweet Thai chili sauce; Sliced or mashed avocado

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 70 reviews

If you’re craving a burger that bursts with smoky, spicy, and fresh flavors, the Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Grilled Corn and Avocado Recipe will absolutely blow your mind. This recipe brings together juicy ground chicken patties infused with chipotle heat, melty sharp cheddar cheese, and the sweet crunch of grilled corn, all perfectly complemented by creamy avocado and a zesty mayo kick. It’s a backyard grill favorite that’s wonderfully vibrant, satisfying, and easy enough to whip up any night of the week. Trust me, once you try these burgers, they’ll become your go-to for a crowd-pleasing feast packed with bold flavors and amazing textures.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up image showing three grilled burger patties on a black grill pan with ridges. Two patties are topped with smooth, melted pale yellow cheese that drapes over their edges. The third patty, without cheese, shows distinct dark grill marks and bits of green herbs on its surface, giving it a textured look. The grill pan has shiny oil and slight smoke near the edges. The background is replaced by a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients for this recipe is straightforward but absolutely essential. Each component plays its part, from the smoky chipotle and sharp cheddar to the fresh cilantro and grilled corn, creating a harmony of taste, texture, and color that lights up every bite.

Ground chicken: The lean and mild protein that forms the juicy base of the burger patties.
Panko bread crumbs: Adds lightness and helps bind the chicken with a little crunch.
Chipotle in adobo (1-2 tablespoons): Delivers smoky heat that elevates the flavor without overpowering.
Smoked paprika (1 teaspoon): Deepens the smoky notes and adds subtle earthiness.
Chili powder (1 ½ teaspoons): Brings warming spice to the mix and the grilled corn topping.
Sea salt and black pepper: Simple seasoning to enhance every ingredient’s natural goodness.
Cheddar cheese slices (4): Mildly sharp and melty cheese that creates that irresistible gooey topping.
Toasted buns (4): Soft yet sturdy bread to hold all the fantastic fillings with a slight crunch.
Fresh cilantro (½ cup, chopped): Adds brightness and a green pop of freshness to the corn topping.
Grilled corn (2 ears, kernels removed): Sweet, smoky, and juicy kernels that add texture and color contrast.
Lime juice (2 tablespoons): Injects a zesty tang that balances the richness of the mayo and avocado.
Avocado (sliced or mashed): Creamy texture that cools down the chipotle spice and adds healthy fats.
Mayo (½ cup): Smooth and rich base for the spicy sauce that ties everything together.
Sweet Thai chili sauce (2 tablespoons): Adds a touch of sweetness and a gentle kick to the mayo sauce.

How to Make Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Grilled Corn and Avocado Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Patties

Start by combining the ground chicken with panko bread crumbs, chopped chipotle in adobo, smoked paprika, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, sea salt, and black pepper. The panko will keep the patties from getting dense, while the chipotle and spices infuse that signature smoky heat. Once everything is mixed thoroughly, shape the mixture into four even patties and give them a light rub of olive oil. This not only helps with grilling but also locks in moisture for juicy burgers.

Step 2: Grill the Burgers

Heat up your grill or a grill pan to medium-high. Cook the chicken patties for about 8-10 minutes on each side, flipping carefully to get beautiful grill marks and a crispy exterior. When the burgers are nearly done, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Let it melt for 1-2 minutes for a luscious cheesy finish that complements the smoky chipotle flavor perfectly.

Step 3: Make the Grilled Corn and Cilantro Mixture

While the burgers are grilling, prepare the fresh corn topping by mixing the grilled corn kernels with chopped cilantro, lime juice, ½ teaspoon chili powder, and a pinch of sea salt. The lime juice brightens the sweetness of the corn, the chili powder adds a subtle kick, and the cilantro brings freshness—resulting in the ultimate summer sideburst to your burger.

Step 4: Whip Up the Spicy Chipotle Mayo

In a small bowl, combine the mayo with 1-2 tablespoons of chopped chipotle in adobo and the sweet Thai chili sauce. This spicy mayo offers a creamy, tangy, and sweet balance that ties the whole burger together when spread on the toasted buns.

Step 5: Assemble Your Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Grilled Corn and Avocado Recipe

To build your burger, start with a toasted bun spread generously with the chipotle mayo. Layer on the cheesy chicken patty, then add a few slices or a scoop of mashed avocado. Top that with a hearty spoonful of the grilled corn and cilantro mix for a sensational crunch and flavor burst. Crown it with the top bun, and get ready to dive into pure burger bliss.

How to Serve Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Grilled Corn and Avocado Recipe

A close-up view of a sandwich made with a toasted ciabatta bun, showing two layers inside: the bottom layer is a golden-brown grilled patty with a creamy light orange sauce dripping slightly over the edges, followed by a layer of melted white cheese atop the patty. On top of the cheese are fresh green herbs and slices of avocado, along with pieces of grilled yellow corn with a slight char. The top bun is slightly tilted open, resting on a white marbled surface sprinkled with coarse salt. In the background, another similar sandwich sits on a wooden block, and two lime halves,one squeezed,are placed nearby. Fresh green basil leaves are scattered around. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh garnishes like extra cilantro leaves, thinly sliced red onions, or a few lime wedges on the side can really enhance the presentation and introduce fresh bursts of flavor that brighten each bite. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of chili powder on top can also add that finishing touch.

Side Dishes

Pairing these burgers with simple side dishes like crispy sweet potato fries, a zesty coleslaw, or a vibrant mixed greens salad keeps the meal balanced and refreshing while complementing the smoky and spicy notes of the burger. Grilled veggies or a light avocado salsa would also be perfect companions.

Creative Ways to Present

If you want to wow your guests, serve these burgers open-faced on a large platter and let everyone add their own toppings from bowls of avocado, grilled corn, and extra chipotle mayo. Alternatively, mini sliders made with the same mix can be fantastic for parties or casual bites. A colorful wooden board with all elements displayed adds a rustic, fun vibe sure to impress.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can store any leftover cooked chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the grilled corn and mayo sauce separate to preserve freshness and prevent sogginess.

Freezing

These burgers freeze beautifully. Wrap each cooked patty tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 2 months, making for a convenient, flavorful meal ready at a moment’s notice.

Reheating

Reheat frozen or refrigerated patties on a grill pan or in the oven at moderate heat until warmed through, making sure not to overcook and dry them out. Add fresh cheddar slices to melt again for that signature cheesiness. Avoid microwaving when possible to maintain texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?

Yes, ground turkey works great as a substitute and will yield similarly juicy burgers that absorb all the smoky chipotle spices beautifully.

How spicy are these Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Grilled Corn and Avocado Recipe?

The spice level is moderate and smoky thanks to the chipotle in adobo and chili powder. You can adjust the amount of chipotle based on your heat preference or omit it for a milder taste.

What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook these burgers another way?

Absolutely! You can cook the chicken patties in a grill pan, cast iron skillet, or even under the broiler in your oven. Just keep an eye to get a nice crust and ensure they cook through evenly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, simply substitute the panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Everything else in the recipe is naturally gluten-free.

Can I prepare any parts of this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can mix and form the chicken patties a day ahead and keep them refrigerated until ready to grill. The chipotle mayo sauce can also be prepared beforehand, making assembly quick and stress-free.

Final Thoughts

There really is something magical about the combination of smoky chipotle, melty cheddar, sweet grilled corn, and creamy avocado that makes the Chipotle Cheddar Chicken Burgers with Grilled Corn and Avocado Recipe a standout dish you’ll want to make again and again. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a sizzling cookout with friends, this recipe delivers bold flavor, fun textures, and vibrant colors that bring joy to every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it and share the love!