Name: Ground Chicken Burgers with Apple Slaw Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1/2 pound ground chicken; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon yellow mustard; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh, chopped); 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 green apple, grated; 1/2 green apple, grated; 1/4 head green cabbage, shredded; 4 tablespoons mayonnaise; 2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar; 1/4 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; 2 whole wheat burger buns, split and toasted

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you are searching for a delightful way to put a fresh spin on your burger night, this Ground Chicken Burgers with Apple Slaw Recipe is an absolute game changer. Juicy ground chicken patties infused with fragrant rosemary and tangy mustard sit atop toasted whole wheat buns, perfectly complemented by a crisp, colorful apple slaw. This dish masterfully balances savory and sweet flavors with textures that keep every bite exciting. It’s simple enough to whip up on a busy evening yet impressive enough to share with friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up of two chicken sliders stacked with a golden-brown sesame seeded bun on top and bottom; the bottom layer is a thick, textured chicken patty with a light brown cooked exterior, topped with a creamy white coleslaw mixed with green herbs layered just beneath the top bun. The sliders sit on a white marble surface scattered with small bits of coleslaw and parsley. In the background, there are two clear glasses with slices of lemon inside, softly blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe plays a crucial role—from the juicy, lean ground chicken forming the tender patties to the bright, crisp apples providing a refreshing crunch in the slaw. These components come together beautifully with pantry staples and fresh herbs to create a harmonious and satisfying meal.

1/2 pound ground chicken: Choose quality ground chicken for moist, flavorful patties.
2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds creaminess to both the burger mix and apple slaw for luscious texture.
1 tablespoon yellow mustard: Brings a subtle tang that brightens the flavor of the burger filling.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh): Infuses the patties with a fragrant, earthy aroma that complements the chicken.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Enhances the natural flavors throughout the recipe.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to balance the mildness of ground chicken.
1 green apple (grated): Divided between the burger mixture and slaw, providing a crisp sweetness that pairs perfectly with savory elements.
2 whole wheat burger buns (split and toasted): Offers a nutty base and satisfying texture for holding the juicy burger and slaw.
1/4 head of green cabbage (shredded): Adds crunch and color to the apple slaw for a refreshing finish.
4 tablespoons mayonnaise: This extra mayo in the slaw brings richness and comfort to each bite.
2 tablespoons rice wine vinegar: Lends a subtle acidity that lifts the flavors in the slaw.
1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances the slaw’s components perfectly.
1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper: Provides a touch of warmth and depth to the slaw.
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley: Brightens the slaw with a burst of herbal freshness and vibrant green color.

How to Make Ground Chicken Burgers with Apple Slaw Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture

Begin by combining the mayonnaise, yellow mustard, rosemary, salt, and freshly ground black pepper in a small bowl. Then grate half of the green apple right into this mixture for natural sweetness and moisture. Stir everything together thoroughly, creating a beautifully seasoned base that will ensure juicy patties full of flavor.

Step 2: Add Ground Chicken and Form Patties

Gently fold the ground chicken into the apple and mayo mixture. Be careful not to overmix so that the patties stay tender and juicy. Once combined, divide the mixture into two equal portions and shape each into a patty. This step is where your burger really starts to take shape!

Step 3: Grill the Patties

Hand off your meticulously formed patties to someone manning the grill (or do it yourself!). Cook them slowly over a low flame, aiming for 5 to 7 minutes on each side. This slow and steady cooking method ensures the chicken remains moist and thoroughly cooked. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches a safe 165 degrees Fahrenheit before removing the patties.

Step 4: Make the Apple Slaw

While the burgers cook, it’s the perfect moment to whip up that vibrant apple slaw. Grate the remaining half of the apple and thinly shred the green cabbage. In a serving bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, rice wine vinegar, salt, and pepper to create a luscious dressing. Toss in the grated apple, cabbage, and freshly chopped parsley, mixing everything until evenly coated. Allow the slaw to rest for a few minutes so the flavors meld beautifully.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once your burgers are perfectly grilled and apple slaw is ready, it’s time for the grand assembly. Toast your whole wheat buns lightly for extra crunch and warmth. Place a juicy chicken patty on each bun bottom, pile on a generous helping of the apple slaw, and crown it with the top bun. Serve immediately to enjoy the delightful combination of textures and flavors at their best.

How to Serve Ground Chicken Burgers with Apple Slaw Recipe

A close-up of two chicken burgers shows a toasted sesame seed bun on top and bottom. The bottom bun holds a thick, light brown grilled chicken patty with a slightly rough texture. On top of the patty is a layer of creamy white coleslaw mixed with small green herbs, adding specks of color. The burger is set on a white marbled surface with some green herbs sprinkled around, with the second burger blurred in the background and a glass with a lemon slice behind it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate this dish even more, consider fresh garnishes such as thin slices of ripe avocado, a sprinkle of smoked paprika on the slaw, or fresh microgreens for an extra pop of color and flavor. These little details add excitement and make the burgers look as good as they taste.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs wonderfully with light, crisp sides like oven-baked sweet potato fries, a simple cucumber salad, or grilled asparagus. The bright apple slaw on your burgers complements these sides perfectly without overwhelming your palate, making for a balanced meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the classic bun! Try serving your Ground Chicken Burgers with Apple Slaw Recipe in lettuce wraps for a low-carb twist or stack mini slider versions for a fun appetizer at your next gathering. You could even serve the slaw on the side as a fresh salad if you prefer the burgers uninterrupted.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover ground chicken patties and apple slaw should be stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This prevents the slaw from wilting while ensuring the patties keep their moisture and flavor for up to two days after cooking.

Freezing

The raw ground chicken patties can be frozen before cooking. Place them on a parchment-lined tray and freeze until firm, then transfer to a sealed freezer bag. They will keep well for up to three months. It’s best not to freeze the apple slaw, as it’s freshest when served cold and crisp from the fridge.

Reheating

Reheat leftover cooked patties gently in a skillet over medium heat to preserve juiciness without drying them out, or warm in the oven wrapped in foil. The apple slaw is best served chilled and fresh, so enjoy it straight from the fridge without reheating.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this recipe and will provide a similar texture and flavor profile. Just keep the cooking technique the same to ensure juicy results.

What type of apple is best for the slaw?

Green apples are ideal because their tartness balances the mayonnaise and cabbage perfectly. Granny Smith is a classic choice here, but feel free to try others like Honeycrisp if you want a sweeter touch.

How do I prevent the burgers from falling apart?

Be sure to gently mix the ingredients and avoid overworking the meat. Using mayo and mustard as binding agents also helps hold everything together during grilling.

Can I make the slaw in advance?

Yes! The slaw actually tastes better after resting for at least 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Just keep it refrigerated until serving.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

If you swap the whole wheat buns for a gluten-free alternative or lettuce wraps, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free without sacrificing flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Ground Chicken Burgers with Apple Slaw Recipe is one of those wonderful meals that feels fresh and homemade, yet effortlessly delicious. With its impeccable balance of savory, tangy, and sweet, it’s guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen. Don’t wait—give it a try and savor every juicy bite alongside that vibrant apple slaw. You won’t regret it!