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    Hungry Healthy Happy » Recipes » Chicken

    Baked Chicken Burger with Basil Sauce

    Published: Oct 24, 2020 by Dannii · This post may contain affiliate links · 48 Comments

    607 shares
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    Jump to Recipe

    Crispy breaded chicken breast with a smoky seasoning, sandwiched between a brioche burger bun with our epic creamy lemon and basil sauce. You don't need to fry chicken to get it nice and crispy and this Baked Chicken Burger with Creamy Lemon and Basil Sauce is a healthier alternative to fast food and 10 times tastier too. A delicious twist for burger night.

    Two chicken burgers with fries and dip on a wooden serving board.

    If you love crispy KFC burgers, then you are going to LOVE these. (Have you tried our Healthier KFC recipe?) Instead of deep fried breaded chicken, we have baked ours and it is still crispy perfection. Succulent lean chicken breast in a seasoned breading and all your favourite burger toppings. But, this chicken burger is a next level burger with our creamy lemon and basil sauce.

    Jump to:
    • Why you will love it
    • Ingredients needed
    • Step by step
    • Breading flavours
    • Burger toppings
    • Serving suggestions
    • FAQs
    • Extra tips
    • More burger recipes
    • Recipe
    • Feedback

    Why you will love it

    • Baked instead of fried
    • A healthier twist for burger night
    • A delicious way to eat lean chicken breast
    • Easy to adapt with all your favourite burger toppings

    Ingredients needed

    All the ingredients needed to make a baked chicken burger
    • Chicken breast - this is what keeps the burgers nice and lean. You could swap breast for thigh, and that would make it juicier. Use skinless and boneless chicken thigh if you are going to swap it. If a whole chicken breast is too big for you for the burger (these are pretty epic), then you can cut one in half to use for both burgers.
    • Breadcrumbs - this is what helps the chicken burgers to get nice and crispy. We used slices from a wholemeal loaf, however if you want to get these burgers even crispier then you can use panko breadcrumbs. When using wholemeal bread, try to use slightly stale bread, as it makes better breadcrumbs.
    • Flour - you don't have to use flour in the dredging process, but we find it helps. The flour will stick to the chicken, allowing the egg to then stick to the flour and therefore the breadcrumbs can hold better to the egg.
    • Egg
    • Cheese - this is kind of a must when it comes to a burger topping. We used a mature cheddar, however you could use mozzarella, Gouda or even some goats cheese. You could add lots of extra flavour with some pepperjack cheese.
    • Greek yogurt - this is the base of the creamy sauce. Using a reduced fat Greek yogurt on our baked chicken burgers is an easy way to lighten them up a little, rather than using a mayo heavy sauce. You could always use half yogurt and half mayo, if you wanted something a little more indulgent.
    • Garlic - this sauce is pretty garlic heavy, but we like it that way. Feel free to use less garlic.
    • Lemon - a great way to lighten the whole burger up a bit with a zesty twist. Add even more of a lemony flavour to it by using zest as well as the juice.
    • Basil - lemon and basil are a delicious flavour combo. However, you could swap the basil for another fresh herb like dill or chives.
    • Burger bun - as tempting as it might be just to use any ole' bread roll, it's worth using something really good quality. It does hold the whole burger together after all. We used a seeded brioche burger bun, which is nice and buttery.
    • Lettuce and tomato - we love a bit of crunch in our burger bun and this is an easy way to do it. Go for a really ripe and juicy beef tomato and crunchy little gem lettuce. You can use other lettuce, but something with plenty of crunch is good for adding texture.

    A full ingredients list with measurements is in the recipe card below.

    Step by step

    One: Put the chicken on to a chopping board and gently pound until they flatten a little. Coat the chicken in flour then dip in the egg and then in the breadcrumbs to coat.

    Bowls of flour, whisked egg and breadcrumbs next to coated chicken breasts.

    Two: Put on a lined baking tray and put in a preheated over at 220°C/425°F/Gas 7 for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked.

    Two breaded chicken breasts on a lined baking tray.

    Three: In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, garlic, salt and pepper, lemon and basil.

    A bowl of yogurt based sauce.

    Four: 5 minutes before the chicken is ready, top with cheese and put back in the oven to melt it.

    Two breaded chicken breasts with cheese slices on them.

    Five: Build your burger with sauce, lettuce, tomato, the chicken and more sauce.

    Two chicken burgers on a serving board.

    Breading flavours

    We love adding some herbs and spices to the breadcrumbs to give it extra flavour. We used just a little paprika and garlic powder, however you can use your favourite flavour combination.

    Why not give these burgers a Mexican twist with some fajita seasoning, or you could use a spicy Cajun seasoning. Prefer something herby? They a mix or dried basil and oregano will work.

    Burger toppings

    What is a burger without toppings? Boring, that's what! Toppings don't have to add loads of calories though, so we have some healthy burger topping options, and some not so healthy (or nutrient dense) toppings.

    • Lettuce - This adds lots of crunch to the burger. We used little gem lettuce, as it adds colour too, but you could use iceberg, rocket or even spinach.
    • Tomato - A juicy addition to a burger. We used a beef tomato, however you could swap it for sundried tomatoes for an intense tomato burst.
    • Red onion - This adds some nice crunch to a burger. If you don't like raw onion, then you could fry it a little first, to soften in.
    • Coleslaw - Why serve coleslaw on the side when you could have it right there in the burger. Not only does it add lots of crunch and flavour, but it could act as the sauce too.
    • Bacon - Do we really need to say any more? Chicken and bacon is such an amazing combination when it comes to burgers.
    • Hash browns - Take this burger to the next level with some hash browns. Why not make our Oven Baked Hash Browns.
    • Mushrooms - We love mushrooms in a burger. Either fry up some chopped brown mushrooms, or grill a whole portobello mushroom to add.
    • Fries onions - Caramelised balsamic onions on a burger are amazing. Cook them low and slow - it's worth the wait.
    • Avocado - This adds so much creaminess and a little freshness to the chicken burgers.
    • Jalapenos - If you love a kick of spice on your burger, then add some sliced pickled jalapeños.

    Serving suggestions

    Burgers and fries are just the perfect match. Why not try our Garlic Baked Potato Wedges, Baked Sweet Potato Wedges or The Best Air Fryer Fries. If you want something a little lighter, then our Baked Carrot Fries are a great choice.

    Other great burger sides include No Mayo Coleslaw, Baked Polenta Fries, The Best Greek Potatoes, Mustard Potato Salad, Oven Baked Hash Browns, Grilled Corn with Herb Butter.

    If the creamy lemon and basil sauce isn't your thing, then why not try our Homemade Healthy Tomato Ketchup or our Healthy BBQ Sauce.

    Breaded chicken topped with cheese in a sesame seed brioche bun with lettuce and tomato.

    FAQs

    Are chicken burgers healthy?

    Healthy is such a subjective word, however these chicken burgers are definitely healthier than the fried chicken burgers that you would get from a takeaway. We have baked them rather than fry them and also used Greek yogurt to make the creamy sauce.

    How many calories in a baked chicken burger?

    The burger patty itself is just 240 calories. When you add the bun, toppings and sauce then it is 420 calories. The total calories for your burger will really depend on what toppings you are using.

    Can you use chicken thighs as a burger?

    Yes, you could swap chicken breasts for thighs and you would get a much juicier burger, although thighs tend to be used more when frying. Use boneless and skinless chicken thigh and you might not need as much breading. This will change the nutritional information though.

    Do I have to pound the chicken breast first?

    Yes, you should definitely pound the chicken breast first. Not only does this ensure that the chicken is an even size and therefore cooked evenly, it also tenderises the meat and helps it to not be tough and chewy. We did this with a rolling pin, however you could use a mallet or just a heavy pan.

    Can I fry the chicken instead of baking it?

    Yes, you can definitely fry these burgers if you want them extra juicy and crispy. This will change the nutritional information considerably though. It will take around 6 minutes to fry, flipping half way through. 

    How long to cook chicken burgers for?

    We baked ours in the oven for 30 minutes, however it will depend on your oven. The best way to check if it is cooked all the way through is to use a meat thermometer at the thickest part. Chicken breast should have an internal temperature of 75°C/165°F

    Can you serve chicken burgers without the bun?

    If you want a low carb version of this, then you could leave out the bun. You could serve it as it is, or use a giant lettuce leaf to wrap around it.

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    Extra tips

    • You could make a low carb version of these by skipping the bun and using a giant lettuce leaf to hold the burger and toppings together.
    • You can get an even crispier burger, and still bake it, by using Panko breadcrumbs.
    • Swap chicken breast for boneless and skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier burger.
    • Make sure you pound the chicken first, as this tenderises it and ensures that it cooks evenly.
    • If you want a more indulgent burger sauce, then you can swap the Greek yogurt for mayo.

    More burger recipes

    • Chicken Pesto Burgers
    • Spiced Lamb Burger with Tzatziki & Chilli Jam
    • Pork and Apple Burgers
    • Greek Turkey Burgers

    Recipe

    Baked chicken burger in a brioche bun with lettuce and tomato

    Baked Chicken Burger with Basil Sauce

    You don't need to fry chicken to get it nice and crispy and these Crispy Baked Chicken Burgers with a Creamy Lemon and Basil Sauce are a healthier alternative to fast food and 10 times tastier too.
    5 from 41 votes
    Author: Dannii
    Pin Print Save recipe Recipe saved!
    Course: Main Course
    Cuisine: American
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Cook Time: 30 minutes
    Total Time: 40 minutes
    Allergens:
    An illustration of a carton of milk.
    Dairy
    An illustration of a cracked egg.
    Eggs
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    Gluten
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    Meat
    Servings: 2 servings
    Calories: 420kcal
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    Ingredients

    UK Metric Measures - US Customary Measures

    For the chicken

    • 200 g Chicken breast
    • 2 tablespoon plain flour
    • 1 Egg - beaten
    • 2 slices Whole wheat bread - blitzed in to breadcrumbs
    • 1 pinch Sea salt and black pepper

    For the sauce

    • 4 tablespoon Greek yogurt
    • 2 Garlic clove - crushed
    • 1 Lemon - (juice only)
    • 2 tablespoon Fresh basil - finely chopped
    • 1 pinch Sea salt and black pepper

    To serve

    • 2 burger buns - lightly toasted
    • lettuce
    • tomato
    • 2 cheese slices

    Instructions

    • Put the chicken on to a chopping board and gently pound until they flatten a little. Coat the chicken in flour then dip in the egg and then in the breadcrumbs to coat.
    • Put on a lined baking tray and put in a preheated over at 220°C/425°F/Gas 7 for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked.
    • In a bowl, mix together the yogurt, garlic, salt and pepper, lemon and basil.
    • 5 minutes before the chicken is ready, top with cheese and put back in the oven to melt it.
    • Build your burger with sauce, lettuce, tomato, the chicken and more sauce.

    Notes

    • You could make a low carb version of these by skipping the bun and using a giant lettuce leaf to hold the burger and toppings together.
    • You can get an even crispier burger, and still bake it, by using Panko breadcrumbs.
    • Swap chicken breast for boneless and skinless chicken thighs for an even juicier burger.
    • Make sure you pound the chicken first, as this tenderises it and ensures that it cooks evenly. 
    • If you want a more indulgent burger sauce, then you can swap the Greek yogurt for mayo.

    Nutritional Information

    Serving: 1burger, bun, cheese and sauce | Calories: 420kcal | Carbohydrates: 43g | Protein: 42g | Fat: 13g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 160mg | Sodium: 692mg | Potassium: 686mg | Fiber: 5g | Sugar: 7g | Vitamin A: 648IU | Vitamin C: 32mg | Calcium: 324mg | Iron: 4mg
    DisclaimerThe nutritional information provided is approximate and is calculated using online tools. Information can vary depending on various factors, but we have endeavoured to be as accurate as possible.

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    Reader Interactions

    Comments

    1. Leeroy

      June 08, 2021 at 7:04 pm

      5 stars
      Thank you! You gave a 45 year old none-cook a wee ego boost, partner loved it too, fab... just fab

      Reply
      • Dannii

        June 08, 2021 at 7:51 pm

        So glad you both enjoyed it :)

        Reply
    2. Maria

      October 24, 2020 at 5:38 pm

      5 stars
      As in WOW! Perfect! I want to try this asap!!! Thank you for sharing <3 I'm drooling! :P

      Reply
      • Andrea Metlika

        October 24, 2020 at 6:34 pm

        5 stars
        What a fabulous looking burger. Love that the chicken is baked and that you add cheese on top.. then that basil sauce on top is just perfection.

        Reply
    3. Amanda Marie Boyle

      October 24, 2020 at 4:22 pm

      This sauce is fantastic! I could eat it on almost anything!

      Reply
    4. Nathan

      October 24, 2020 at 3:55 pm

      5 stars
      WOW, this looks delicious! Especially that sauce, I think I'll be putting that on even more than just these sandwiches!

      Reply
    5. Brianna

      October 24, 2020 at 3:49 pm

      5 stars
      Love this healthy version of a chicken sandwich, that basil sauce is fantastic!

      Reply
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    My name is Dannii. Here you will find easy family recipes with a healthy twist.
    Established in 2011, Hungry Healthy Happy has become one of the UK's most popular food blogs, with two successful recipe books published.

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