Enjoy the classic flavors of chicken parmesan in a lighter, quicker format with these Ground Chicken Parmesan Burgers. Juicy ground chicken patties are seasoned with parmesan, grated onion and Italian seasoning, then topped with warm marinara, melty fresh mozzarella and bright basil. These burgers come together fast—about 20 minutes from start to finish—and make a satisfying, family-friendly dinner or game-day meal.
These Ground Chicken Parmesan Burgers are a great way to enjoy chicken parm without frying cutlets. Ground chicken keeps the patties lean while grated onion and a bit of parmesan add moisture and rich flavor. Top each burger with warm marinara and a slice of fresh mozzarella, finish with torn basil, and you have a handheld that tastes like Italian comfort food.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Bright, familiar chicken parmesan flavors in a lighter, quicker burger format.
- Ground chicken keeps the burgers lean while parmesan and grated onion add moisture and depth.
- Easy to prep ahead—shape patties the day before and cook when you’re ready.
- Low-carb and gluten-free friendly: serve in lettuce wraps or on a gluten-free bun.
Recipe ingredients
The ingredient list is straightforward and relies mostly on pantry staples. Swap freely based on what you have:
- Ground chicken – a lean protein that forms the patties; ground turkey is a fine substitute.
- Marinara sauce – homemade or store-bought, warmed before serving.
- Mozzarella & parmesan – fresh mozzarella slices melt beautifully; grated parmesan mixes into the meat for flavor and a touch of fat.
- Grated onion – adds moisture and blends into the meat so patties stay tender.
- Italian seasoning – or a mix of dried oregano and thyme.
- Fresh basil – adds a finishing bright note and color; best used fresh.
How to make Ground Chicken Parmesan Burgers
These burgers are quick and forgiving. You can prep the patties in advance and simply cook when ready.
Pro tip: Make the marinara a few days ahead or use a favorite store-bought jar. Shaped patties keep well in the fridge for 1–2 days.
- In a medium bowl combine 1 lb ground chicken, 1/4 cup grated parmesan, 1/4 cup grated onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning and salt and pepper to taste. Mix gently until just combined.
- Form into four even patties. Season both sides with kosher salt and black pepper.
- Heat 1 tablespoon oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat, or preheat the grill to medium and oil the grates. Cook patties 4 minutes per side, or until an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C) is reached.
- During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of fresh mozzarella and allow to rest off heat for a few minutes so the cheese softens.
- Place patties on buns or lettuce wraps, spoon warm marinara over the cheese, scatter chopped fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Recipe FAQs
What’s the difference between a chicken sandwich and a chicken burger?
A chicken sandwich typically uses a whole chicken breast (grilled or fried), while a chicken burger is made from ground chicken formed into patties.
How do you keep ground chicken moist?
Because ground chicken is lean, add ingredients that contribute moisture and a little fat: grated onion, parmesan cheese, or a spoonful of mayo or Greek yogurt. Don’t overcook—remove patties at 160°F and let rest.
How should I cook ground chicken so it doesn’t dry out?
Avoid overcooking and include moisture-adding ingredients. Cook to the safe internal temperature (160°F) and allow the patties to rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving suggestions
These chicken parm burgers pair well with classic sides or lighter vegetable options. Ideas:
- Grilled corn on the cob or a simple orzo salad for a cookout.
- Grilled sweet potato fries, oven-roasted baby potatoes, or crispy baked zucchini chips.
- A fresh green salad—massaged kale or butter lettuce keeps things bright and balanced.
- Serve in lettuce wraps or on a gluten-free bun for a low-carb version.
Recipe notes
- Make ahead: Shape patties 1–2 days ahead and refrigerate. Cooked burgers keep up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- Substitutions: Use ground turkey if preferred. If fresh mozzarella isn’t available, shredded mozzarella works, though slices melt most attractively.
- Cooking alternatives: You can bake patties at 400°F for about 12–15 minutes, flipping halfway through, then top with cheese until melted.
- Low-carb option: Skip the bun and serve on big lettuce leaves with extra basil and marinara.
More burger recipes you’ll love
- Grilled turkey burgers
- Smash burger recipe
Ground Chicken Parmesan Burgers
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought), warmed
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup grated onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or 1/2 tsp table salt)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 4 slices fresh mozzarella
- 1/3 cup chopped fresh basil
- 4 hamburger buns or lettuce leaves
Instructions
- Combine ground chicken, parmesan, grated onion, garlic and Italian seasoning in a medium bowl. Mix gently until combined and form into four patties. Season with salt and pepper.
- Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat or preheat the grill to medium. Cook patties 4 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 160°F (71°C).
- Warm the marinara while the burgers cook.
- Remove patties from heat, top each with a slice of mozzarella and let rest a couple of minutes so the cheese softens.
- Assemble burgers on buns or lettuce, spoon on marinara, add fresh basil, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Prepare marinara a few days ahead or use a favorite jarred sauce.
- Shape patties 1–2 days in advance for easy weeknight cooking.
- Cooked burgers keep up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Nutrition (per burger, approximate)
Calories: 441 kcal • Carbohydrates: 26 g • Protein: 33 g • Fat: 23 g
Note: This recipe was originally posted in April 2016. Photos and text have been updated to include step-by-step images and clearer instructions.