Go Back

Air Fryer Ground Chicken Burgers - Juicy, Quick, and Better Than Takeout

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground chicken (93–96% lean is ideal)
  • 1/4 cup grated onion (with juices)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt (or to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
  • Buns and toppings: toasted brioche or whole-wheat buns, lettuce, tomato, red onion, pickles
  • Sauce options: mayo, spicy mayo, honey mustard, BBQ, or yogurt-based sauce
  • Cooking spray (for the air fryer basket)

Method
 

  1. Preheat the air fryer: Set it to 375°F (190°C) for 5 minutes so the basket is hot when the patties go in.
  2. Mix the burger base: In a large bowl, add ground chicken, grated onion, garlic, egg, breadcrumbs, Dijon, olive oil, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, onion powder, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently until just combined.
  3. Form the patties: Lightly wet your hands and shape the mixture into 4 equal patties, about 1/2-inch thick. Make a shallow indent in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
  4. Prep the basket: Spray the air fryer basket with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  5. Cook the burgers: Place patties in a single layer with a little space between them. Air fry for 10–12 minutes at 375°F, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). No flipping is necessary, but you can flip at the 8-minute mark for deeper browning.
  6. Toast the buns (optional): After removing the burgers, add buns to the air fryer for 1–2 minutes at 350°F to warm and lightly toast.
  7. Rest, then assemble: Let the patties rest for 2–3 minutes to lock in juices. Build your burgers with your chosen toppings and sauce.