Looking for a burger that’s packed with fresh, seasonal ingredients and loaded with vibrant flavors? These Chicken, Zucchini, and Fresh Corn Burgers are the perfect answer! Combining juicy ground chicken with garden-fresh zucchini, sweet corn kernels, and a variety of colorful vegetables, these burgers are not only wholesome but also deliciously satisfying. Topped with a refreshing Tomato-Cucumber Relish and served with a tangy Greek yogurt sauce, this dish will easily become a summer favorite. Whether served as a light lunch or dinner, these burgers bring a fresh twist to traditional burgers without sacrificing any flavor.
Ingredients for the Greek Yogurt Sauce:
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 teaspoons grated lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
Ingredients for the Burgers:
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1 medium zucchini, coarsely chopped
- Kernels from 1 ear of fresh corn (husks and silk removed)
- ½ medium red bell pepper, finely chopped
- 3 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- ½ cup panko bread crumbs
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 3-4 tablespoons olive oil, for searing
Ingredients for the Tomato-Cucumber Relish:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, quartered
- ⅓ medium seedless English cucumber, finely diced
- 2 green onions, finely sliced
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Make the Greek Yogurt Sauce:
In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, grated lemon zest, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, and salt. Mix until smooth and well-combined. Cover the sauce and refrigerate it while you prepare the burgers to allow the flavors to meld. - Prepare the Tomato-Cucumber Relish:
In another small bowl, combine the quartered cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced green onions, cilantro, garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt. Stir well, then cover and set the relish aside. This refreshing topping will add a fresh crunch to the burgers. - Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, blend together the ground chicken, chopped zucchini, fresh corn kernels, finely diced red bell pepper, sliced green onions, beaten egg, panko breadcrumbs, cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, coriander, salt, and pepper. Mix everything thoroughly with your hands or a spatula, taking care not to overwork the mixture. - Shape the Burgers:
With slightly oiled hands, form the mixture into 4-6 burger patties, depending on the size you prefer. Make sure the patties are about ¾ inch thick for even cooking. Place them on a plate and let them rest for about 10 minutes to help them firm up. - Sear the Burgers:
Heat 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, gently add the patties to the skillet. Cook the burgers for 4-5 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through (the internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C). If needed, cook the burgers in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. - Serve:
To assemble, place each chicken, zucchini, and corn burger on a plate, top with a generous dollop of the Greek yogurt sauce, and spoon some Tomato-Cucumber Relish on top. Garnish with extra cilantro, if desired. These burgers are great on their own or can be served on toasted buns or lettuce wraps for a more traditional presentation.
Conclusion:
These Chicken, Zucchini, and Fresh Corn Burgers offer a delightful blend of fresh vegetables, herbs, and spices, creating a nutritious and flavorful alternative to traditional burgers. The tangy Greek yogurt sauce and refreshing Tomato-Cucumber Relish provide the perfect contrast to the savory patties, making this dish a well-balanced meal. Whether you’re hosting a summer BBQ or just looking for a healthy, flavorful option, this recipe will bring the bright, fresh taste of the season to your table. Enjoy these juicy, veggie-packed burgers guilt-free!