Juicy, barbecue-flavored, ground chicken burgers topped with aged white cheddar and gooey caramelized onions and wrapped in iceberg lettuce for a crispy, crunchy, low carb bun!
1lb.ground chickentry not to purchase chicken breast! it can dry out easily
¼cupbarbecue sauceI like vinegar-based with low sugar
¼cupshredded Unexpected Cheddar cheese or any white/aged cheddar
1tsp.paprika
1tsp.salt
1tsp.pepper
for burgers
1 yellow onionsliced thinly
1tbsp.oil
1tbsp.balsamic vinegar
1headiceberg lettuce washed
4 tbsp.shredded Unexpected Cheddar cheese or any white/aged cheddar
more barbecue sauce
Instructions
Combine & Form the Patties: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, BBQ sauce, shredded cheese, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix gently until chicken mixture is just combined. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers. Divide the mixture into four equal sections and form into patties.
Caramelize the Onions: While the patties chill, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add sliced onions and cook slowly, stirring occasionally, until softened and caramelized – about 15 minutes. A little patience goes a long way here! The slow cooking process allows the sugars in the onions to release, creating a beautiful golden brown color and a rich, sweet flavor. For an extra flavor boost, add a splash of balsamic vinegar towards the end of cooking.
Cook the Patties: Heat a grill pan or large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray and add the patties. Cook for 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through (165°F internal temperature).
Assemble & Enjoy!: While the burgers cook, prepare your iceberg lettuce "buns." Separate the lettuce head and wash the leaves. Carefully remove the core and chop the lettuce into thick wedges, about 1 inch wide. Lay the lettuce wedges on a sheet of parchment paper to prevent them from getting soggy.
Top it Off & Wrap it Up: Once the burgers are cooked and the onions are caramelized, it's time to assemble your masterpiece!
Serve: Place patties on toasted buns or on wedges of iceberg lettuce, topped with onions and additional bbq sauce!