How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

If you crave the perfect balance of crispy, juicy chicken with a kick of spicy mayo and the irresistible crunch of bacon, then this Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon is exactly what your taste buds need. This recipe brings together the best of bold flavors and comforting textures in a homemade burger that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. Whether for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend treat, this burger delivers every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bold Flavor Explosion: Combining crispy chicken, smoky bacon, and zesty spicy mayo creates a symphony of taste in every bite.
• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward ingredients and clear steps, even busy cooks can pull this recipe together quickly.
• Perfect Texture Contrast: Smash-fried chicken gives a crunchy exterior with tender inside, complemented by crisp bacon and creamy sauce.
• Customizable Heat Level: You control how spicy the mayo gets, making this burger suitable for every palate.
• Great for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a backyard barbecue, this burger fits right in.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic behind this Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon lies in a handful of key components that provide flavor, texture, and color. Each ingredient plays an important role to ensure every bite is memorable and delicious.

• Chicken thighs or breast: Use skinless, boneless chicken for juicy, tender meat that crisps up beautifully when smashed.
• Bacon strips: Adds a smoky crunch that elevates the burger’s rich flavor profile.
• Mayonnaise: A creamy base that balances the spice and adds moisture.
• Hot sauce or chili paste: Creates the spicy mayo component that brings heat and excitement.
• Hamburger buns: Soft yet sturdy buns hold everything together without getting soggy.
• Butter or oil: For frying the chicken to golden perfection and toasting buns for extra flavor.
• Salt and freshly ground pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance natural flavors.
• Fresh lettuce and tomato slices: For crunch, freshness, and a pop of color.

Variations for Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Don’t be afraid to play around with this Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon! Whether you have specific dietary preferences or want to experiment with new flavors, it’s easy to make this recipe your own.

• Use turkey or plant-based patties: Substitute chicken with ground turkey or vegan patties for different protein choices.
• Swap smoky bacon for turkey bacon: A leaner, but still flavorful alternative that keeps the crunch.
• Add cheese slices: Cheddar, pepper jack, or mozzarella melt beautifully on top for an extra creamy touch.
• Adjust spice level: Add more chili paste or a splash of sriracha to turn up the heat or reduce it for a milder bite.
• Include pickles or jalapeños: Give your burger a tangy or spicy twist with some crunchy pickles or sliced jalapeños.

How to Make Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Step 1: Prepare the Spicy Mayo

In a small bowl, combine mayonnaise with your choice of hot sauce or chili paste. Mix well until smooth and creamy. Adjust the spiciness based on your preference by adding a little at a time. Set aside in the refrigerator for flavors to meld.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

In a skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon strips until crispy. Transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Keep the bacon drippings in the pan for added flavor when cooking the chicken.

Step 3: Smash and Cook the Chicken

Lightly oil the skillet and heat over medium-high heat. Place your chicken pieces in the pan and use a spatula or heavy spoon to firmly press (“smash”) the chicken, spreading it out thinly. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes on one side until golden and crispy, then flip and cook an additional 2-3 minutes until cooked through.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

Butter the hamburger buns lightly. Toast them in the same pan or on a griddle until golden brown and slightly crispy. This step ensures your buns hold up against juicy fillings without turning soggy.

Step 5: Assemble the Burger

Spread a generous layer of spicy mayo on both the top and bottom buns. Add fresh lettuce and tomato slices to the bottom bun. Place the smashed chicken on top, followed by crispy bacon. Cap the burger with the top bun and press lightly to hold it together.

Pro Tips for Making Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

• Use chicken thighs for juiciness: Thigh meat stays moist better than breast but still crisps nicely when smashed.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook the chicken in batches for an even sear instead of steaming pieces together.
• Chill patties briefly if possible: This helps them hold shape better when smashing on the skillet.
• Make your spicy mayo ahead: Allowing it to chill enhances the depth of flavor.
• Press spatula firmly: Smashing properly creates the signature thin, crispy crust.

How to Serve Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon

Garnishes

Fresh lettuce and ripe tomato slices add crunch and color, balancing the richness of chicken and bacon. A few pickle slices or red onion rings can bring acidity and extra zing.

Side Dishes

Classic pairings with crispy fries or seasoned potato wedges work beautifully. Consider a light coleslaw or fresh garden salad for a refreshing contrast to the rich burger.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the burger open-faced with a side of dipping sauce, or slice into halves and secure with toothpicks as a fun shareable appetizer. Wrapping in parchment paper adds a rustic touch for casual meals.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover cooked chicken and bacon separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, to maintain the best texture and freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked chicken patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Bacon freezes well if wrapped tightly, but fresh is best.

Reheating

Reheat chicken patties in a skillet over medium heat to regain crispiness rather than microwaving to prevent sogginess. Reheat bacon quickly in a pan or microwave with paper towel to keep it crispy.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, chicken breast works fine but tends to be leaner and can dry out if overcooked, so watch cook times carefully and consider marinating for extra moisture.

How spicy is the spicy mayo?

The level of spice depends on the hot sauce or chili paste you use; start with small amounts and adjust to taste for mild to fiery heat.

Can I make this burger gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free buns and check that all sauces and seasonings are gluten-free to keep this recipe safe for gluten-sensitive diets.

Is it better to smash cooked or raw chicken?

Smashing the chicken in the raw state directly on the skillet helps achieve a crispy crust quickly while keeping inside tender.

What’s the best bacon type to use?

Thick-cut bacon provides a hearty, satisfying crunch and flavor, but regular-cut bacon will also work well and cook faster.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a homemade Smash Chicken Burger with Spicy Mayo & Bacon that combines ultimate comfort food with bold flavors and satisfying textures. Easy to customize and quick to make, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite for busy nights or when you want to impress friends and family with minimal effort. So fire up your skillet and get ready to indulge in this crispy, spicy, bacon-loaded delight. Your taste buds will thank you!

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