Pesto Chicken Burger

Ingredients

Ground chicken

1 pound

Pesto

1/2 cup, store-bought or homemade

Salt

1/2 teaspoon

Black pepper

1/4 teaspoon, freshly ground

Mozzarella cheese

4 slices, fresh or shredded

Burger buns

4, toasted

Lettuce

4 leaves, crisp and fresh

Tomato

1, sliced

Olive oil

1 tablespoon, for grilling

Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken and pesto. Season the mixture with salt and pepper, mixing gently until just combined. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
2. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, ensuring they are slightly larger than the burger buns as they will shrink while cooking.
3. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium heat and add the olive oil to lightly grease the surface.
4. Cook the patties for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of mozzarella cheese. Cover the grill or pan to help the cheese melt beautifully.
6. While the patties are cooking, toast the burger buns lightly on the grill until golden brown.
7. Assemble the burgers by placing each patty on a toasted bun. Top with a fresh lettuce leaf and a slice of tomato.
8. Serve the burgers hot with your favorite sides, such as sweet potato fries or a crisp green salad.