Chicken Zucchini & Fresh Corn Burgers are the kind of light, juicy, summer-perfect handheld meal that instantly elevates any backyard BBQ, weeknight dinner, or sunny patio lunch. These patties combine ground chicken with shredded zucchini, crisp sweet corn, aromatics, and bright seasonings for a burger that’s both refreshing and incredibly satisfying.
The zucchini keeps the patties tender and juicy, while the corn adds bursts of sweetness that make each bite vibrant and fun. They cook beautifully on the stovetop or grill, staying moist inside with golden edges outside. Whether served on buns, in lettuce wraps, or alongside your favorite sides, these burgers bring fresh flavor, wholesome comfort, and a playful seasonal twist everyone will crave.
Equipment You Will Need
- Mixing bowls
- Box grater or food processor
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Skillet or grill
- Spatula
- Paper towels
- Large spoon or scoop
- Baking sheet
Ingredients List
- For the Burger Patties
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 medium zucchini, shredded and squeezed dry
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (from 1–2 ears) or frozen/thawed
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup finely chopped onion
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
- For Serving
- Burger buns or lettuce wraps
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomato
- Sliced avocado
- Mayo, chipotle mayo, or garlic aioli
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by preparing the vegetables. Shred the zucchini using the large holes of a grater, then place it in a clean towel or paper towels and squeeze out as much moisture as possible. This prevents watery patties and helps them hold their shape.
Cut the corn from the cob if using fresh kernels and set them aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded zucchini, corn, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion, parsley, and all seasonings. Use clean hands or a sturdy spoon to blend until everything is evenly incorporated without overmixing.
Form the mixture into patties of your desired size—usually four to six burgers depending on thickness. If the mixture feels sticky, wet your hands to shape the patties more easily. Place the formed patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet while finishing the rest.
Preheat a large skillet over medium heat and drizzle with olive oil. Once hot, gently transfer the patties into the pan, leaving space between each. Cook for 4–5 minutes per side until deeply golden and cooked through to 165°F internally.
If grilling, oil the grates well and grill the patties over medium heat, flipping carefully since chicken burgers are more delicate than beef. Once the patties are cooked and beautifully browned, remove them from the heat and allow them to rest for a minute. Warm the buns in the skillet or on the grill for an extra touch of texture. Assemble your burgers with lettuce, tomato, avocado, and your favorite sauces, or enjoy them on lettuce wraps for a lighter option.
Expert Tips for Success
Removing moisture from the zucchini is one of the most important steps, as wet vegetables can prevent the patties from binding properly. Squeezing thoroughly ensures your burgers cook evenly and maintain their shape. Binding ingredients like egg and breadcrumbs help give structure without making the patties heavy or dense. If the mixture still seems too loose, add one to two extra tablespoons of breadcrumbs until it firms slightly.
Ground chicken tends to be sticky, so shaping patties with wet hands or a lightly oiled scoop makes the process easier.
Cooking the patties over medium heat prevents burning while allowing the centers to cook fully. For grilling, using a lightly oiled grill mat or foil with holes helps keep delicate patties from sticking or falling apart. Letting the patties rest briefly after cooking helps juices settle for maximum tenderness.
Variations and Substitutions
Add shredded carrot or finely diced red bell pepper for extra color and a touch of sweetness. Swap fresh parsley for cilantro and add lime zest for a vibrant, Southwestern-style variation.
For a spicy version, mix in diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or chipotle powder. A Mediterranean twist works beautifully with crumbled feta, dill, and oregano added directly into the mix.
Use panko breadcrumbs for a lighter texture or gluten-free breadcrumbs to accommodate dietary needs. For extra juiciness, stir in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or a small amount of grated onion.
Replace smoked paprika with chili powder for a warm, earthy flavor shift. Serve with tzatziki instead of mayo for a refreshing twist that pairs beautifully with the vegetables in the patties.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
Serve these burgers on toasted brioche buns for a soft, buttery contrast, or use whole wheat buns for a wholesome, hearty feel. Lettuce wraps are an excellent option for low-carb meals, adding crunch without competing with the patty’s flavors.
Top your burgers with sliced tomato, creamy avocado, crisp greens, or crunchy red onion to create layers of texture and color. Drizzle with chipotle mayo, garlic aioli, or tangy yogurt sauce to enhance the patty’s natural flavors.
Pair the burgers with sides like sweet potato fries, grilled vegetables, or fresh corn salad for a vibrant summer plate.
A chilled pasta salad or quinoa bowl adds balance and makes the meal feel more festive. If serving for a BBQ, accompany the burgers with baked beans, coleslaw, or watermelon slices for a refreshing touch. These burgers also shine alongside light soups or roasted potatoes for a cozy, satisfying combination.
Storage, Freezing, and Reheating
Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. Reheat them gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water and covering the pan to keep them moist.
The microwave works as well, though reheating in short bursts helps maintain tenderness. Serve reheated burgers with fresh toppings to restore brightness and crunch.
Freeze uncooked patties by placing them on a baking sheet until firm, then transferring them to freezer bags. Separate layers with parchment to prevent sticking.
Cook frozen patties directly from the freezer, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Cooked patties can also be frozen and reheated in a skillet, oven, or air fryer until warmed through. Proper storage ensures these burgers remain juicy and delicious even days or weeks later.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned corn?
Yes—drain well to remove excess moisture.
Can I bake the patties instead of frying?
Absolutely—bake at 400°F for 18–22 minutes, flipping once.
What’s the best binder for chicken burgers?
Egg and breadcrumbs ensure perfect texture and shape.
Can I use turkey instead of chicken?
Yes—ground turkey works beautifully with the same method.
