✨ Introduction
Tired of the same old beef burgers? These Smashed Chicken Burgers with Harissa Tahini Sauce are a game-changer! Juicy, crispy-edged chicken patties meet a creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce for an unforgettable bite. Perfect for weeknight dinners, BBQs, or meal prep—this recipe is quick, healthy(ish), and bursting with flavor.
In this post, we’ll cover:
- 🔥 Why smashed chicken burgers? (Crispy vs. thick debate)
- 🧂 Key ingredients for maximum flavor & texture
- 👩🍳 Step-by-step instructions (with crispy-edge secrets)
- 🌶️ Harissa tahini sauce breakdown (plus substitutions)
- 🍽️ Serving ideas & storage tips
🔥 Why Smashed Chicken Burgers?
- Crispy edges (like a diner-style burger) from the smash technique
- Faster cooking (thin patties = no dry centers)
- Lighter than beef but still satisfying
- Perfect for saucy toppings (no bun sogginess!)
🧂 Ingredients
For the Smashed Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken (thighs for juiciness, breast for leaner)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (umami boost)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for smashing/searing)
For the Harissa Tahini Sauce:
- 1/4 cup tahini
- 1 tbsp harissa paste (adjust for spice)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp honey
- 2 tbsp water (to thin)
- Salt to taste
To Serve:
- Brioche buns (or lettuce wraps)
- Pickled red onions
- Arugula
- Extra harissa drizzle
👩🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Mix & Shape Patties
- In a bowl, combine ground chicken, soy sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.
- Divide into 4 loose balls (they’ll smash thin).
2. SMASH & Sear
- Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high.
- Add a chicken ball, press with a spatula (or use parchment + heavy pan) to smash flat.
- Cook 3-4 mins per side until crispy and 165°F internal temp.
3. Make the Sauce
Whisk all sauce ingredients until smooth. Add water as needed.
4. Assemble!
- Toast buns, spread sauce, add patty, top with pickled onions and arugula.
🌶️ Sauce Variations
- Mild: Use roasted red pepper paste instead of harissa.
- Extra creamy: Add Greek yogurt.
- Zingy: Throw in chopped preserved lemon.
🍽️ Serving Ideas
- Meal prep: Keep patties and sauce separate for quick lunches.
- Low-carb: Serve in lettuce cups.
- Sidekick: Pair with sweet potato fries or a cucumber salad.
🔥 Pro Tips
✅ Don’t overmix the chicken (keeps it tender).
✅ Smash immediately when the patty hits the pan.
✅ Use a fish spatula for easy flipping.