🍔 Smashed Chicken Burgers with Harissa Tahini Sauce: A Flavor-Packed Twist on Classic Burgers 🥙

by

✨ 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

  1. In a bowl, combine ground chicken, soy sauce, paprika, garlic powder, and pepper.
  2. Divide into 4 loose balls (they’ll smash thin).

2. SMASH & Sear

  1. Heat oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high.
  2. Add a chicken ball, press with a spatula (or use parchment + heavy pan) to smash flat.
  3. 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.

Leave a Comment