If you’re searching for a fun and flavorful twist on your burger night, this Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe is an absolute game changer. Juicy ground chicken patties infused with glossy teriyaki sauce create the perfect savory base, while a crisp, refreshing sesame slaw adds a vibrant pop of crunch and tang. Finished with soft, buttery brioche buns and a dollop of creamy yum yum sauce, these burgers are bursting with layers of taste and texture. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a weekend gathering, this recipe delivers an irresistible combination that feels both fresh and indulgent.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering your ingredients for the Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe is both straightforward and rewarding. Each component plays a key role, whether it’s adding juicy flavor, satisfying crispness, or that perfect touch of sweetness and acidity.
- 1 lb. ground chicken: The lean, tender base for your burgers, perfect for soaking in the teriyaki flavors.
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce: Brings a glossy, umami-rich marinade that infuses the chicken patties with sweetness and depth.
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs: Adds structure and moisture retention to keep the patties juicy without falling apart.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: A subtle but essential boost of savory warmth.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors exceptionally.
- 2 cups shredded cabbage: Creates a crunchy, garden-fresh foundation for the slaw topping.
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil: Infuses the slaw with nutty aroma and rich flavor.
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar: Brings a bright, tangy kick to balance the slaw’s richness.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Rounds out the slaw’s flavor with a gentle touch of sweetness.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Brings out the natural crunch and freshness of the cabbage.
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional): Adds a mild oniony zest and vibrant green color to the slaw.
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil for frying: A neutral, high-smoke point oil perfect for crisping the burgers to golden perfection.
- 4 brioche buns: Soft and buttery buns that hold all the juicy goodness without overpowering it.
- 1/4 cup yum yum sauce (or your favorite alternative): Creamy, slightly spicy, and utterly addictive condiment to tie it all together.
How to Make Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe
Step 1: Make the Sesame Slaw
Start by combining shredded cabbage, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and chopped green onions in a bowl. Toss everything together gently to coat the cabbage evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—the slaw should be crisp, tangy, and just a little sweet to complement the rich burgers perfectly.
Step 2: Prepare the Burger Mixture
In a large bowl, mix ground chicken with teriyaki sauce, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and salt. Use your clean hands to combine everything well—this helps ensure even seasoning and a tender patty. Once the mixture holds together, shape it into 4 sizable burger patties, making sure they’re evenly thick for consistent cooking.
Step 3: Fry the Burgers
Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken patties and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the bottoms turn golden and the burgers are mostly cooked through. Flip and cook another 2 to 3 minutes on the other side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; they should reach at least 165°F in the center with no pink remaining.
Step 4: Toast the Buns
After cooking the burgers, wipe your skillet clean if needed. Place the brioche buns cut side down in the pan over medium-low heat, toasting just long enough to get a slight golden crust and warm the buns through. This step adds a lovely texture contrast and helps the buns hold up to the juicy filling.
Step 5: Assemble Your Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe
Spread yum yum sauce on both top and bottom buns to add creaminess and a little kick. Layer the burger patty on the bottom bun, then heap on the vibrant sesame slaw. Cap with the top bun, press gently, slice into it, and get ready to savor the perfect bite of sweet, savory, crunchy, and creamy goodness all at once.
How to Serve Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe
Garnishes
Feel free to get playful with garnishes! A sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds over the slaw or some extra chopped green onions can brighten up your plate visually and add a little burst of flavor. Thin slices of pickled ginger or a handful of fresh cilantro can also complement the Asian-inspired flavors.
Side Dishes
These burgers pair beautifully with simple sides that balance their richness. Think classic crispy fries or sweet potato fries for a comforting match. For a lighter option, serve alongside an Asian cucumber salad or a fresh fruit salad—it keeps the meal refreshing and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
To impress guests or just treat yourself, try serving your Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe on a rustic wooden board with small bowls of extra yum yum sauce and pickled veggies on the side. Wrapping each burger in parchment paper adds a casual charm and makes it easy to enjoy without the mess.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover chicken patties and slaw separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the slaw crisp and the patties juicy without getting soggy.
Freezing
You can freeze cooked burger patties for up to 2 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place in a zip-top freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to retain their texture.
Reheating
Reheat patties gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a 350°F oven until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the texture juicy and firm. Toast fresh buns and add fresh or leftover slaw just before serving.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or beef instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! While ground chicken gives a light, tender texture that pairs beautifully with teriyaki, ground turkey or even lean ground beef can be substituted for a different but equally delicious twist.
Is the sesame slaw spicy?
No, the sesame slaw in this recipe is not spicy; it’s crisp, tangy, and slightly sweet. But you can easily add heat with a splash of chili oil or some sliced fresh chilies if you like a bit of spice.
What can I use if I don’t have yum yum sauce?
If yum yum sauce isn’t on hand, mayonnaise mixed with a little sriracha, chili crisp, or even some sweet chili sauce works beautifully as a creamy, flavorful alternative.
Can these burgers be cooked on a grill?
Yes, grilling the patties over medium heat is a fantastic option and adds a smoky flavor. Just be sure to oil the grill grates well and cook the chicken thoroughly to 165°F.
How do I keep the burgers from falling apart?
The panko breadcrumbs help bind the patties, so be sure to mix them in evenly but gently. Avoid overworking the meat, and form patties that are compact but not too dense. Chilling them briefly before cooking can also help them hold their shape.
Final Thoughts
These Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe have become one of my absolute favorites for a reason—each bite is a harmony of juicy, sweet, tangy, and crunchy that feels both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe brings a special twist to burger night that’s sure to impress. Give it a try, and you might just find a new classic in your recipe repertoire.
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Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Asian-American Fusion
Description
These Chicken Teriyaki Burgers with Sesame Slaw offer a delicious twist on the classic burger by combining juicy ground chicken patties glazed with tangy teriyaki sauce and topped with a fresh, crunchy sesame slaw. Perfectly pan-fried and served on toasted brioche buns with a flavorful yum yum sauce, these burgers bring an Asian-inspired flair to your mealtime in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Teriyaki Burgers
- 1 lb. ground chicken
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil for frying
- 4 brioche buns
- 1/4 cup yum yum sauce (or mayo, sriracha, chili crisp, or preferred sauce)
For the Sesame Slaw
- 2 cups shredded cabbage
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions
- Make the Sesame Slaw: In a medium bowl, combine shredded cabbage, toasted sesame oil, rice vinegar, sugar, salt, and chopped green onions if using. Toss everything together well. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed to balance the flavor.
- Make the Burgers: In a large bowl, add ground chicken, teriyaki sauce, panko breadcrumbs, garlic powder, and salt. Mix thoroughly with clean hands until all ingredients are fully combined. Shape the mixture into 4 large burger patties.
- Fry the Burgers: Heat avocado oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken patties and cook for 3-5 minutes on one side until golden brown and mostly cooked through. Flip the burgers and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, ensuring they are fully cooked to no pink inside or an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Toast the Buns: Remove any burned bits from the skillet, then place the brioche buns cut side down in the same skillet over medium-low heat. Toast them briefly, just until they have a light golden crisp.
- Assemble Burgers: Spread a generous amount of yum yum sauce on both the top and bottom buns. Place a cooked chicken teriyaki burger on the bun bottom, then top with a portion of the sesame slaw. Place the top bun on and press slightly. Slice in half if desired and serve immediately.
Notes
- You can substitute ground chicken with ground turkey if preferred.
- For extra flavor, add a dash of freshly ground black pepper to the burger mixture.
- Customize the sauce on your burger to your taste by mixing mayo with sriracha or chili crisp.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, substitute panko breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken burgers reaches 165°F to ensure they are safe to eat.
- The sesame slaw can be made ahead of time and refrigerated to meld flavors.
