When the dinner rut hits hard and you’re staring longingly into the abyss of your refrigerator, forget the sad, dry poultry pucks of the past. Only the vibrant, spicy, and unexpectedly deliciousThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgerscan rescue your evening. This incredible recipe transforms ordinary ground turkey into an absolute flavor bomb, delivering a perfect balance of savory spices and sweet heat. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a flavor passport stamped with deliciousness, proving that turkey burgers don’t have to be boring. Prepare yourself for the ultimate weeknight hero that will make your taste buds perform a spontaneous, enthusiastic dance routine.
- These burgers are incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight chaos when time is short and hunger is enormous.
- The unique flavor profile blends fragrant ginger and cilantro with a tangy lime kick, perfectly complementing the sweet chili glaze.
- Visually stunning, the glistening sweet chili sauce gives these savory patties a beautiful, caramelized sheen right off the grill or skillet.
- The recipe is highly adaptable, working beautifully served on toasted brioche buns, lettuce wraps, or over a vibrant salad bowl.
The Accidental Genius of the Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
My quest for the perfect turkey burger began, as all great culinary adventures do, purely out of necessity and mild panic. I had invited friends over for a casual backyard grill session, promising “something exotic,” only to realize fifteen minutes before they arrived that I had completely forgotten to buy beef. All I had was a pound of ground turkey, a container of questionable sweet chili sauce lurking in the back of the pantry, and a heap of self-doubt. Necessity, truly, is the mother of invention—or in this case, the mother of a truly revolutionary burger.
I threw every aromatic ingredient I could find into the mix: fresh ginger, plenty of cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a generous splash of the sticky, sweet-spicy sauce. The result was pure, unadulterated alchemy. These burgers defy the typical lean, bland reputation of ground turkey. They are moist, packed with robust flavor, and carry just the right amount of heat to make you want to reach for a second bite immediately. They were so good, in fact, that my friend asked if I had quit my job to become a secret flavor consultant for a high-end restaurant chain. I highly recommend embracing the chaos and giving these a try; they are proof that great food often comes from the most unexpected circumstances.
Building the Perfect Turkey Patty
The secret to preventing the dreaded dry turkey burger is twofold: moisture retention and flavor infusion. When mixing the ground turkey, resist the urge to overwork the meat. Gentle mixing ensures the proteins don’t tighten up, which keeps the patties tender. We introduce essential binders and flavor boosters like breadcrumbs and egg, but the real heroes are the aromatics. Fresh grated ginger and finely chopped cilantro not only inject that signature Thai-inspired fragrance but also release essential oils that coat the meat, keeping it succulent during cooking.
Temperature control is also paramount. Whether you’re grilling them outside over medium heat or using a cast-iron skillet, keep the heat steady. Cooking them too fast at high heat will leave the outside charred and the inside dry. Medium heat allows the interior to cook through slowly while the outside develops a beautiful, crispy crust. The final sweet chili glaze, applied towards the end of the cooking process, caramelizes slightly, locking in moisture and delivering that irresistible sticky finish that defines theThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgersexperience.
Ingredients for Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground TurkeyOpt for 93% lean ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and moisture without excess grease.
- BreadcrumbsUse plain breadcrumbs or panko to act as a binder, helping the patties hold their shape and retaining moisture.
- EggA single large egg helps emulsify the mixture and keeps all the ingredients perfectly bound together during handling and cooking.
- Fresh GingerEssential for that pungent, aromatic kick; grate it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the meat mixture.
- CilantroChop this herb finely for a burst of fresh, bright, citrusy flavor that is crucial to the Southeast Asian profile.
- Lime JuiceJust a squeeze adds necessary acidity to brighten the overall flavor and cut through the richness of the meat.
- Garlic Powder and Onion PowderThese powdered aromatics provide deep, savory background flavor without adding excessive moisture.
- Thai Sweet Chili SauceThe star of the show; choose a high-quality bottle for the ideal sticky, sweet, and moderately spicy glaze.
- Buns and ToppingsUse sturdy brioche buns, or large lettuce cups, and consider toppings like sliced cucumbers or a crunchy slaw.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep the Aromatics and Mixing Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, grated fresh ginger, finely chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting the mixing process. This preparation minimizes handling time, which is crucial for tender patties.
Step 2: Gently Form the Patties
Using clean hands, gently mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Overmixing results in tough burgers. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and lightly form them into patties, making sure to create a shallow thumbprint indentation in the center of each. This indentation prevents the burger from bulging in the middle during cooking.
Step 3: Cooking the Turkey Burgers
Preheat your grill or a large skillet (cast iron works beautifully) over medium heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking. Cook the turkey patties for approximately 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Glazing with Sweet Chili Sauce
During the last two minutes of cooking, brush a generous layer of the Thai sweet chili sauce onto the top of each burger patty. Flip them carefully and brush the sauce onto the other side, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly and become sticky. This step is essential for creating the signature glossy finish and intense flavor.
Step 5: Toasting the Buns
While the burgers rest briefly, lightly toast your chosen buns face-down on the skillet or grill for about 60 seconds until golden brown. This adds a necessary structural element and depth of flavor, preventing the bun from becoming soggy under the juicy patty and sauce.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sweet chili sauce for the perfect finishing touch before adding your favorite crunchy toppings.
Beyond the Bun: Serving Suggestions and Flavor Pairings
While the traditional bun is certainly welcome, the intense flavor profile of these burgers opens the door to numerous creative serving options. Because theThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgersare so aggressively flavorful—a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, salty, and sour—they pair beautifully with clean, crunchy, and slightly acidic sides that can offer a textural contrast. Think light, fresh, and slightly cooling elements to balance the heat.
Creative Serving Ideas
If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative or just want to feel virtuous while devouring something delicious, try wrapping the patties in large, crisp lettuce cups, such as butter lettuce or romaine. This turns the burger into a refreshing, handheld wrap, allowing the intense flavor of the patty to really shine. Alternatively, you can serve the burger crumbled over a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice, topped with thinly sliced carrots, cucumber, and a sprinkle of crushed roasted peanuts—turning it into a deconstructed rice bowl perfect for a hearty lunch.
For a side dish that truly complements the Asian inspiration, whip up a quick cucumber and rice vinegar salad. Simply slice cucumbers thinly, mix them with a small amount of rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and a few chili flakes. The sharpness and cooling effect of the salad act as the perfect palate cleanser between bites of the sticky, warm burger. Another excellent pairing is oven-baked sweet potato fries tossed with a touch of five-spice powder for an unexpected aromatic kick.
Mastering Moisture and Make-Ahead Prep
One of the best attributes of this recipe is its flexibility for meal prepping. You can prepare the burger mix up to 24 hours in advance. After combining all the ingredients, form the patties, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. Allowing them to rest slightly actually deepens the flavor, as the aromatics have more time to infuse into the turkey meat. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about ten minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
If you have leftover cooked patties—a rare occurrence, I must warn you—they reheat exceptionally well. Slice them up and add them cold to a salad, or gently warm them in a pan with a little extra sweet chili sauce to refresh the glaze. The robust combination of ginger, lime, and chili means the flavor holds up wonderfully, making these a phenomenal addition to any weekly rotation. These burgers are truly a testament that dinner doesn’t have to be boring, nor does it have to be complicated, even when you’re starting with humble ground turkey.
When the dinner rut hits hard and you’re staring longingly into the abyss of your refrigerator, forget the sad, dry poultry pucks of the past. Only the vibrant, spicy, and unexpectedly deliciousThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgerscan rescue your evening. This recipe transforms ordinary ground poultry into an absolute flavor bomb, delivering a perfect balance of savory spices and sweet heat. This isn’t just dinner; it’s a flavor passport stamped with deliciousness, proving that turkey burgers don’t have to be boring. Prepare yourself for the ultimate weeknight hero that will make your taste buds perform a spontaneous, enthusiastic dance routine.
- These burgers are incredibly quick to prepare, perfect for weeknight chaos when time is short and hunger is enormous.
- The unique flavor profile blends fragrant ginger and cilantro with a tangy lime kick, perfectly complementing the sweet chili glaze.
- Visually stunning, the glistening sweet chili sauce gives these savory patties a beautiful, caramelized sheen right off the grill or skillet.
- The recipe is highly adaptable, working beautifully served on toasted brioche buns, lettuce wraps, or over a vibrant salad bowl.
The Accidental Genius of the Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
My quest for the perfect turkey burger began, as all great culinary adventures do, purely out of necessity and mild panic. I had invited friends over for a casual backyard grill session, promising “something exotic,” only to realize fifteen minutes before they arrived that I had completely forgotten to buy beef. All I had was a pound of ground turkey, a container of questionable sweet chili sauce lurking in the back of the pantry, and a heap of self-doubt. Necessity, truly, is the mother of invention—or in this case, the mother of a truly revolutionary burger.
I threw every aromatic ingredient I could find into the mix: fresh ginger, plenty of cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a generous splash of the sticky, sweet-spicy sauce. The result was pure, unadulterated alchemy. These burgers defy the typical lean, bland reputation of ground turkey. They are moist, packed with robust flavor, and carry just the right amount of heat to make you want to reach for a second bite immediately. They were so good, in fact, that my friend asked if I had quit my job to become a secret flavor consultant for a high-end restaurant chain. I highly recommend embracing the chaos and giving these a try; they are proof that great food often comes from the most unexpected circumstances.
Building the Perfect Turkey Patty
The secret to preventing the dreaded dry turkey burger is twofold: moisture retention and flavor infusion. When mixing the ground turkey, resist the urge to overwork the meat. Gentle mixing ensures the proteins don’t tighten up, which keeps the patties tender. We introduce essential binders and flavor boosters like breadcrumbs and egg, but the real heroes are the aromatics. Fresh grated ginger and finely chopped cilantro not only inject that signature Thai-inspired fragrance but also release essential oils that coat the meat, keeping it succulent during cooking.
Temperature control is also paramount. Whether you’re grilling them outside over medium heat or using a cast-iron skillet, keep the heat steady. Cooking them too fast at high heat will leave the outside charred and the inside dry. Medium heat allows the interior to cook through slowly while the outside develops a beautiful, crispy crust. The final sweet chili glaze, applied towards the end of the cooking process, caramelizes slightly, locking in moisture and delivering that irresistible sticky finish that defines theThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgersexperience.
Ingredients for Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground TurkeyOpt for 93% lean ground turkey for the best balance of flavor and moisture without excess grease.
- BreadcrumbsUse plain breadcrumbs or panko to act as a binder, helping the patties hold their shape and retaining moisture.
- EggA single large egg helps emulsify the mixture and keeps all the ingredients perfectly bound together during handling and cooking.
- Fresh GingerEssential for that pungent, aromatic kick; grate it finely so it distributes evenly throughout the meat mixture.
- CilantroChop this herb finely for a burst of fresh, bright, citrusy flavor that is crucial to the Southeast Asian profile.
- Lime JuiceJust a squeeze adds necessary acidity to brighten the overall flavor and cut through the richness of the meat.
- Garlic Powder and Onion PowderThese powdered aromatics provide deep, savory background flavor without adding excessive moisture.
- Thai Sweet Chili SauceThe star of the show; choose a high-quality bottle for the ideal sticky, sweet, and moderately spicy glaze.
- Buns and ToppingsUse sturdy brioche buns, or large lettuce cups, and consider toppings like sliced cucumbers or a crunchy slaw.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep the Aromatics and Mixing Bowl
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, breadcrumbs, egg, grated fresh ginger, finely chopped cilantro, lime juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Ensure all ingredients are ready before starting the mixing process. This preparation minimizes handling time, which is crucial for tender patties.
Step 2: Gently Form the Patties
Using clean hands, gently mix the ingredients just until they are combined. Overmixing results in tough burgers. Divide the mixture into four equal portions and lightly form them into patties, making sure to create a shallow thumbprint indentation in the center of each. This indentation prevents the burger from bulging in the middle during cooking.
Step 3: Cooking the Turkey Burgers
Preheat your grill or a large skillet (cast iron works beautifully) over medium heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface to prevent sticking. Cook the turkey patties for approximately 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until they are cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Glazing with Sweet Chili Sauce
During the last two minutes of cooking, brush a generous layer of the Thai sweet chili sauce onto the top of each burger patty. Flip them carefully and brush the sauce onto the other side, allowing the sauce to caramelize slightly and become sticky. This step is essential for creating the signature glossy finish and intense flavor.
Step 5: Toasting the Buns
While the burgers rest briefly, lightly toast your chosen buns face-down on the skillet or grill for about 60 seconds until golden brown. This adds a necessary structural element and depth of flavor, preventing the bun from becoming soggy under the juicy patty and sauce.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with any remaining sweet chili sauce for the perfect finishing touch before adding your favorite crunchy toppings.
Beyond the Bun: Serving Suggestions and Flavor Pairings
While the traditional bun is certainly welcome, the intense flavor profile of these burgers opens the door to numerous creative serving options. Because theThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgersare so aggressively flavorful—a harmonious blend of sweet, spicy, salty, and sour—they pair beautifully with clean, crunchy, and slightly acidic sides that can offer a textural contrast. Think light, fresh, and slightly cooling elements to balance the heat.
Creative Serving Ideas
If you’re looking for a low-carb alternative or just want to feel virtuous while devouring something delicious, try wrapping the patties in large, crisp lettuce cups, such as butter lettuce or romaine. This turns the burger into a refreshing, handheld wrap, allowing the intense flavor of the patty to really shine. Alternatively, you can serve the burger crumbled over a bowl of fragrant jasmine rice, topped with thinly sliced carrots, cucumber, and a sprinkle of crushed roasted peanuts—turning it into a deconstructed rice bowl perfect for a hearty lunch.
For a side dish that truly complements the Asian inspiration, whip up a quick cucumber and rice vinegar salad. Simply slice cucumbers thinly, mix them with a small amount of rice vinegar, a pinch of sugar, and a few chili flakes. The sharpness and cooling effect of the salad act as the perfect palate cleanser between bites of the sticky, warm burger. Another excellent pairing is oven-baked sweet potato fries tossed with a touch of five-spice powder for an unexpected aromatic kick.
Mastering Moisture and Make-Ahead Prep
One of the best attributes of this recipe is its flexibility for meal prepping. You can prepare the burger mix up to 24 hours in advance. After combining all the ingredients, form the patties, wrap them individually in plastic wrap, and store them in the refrigerator. Allowing them to rest slightly actually deepens the flavor, as the aromatics have more time to infuse into the turkey meat. Just remember to let them sit at room temperature for about ten minutes before cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
If you have leftover cooked patties—a rare occurrence, I must warn you—they reheat exceptionally well. Slice them up and add them cold to a salad, or gently warm them in a pan with a little extra sweet chili sauce to refresh the glaze. The robust combination of ginger, lime, and chili means the flavor holds up wonderfully, making these a phenomenal addition to any weekly rotation. These burgers are truly a testament that dinner doesn’t have to be boring, nor does it have to be complicated, even when you’re starting with humble ground turkey.
The Accidental Discovery of Sunshine on a Plate

I needed dinner fast but only had ground turkey and a forgotten jar of sweet chili sauce lurking in the pantry. Expecting sheer mediocrity, I combined them out of desperation. The result was a shockingly bright, flavor-packed burger that tasted like summer vacation on a bun. It was a culinary accident I’ll happily repeat forever.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
For flawless results, mix the patties quickly using a gentle hand to avoid toughness. Sear them on medium-high heat first; this locks in the precious turkey juices and builds that crucial flavor crust. Finish them in the oven, or on low heat, ensuring they reach 165°F (74°C) without turning into sad, dry disks.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap ground turkey for lean ground chicken or beef if you prefer. If you want less heat, use a mild mango chutney instead of traditional chili sauce. For a marvelous textural crunch, try mixing finely shredded carrots or water chestnuts right into the patty mixture before cooking.
Storing & Reheating
Store cooked patties separately from buns and soft toppings in an airtight container for up to four days in the refrigerator. Reheat gently in a skillet on low heat with a tiny splash of vegetable broth, or quickly zap them in the microwave. This essential step keeps them wonderfully moist and flavorful.
It was 6:30 PM, the kind of Tuesday where the only motivation left was the promise of a decent meal, and my fridge looked suspiciously empty. I had thawed ground turkey—a blank canvas, if slightly intimidating—and a serious case of flavor fatigue. I was scrolling through elaborate recipes when my gaze landed on the vibrant red bottle of Thai sweet chili sauce. The label promised tang, heat, and sweetness. I thought, “Why not?” Combining that gorgeous sticky glaze with the mild turkey was a stroke of absolute genius born purely from exhaustion. These Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers are now legendary in my kitchen, proving that the best culinary revelations often arrive when you have the least energy to cook.
The Dinner Emergency That Saved My Weeknight
Many people treat ground turkey like it’s destined to be bland, only useful when heavily masked by intense spices. But turkey, when handled correctly, provides the perfect savory foundation for strong, international flavors. The trick here is dual-action flavoring. We incorporate the sticky, spicy-sweet glaze directly into the meat mixture, and then we reserve some to brush on during the final moments of cooking. This ensures every single bite bursts with that characteristic zing.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its speed. You can prep the patties in ten minutes flat. While they rest briefly, you gather your toppings. The cooking time is generally under 15 minutes, depending on your preferred method. If you thought great flavor required hours of simmering, these chili-glazed turkey sandwiches will shatter that misconception immediately. They are bold, vibrant, and utterly addictive, offering a genuine escape from the ordinary weeknight routine.
Gathering Your Global Ingredients for the Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
The ingredient list for these spicy-sweet turkey patties is surprisingly short, but each component plays a critical role. You are aiming for maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Resist the urge to overcomplicate things; the star of the show is clearly the chili sauce, so let it shine.
Here is what you will need for eight medium-sized burgers:
- Ground Turkey:Two pounds of lean ground turkey.
- Sweet Chili Sauce:One cup, divided (the cornerstone of flavor).
- Bread Crumbs:Half a cup of panko or plain bread crumbs to help bind the mixture and retain moisture.
- Egg:One large egg, lightly beaten, acting as the essential glue.
- Fresh Aromatics:Two tablespoons of finely minced ginger and four cloves of minced garlic. These provide depth beneath the sweetness.
- Scallions:Half a cup of thinly sliced scallions (the white and light green parts) for a subtle oniony punch.
- Lime Juice:One teaspoon of fresh lime juice to cut through the sweetness and add brightness.
- Seasoning:Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.
- Toppings:Soft brioche buns, fresh cilantro, sliced pickled cucumbers, and a creamy mayonnaise mixed with a little extra lime juice.
The interplay of these flavors is magnificent. The ginger and garlic bloom when mixed into the cold turkey, ensuring that the flavor permeates the patty, rather than just sitting on the surface. We introduce a little lime juice into the mixture to enhance the savory notes and keep the final product from tasting heavy or sugary. It is a nuanced flavor profile hidden inside a very simple burger recipe.
Building the Ultimate Patty: Flavor Infusion
When working with ground poultry, remember that overmixing is the enemy. Overworking the meat leads to dense, tough burgers that will make you weep with disappointment. The goal is to incorporate the ingredients until they are just combined. Think of your hands as delicate mixing tools, not cement mixers.
First, combine the bread crumbs and the egg in a large bowl, letting the crumbs absorb the moisture for about five minutes. This pre-soaking helps them do their job better. Next, gently add the ground turkey, minced ginger, garlic, half of the sweet chili sauce (save the rest for glazing), scallions, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Use your hands to gently fold and combine the ingredients. Stop mixing the second you no longer see streaks of raw egg or dry crumbs. Form the mixture into eight evenly sized patties, pressing a slight divot in the center of each. This little indent prevents the patty from puffing up into an awkward dome shape during cooking, ensuring even heat distribution and a perfect bun-to-burger ratio. Place the patties on a plate, cover them, and let them chill in the fridge for at least 15 minutes. This chilling time is non-negotiable; it helps them hold their shape when they hit the heat.
Grill, Pan, or Oven? Cooking Options for Perfection
You have three excellent paths to culinary glory, depending on the weather and your level of enthusiasm. Regardless of the method you choose, always start by brushing your cooking surface with a little neutral oil to prevent sticking.
Searing and Glazing for Maximum Flavor
Skillet Method:Heat a heavy-bottomed skillet (cast iron works beautifully) over medium-high heat. Sear the patties for about 3 to 4 minutes per side until they develop a deep brown crust. Once both sides are seared, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue cooking for another 5 to 7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). In the last two minutes of cooking, brush the remaining reserved sweet chili sauce generously over the top of the patties, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
Grill Method:Preheat your grill to medium heat. Oil the grates well. Grill the burgers for approximately 5 to 6 minutes per side. Turkey cooks faster than beef, so monitor closely. Apply the remaining sweet chili sauce during the last few minutes of cooking, turning occasionally to build that beautiful, sticky glaze.
Oven/Broiler Finish:If you sear them briefly in the pan and need to finish a large batch, transfer the seared patties to a baking sheet. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 8 minutes. Brush with the glaze just before removing them from the oven.
The Assembly: A Symphony of Crunch and Cream
The flavor profile of theseThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgersdemands toppings that are cooling, crunchy, and acidic to balance the rich, sweet heat. Forget the standard tomato and lettuce—we are elevating this experience.
Toast your brioche buns lightly for structural integrity and a lovely buttery flavor. On the bottom bun, spread a thin layer of lime-mayonnaise. Place the glazed turkey patty on top. For the crucial textural contrast, pile on plenty of thinly sliced pickled cucumbers (or quick-pickled shredded carrots), and finish with a generous scattering of fresh cilantro leaves. The pickled elements provide the sharp, sour counterpoint that makes the sweet chili truly pop, turning a simple burger into a complex, satisfying meal.
Here are a few quick pointers to guarantee success:
- Before mixing, ensure your turkey is very cold; cold meat binds better and results in a more tender, juicy patty when cooked.
- Never press the patties down with a spatula while they cook; this is called “juice evacuation,” and it guarantees a dry, disappointing burger.
- If the glaze starts to burn while cooking, lower the heat immediately. The high sugar content means the sauce caramelizes quickly, moving from sticky perfection to charcoal tragedy in seconds.
I once served these spicy turkey burgers at a summer barbecue, worried my friends wouldn’t appreciate the lack of beef. I watched with delight as a friend, known only for eating plain cheese, went back for thirds. That was the moment I realized these burgers were truly exceptional.
Conclusion for Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
TheseThai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgersoffer a genuinely vibrant, easy, and satisfying alternative to your standard weeknight fare. By focusing on light handling of the ground turkey and leveraging the intense flavor of the sweet chili glaze, you achieve a juicy patty bursting with exotic notes. Remember the key techniques: minimal mixing, adding the flavor agents directly into the mixture, and applying the reserved glaze right before serving to achieve that perfect sticky exterior. Whether you grill them under the summer sun or pan-sear them indoors, these burgers promise an exciting culinary adventure that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction.
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Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
Lean turkey patties bursting with sweet chili zing and fresh cilantro. We mix Panko and egg directly into the meat for a perfectly tender, savory texture.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1/4 cup Panko breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce, divided
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- 4 burger buns, toasted
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground turkey, Panko breadcrumbs, beaten egg, chopped cilantro, minced ginger, lime juice, and 1/4 cup of the Thai sweet chili sauce. Mix gently with your hands until the ingredients are just combined; avoid overworking the meat mixture.
- Step 2: Divide the turkey mixture into four equal portions and form them into 3/4-inch thick patties. Press a small indentation into the center of each patty to help them maintain shape while cooking.
- Step 3: Preheat a grill or large skillet to medium-high heat and lightly brush the surface with oil. Place the turkey patties on the heat source and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 4: While the burgers finish cooking, lightly toast the burger buns on the grill or broiler until golden brown.
- Step 5: Assemble the burgers: Place one cooked Thai sweet chili turkey patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun, then generously drizzle the remaining 1/4 cup of sweet chili sauce over the patty before adding the top bun. Serve immediately.
Notes
- To store cooked leftovers, wrap patties individually and refrigerate for up to three days, or freeze the raw patties (separated by wax paper) for up to two months before cooking.
- For moist reheating, place cooked patties in a preheated 300°F oven for about 10 minutes, or gently warm them in a covered pan on the stovetop until heated through, avoiding high heat which causes drying.
- Enhance the tropical flavors by serving these burgers with a simple crunchy Asian slaw or topped with a slice of fresh avocado for creaminess.
- Since turkey is lean, remember the crucial step of pressing a small dimple into the center of each raw patty; this prevents the burger from shrinking and bulging into a football shape while cooking.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American





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