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Chipotle Lime BBQ Turkey Burgers - Smoky, Zesty, and Weeknight-Friendly

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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 27 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 pounds ground turkey (93% lean works best)
  • 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo, finely minced, plus 1 teaspoon adobo sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice and 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional but great)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 3/4 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/3 cup BBQ sauce (plus extra for serving)
  • 4–6 burger buns, toasted
  • Toppings: sliced avocado, crisp lettuce, tomato, pickled red onion, pepper jack or cheddar

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, minced chipotle, adobo sauce, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, red onion, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with a fork until just combined.
  2. Divide the mixture into 4–6 patties, about 1/2 to 3/4 inch thick. Make a small indent in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly.
  3. Preheat a grill or skillet to medium-high. Oil the grates or pan lightly to prevent sticking.
  4. Cook the patties for 4–5 minutes per side. During the last minute, brush the tops with BBQ sauce. If adding cheese, place a slice on each patty and cover to melt.
  5. Use a thermometer to check for doneness: 165°F in the center. Rest the burgers for 3 minutes.
  6. Toast the buns. Spread a little extra BBQ sauce on the bottom bun, add the burger, and top with avocado, lettuce, tomato, and pickled red onion.