These Spicy Chipotle Turkey Burgers are juicy, smoky, and pack just the right amount of heat.
They’re easy to throw together, cook up fast, and give off major backyard cookout vibes — even if you’re cooking indoors.
The secret is canned chipotle peppers in adobo.
They add that smoky depth that makes every bite pop.
Pair it with your favorite toppings and you’ve got a burger that’s far from boring.
Why I Love This Recipe
Turkey burgers usually get a bad rap for being dry or bland — not this one. These are tender, juicy, and seriously flavorful. Here’s why I keep coming back to them:
- Made with simple pantry ingredients
- Smoky-spicy flavor from real chipotle peppers
- Leaner than beef but still full of flavor
- You can cook them on the stove or grill
- Leftovers are amazing the next day
Servings & Time
Makes: 4 burgers
Total Time: 30 minutes
Macros (Per Burger – without bun)
- Calories: 275
- Protein: 28g
- Carbs: 3g
- Fat: 16g
- Fiber: 1g
Why This Recipe Works (Quick Science)
- Ground turkey has a mild flavor that soaks up seasonings easily.
- Chipotle peppers add smokiness and heat without overpowering.
- A little oil in the mix keeps the burgers juicy during cooking.
- Forming loose patties helps prevent dense, dry burgers.
Common Mistakes
- Overmixing the turkey — it makes the burgers tough.
- Not chopping the chipotle finely — big chunks can overpower a bite.
- Cooking on too high heat — the outside burns before the inside cooks.
What You’ll Need
- 1 pound ground turkey (93% lean)
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped chipotle peppers in adobo
- 1 tablespoon adobo sauce (from the chipotle can)
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
- Optional: buns, lettuce, tomato, onion, chipotle mayo for serving
Tools You’ll Need
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork or spatula
- Cast iron or nonstick skillet (or grill)
- Spatula for flipping
- Plate for shaping patties
Substitutions & Variations
- Swap turkey for ground chicken or beef
- Add shredded cheddar or pepper jack to the mix for extra richness
- Use smoked paprika if you don’t have chipotles
- Serve on lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
Make Ahead Tips
- Mix and shape patties ahead of time, refrigerate up to 24 hours
- You can freeze raw patties between parchment for quick meals later
Instructions
Step 1: Mix the Burger Mixture
In a large bowl, combine 1 pound ground turkey, 2 tablespoons finely chopped chipotle peppers, 1 tablespoon adobo sauce, 1 minced garlic clove, ½ teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Mix gently with a fork or your hands just until combined.
Step 2: Form the Patties
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and gently shape into patties about ¾-inch thick. Press a small indent in the center of each to help them cook evenly.
Step 3: Cook the Patties
Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F and outside is browned.
Step 4: Toast the Buns (Optional)
If using buns, lightly toast them in the same skillet for 1–2 minutes until golden.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
Layer each burger patty on a toasted bun with lettuce, tomato, red onion, and chipotle mayo if using. Serve immediately.
Leftovers & Storage Tips
- Store cooked patties in the fridge for up to 3 days
- Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave
- Great sliced over salads or tucked into wraps
What to Serve With
- Sweet potato fries or regular fries
- Coleslaw or corn salad
- Grilled veggies or a side salad
- Pickles or jalapeño chips for crunch
FAQ
How spicy is it?
It has a good kick, but you can reduce the chipotle to 1 tablespoon if you want it milder.
Can I grill these?
Yes! Cook over medium heat for about 5–6 minutes per side.
What if I don’t have adobo sauce?
Use extra chipotle peppers and a splash of vinegar for a similar effect.
Can I freeze them?
Yes — freeze raw patties between parchment or freeze cooked burgers for easy meal prep.
Final Thoughts
These Spicy Chipotle Turkey Burgers bring the heat, the flavor, and the juiciness — all in one simple recipe. They’re quick, bold, and perfect for spicing up your burger night. Give them a go and let me know what toppings you added!