Ingredients
For the Turkey Patties
- 1½ pounds ground turkey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
For the Sweet Chili Mayo
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons Thai sweet chili sauce
- 1 teaspoon Sriracha (optional)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
For the Crunchy Slaw
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 1 cup shredded purple cabbage
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 2 tablespoons chopped cilantro
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembly
- 4 brioche burger buns
- Butter for toasting buns
- Sliced cucumber
- Lettuce leaves
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Slaw
In a large bowl, combine the green cabbage, purple cabbage, grated carrot, and chopped cilantro.
In a small bowl, whisk together the rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
Pour the dressing over the vegetables and toss until evenly coated.
Refrigerate while preparing the burgers. This allows the vegetables to soften slightly while remaining crisp.
Step 2: Make the Sweet Chili Mayo
In a small bowl, stir together the mayonnaise, Thai sweet chili sauce, Sriracha, and lime juice until smooth.
Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 3: Prepare the Turkey Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine:
- Ground turkey
- Garlic
- Ginger
- Green onions
- Cilantro
- Sweet chili sauce
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Lime zest
- Salt
- Pepper
- Panko breadcrumbs
- Egg
Mix gently until all ingredients are evenly incorporated. Avoid overmixing, as this can make the burgers dense.
Step 4: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into four equal portions.
Shape each into a burger patty about ¾-inch thick.
Place the patties on a plate and refrigerate for 15 minutes to help them hold their shape while cooking.
Step 5: Cook the Burgers
Grill Method
Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Lightly oil the grates.
Cook the patties for 5–6 minutes per side until nicely browned and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Stovetop Method
Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Cook each patty for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden brown and fully cooked.
Step 6: Toast the Buns
Spread a little butter on the cut sides of the brioche buns.
Toast them on the grill or in a skillet for 1–2 minutes until lightly golden.
Step 7: Assemble the Burgers
Spread a generous layer of sweet chili mayo on both halves of each toasted bun.
Place lettuce on the bottom bun.
Add the cooked turkey patty.
Top with crunchy cabbage slaw, sliced cucumber, and fresh cilantro.
Finish with another drizzle of sweet chili sauce if desired.
Place the top bun over the burger and serve immediately with lime wedges.
Serving Suggestions
These Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers pair perfectly with:
- Sweet potato fries
- Crispy French fries
- Asian cucumber salad
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Edamame
- Coleslaw
- Potato chips
- Fresh fruit salad
- Pickled vegetables
Storage
Store cooked turkey patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The slaw and sweet chili mayo should be stored separately to maintain freshness.
Reheating
Reheat the patties in a skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side or in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes until heated through.
Tips for the Best Thai Sweet Chili Turkey Burgers
- Use ground turkey with a little fat (93/7) for juicier burgers.
- Chill the patties before cooking to help them stay together.
- Fresh ginger and garlic provide the most authentic flavor.
- Toasting the buns adds texture and prevents them from becoming soggy.
- Add sliced avocado or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.
- Don’t overcook the turkey, as lean meat can dry out quickly.
- Make the slaw and sauce ahead of time to save preparation time.
Nutrition (Per Serving – Approximate)
- Calories: 590
- Protein: 37g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fat: 32g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 145mg
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 11g
