Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F) or heat a cast iron skillet over medium-high heat.
In a large bowl, gently combine the ground chicken, chipotle powder, minced chipotle pepper, adobo sauce, bread crumbs, beaten egg, diced onion, minced garlic, cumin, oregano, lime zest, cilantro, salt, and pepper. Mix just until combined.
With slightly dampened hands, form the mixture into four equal patties about 4 inches in diameter and 1/2 inch thick. Press a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
Refrigerate the formed patties for 15-20 minutes to help them firm up.
Meanwhile, make the chipotle mayo by combining all ingredients in a small bowl. Refrigerate until ready to use.
Place the patties on the preheated grill or oiled skillet. Cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side until you see clear grill marks or golden browning.
Flip once and cook an additional 5-6 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. If adding cheese, place it on during the final 1-2 minutes of cooking.
Lightly butter the cut sides of your burger buns and toast them on the grill or in a separate skillet for 30-60 seconds until golden.
Spread chipotle mayo on both sides of the toasted buns. Place a cooked patty on each bottom bun.
Top with lettuce, tomato slices, avocado, and other desired toppings. Add the top bun and serve immediately.
Notes
For milder burgers, reduce the chipotle powder to 1/2 tablespoon and use just one chipotle pepper.
Work with chilled ground chicken and refrigerate formed patties before cooking for best texture and handling.
Don’t overmix the meat mixture as this can make the burgers tough.
Always cook chicken burgers to an internal temperature of 165°F for food safety.
Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.