Frequently Asked Questions
What are Savory Brown Rice & Oat Chicken Burgers?
These are a healthy and flavorful blend of ground chicken, cooked brown rice, and oatmeal, designed to be protein-packed and satisfying.
What type of chicken should I use for this recipe?
The recipe calls for regular ground chicken rather than lean chicken to ensure the burgers stay juicy and flavorful.
Can I use lean ground chicken instead?
You can, but regular ground chicken is recommended for better moisture. If using lean, you may need to monitor cooking closely to prevent drying.
What kind of rice is required?
The recipe requires 1 cup of cooked brown rice that has been allowed to cool.
What type of oatmeal is best for these burgers?
Use uncooked oatmeal. You can also use a combination of oatmeal with flax seed and wheat bran for added nutrients.
How much barbecue sauce is added to the mixture?
The recipe uses 1/4 cup of your favorite barbecue sauce mixed directly into the patty ingredients.
What seasonings are used in these burgers?
The patties are seasoned with sea salt, garlic powder, and freshly ground black pepper.
Do I need to refrigerate the burger mixture before cooking?
Yes, it is recommended to cover and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour before shaping into patties.
Why is refrigeration necessary for the chicken mixture?
Chilling allows the flavors to meld together and helps the mixture firm up, making it much easier to shape into patties.
How many burgers does this recipe make?
The recipe makes approximately 5 to 6 equal-sized patties.
What is the best way to mix the ingredients?
It is best to use clean hands to mix the ingredients thoroughly in a large bowl, being careful not to overmix.
Can I cook these on a George Foreman grill?
Yes, a George Foreman grill or an outdoor grill are both excellent options for cooking these patties.
What temperature should the grill be set to?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat.
How long do the chicken burgers take to cook?
The patties usually take about 6 to 8 minutes to cook until they are golden brown.
What is the safe internal temperature for these burgers?
The burgers are safe to eat once they reach an internal temperature of 165ยฐF (74ยฐC).
Should I grease the grill?
Yes, lightly grease the grill if necessary to prevent the chicken patties from sticking.
Can I toast the buns?
Yes, for extra taste, you can toast whole wheat buns on the grill during the last minute of cooking.
What kind of buns are recommended?
Whole wheat buns are recommended to complement the healthy profile of the brown rice and oats.
What toppings go well with these burgers?
Suggested toppings include vegetable toppings, additional barbecue sauce, and melted cheese if desired.
What are some good side dishes for this meal?
Serve these burgers warm with side salads or sweet potato fries for a complete and nutritious meal.
Are these burgers high in fiber?
Yes, the addition of cooked brown rice and oatmeal makes these burgers significantly higher in fiber than standard meat patties.
Can I use different spices?
Absolutely. You can adjust the garlic powder, salt, and pepper to your preference, or add other spices like onion powder or paprika.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, these burgers are a family-friendly choice that kids typically love due to the mild chicken flavor and barbecue sauce.
How thick should I make the patties?
Try to keep the patties approximately the same thickness to ensure they all cook evenly on the grill.
Are these burgers considered 'low carb'?
While they contain rice and oats, they are often tagged as low carb in comparison to burgers with heavy fillers, especially if served in lettuce wraps.
Can I prepare the mixture the night before?
Yes, you can prepare the mixture and keep it refrigerated overnight to save time on the day you plan to grill.
What is the preparation time for this recipe?
The recipe requires minimal prep time, plus the 1-hour chilling period and about 8 minutes of cooking.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
You can use white rice, but brown rice is used in this recipe for its hearty texture and nutritional benefits.
What flavor of barbecue sauce works best?
The choice of flavor is entirely yours; you can use smoky, sweet, or spicy barbecue sauce depending on your taste preference.
Is it okay if the oatmeal isn't cooked first?
Yes, the recipe specifically calls for uncooked oatmeal, which acts as a binder and absorbs moisture from the chicken as it cooks.