Baja-Baked Chicken Cheeseburgers

Ingredients

• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1/3 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup shredded Monterey jack cheese
• 4 hamburger buns, toasted

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).
2. In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, onion, cilantro, cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well and shape into 4 patties.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the patties and cook for 5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Remove the patties from the skillet and place on a baking sheet. Top each patty with 1/4 cup of cheese and bake for 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
5. Serve the patties on toasted hamburger buns.

Interesting Facts

• Baja-style refers to the Mexican-style cuisine that originated in the Baja California region of Mexico.
• Ground chicken is a great alternative to ground beef for burgers. It is leaner and has less fat.
• Monterey Jack cheese is a mild, semi-soft cheese that melts easily.