Chicken Caesar Smash Burgers

Instructions

1. Shape and season the patties: Divide the ground chicken into 5 equal portions (about 3 to 3½ ounces each) and roll into balls. Place each one on a parchment paper square. Flatten each one completely into a thin patty — this helps them sear evenly and get those crispy edges.

2. Cook the smash burgers: Heat a griddle or cast iron skillet over medium-high heat and melt a bit of butter. Place a patty on the hot surface, sprinkle the top with salt, black pepper, and paprika, and let it sear. Use a spatula or meat smasher to flatten patties even more if you'd like.

3. Once golden and crisp on the bottom, about 3 minutes, flip, season the other side, and cook for another 3 minutes or until finished cooking through.

4. Add a slice of white American cheese on top of each patty. Stack two on top of each other if serving as double burgers and take patties off the heat.

5. Toast the buns: Brush the cut sides of the buns with melted butter and toast until golden and crispy along the edges.

6. Toss the salad: In a large bowl, combine chopped romaine, crushed croutons, parsley, parmesan, and a few spoonfuls of Caesar dressing. Toss until evenly coated.

7. Assemble the burgers: Spread Caesar dressing generously on both the bottom and top buns. Layer one or two cheesy chicken patties on the bottom bun, then pile on the dressed Caesar salad. Serve right away while warm and crisp with french fries!