Maraschino Cherry Chocolate Cookies (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ For the patties

01 - 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
02 - 1 cup (30 g) fresh spinach, finely chopped
03 - 1/2 cup (50 g) shredded white cheddar cheese
04 - 1/4 cup (30 g) breadcrumbs (or panko; almond flour for gluten-free)
05 - 1 egg
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
09 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
10 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
11 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Optional toppings

12 - Sliced white cheddar
13 - Avocado slices
14 - Tomato slices
15 - Red onion
16 - Spinach or lettuce leaves
17 - Dijon mustard or mayonnaise

→ For serving

18 - 4 burger buns, toasted, or lettuce wraps for a low-carb option

# Instructions:

01 - In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, chopped spinach, shredded white cheddar, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, Dijon mustard, onion powder, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Avoid overmixing to prevent dense patties.
02 - Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty, approximately 1/2-inch thick. Wet hands with water if the mixture is sticky to make shaping easier.
03 - Heat 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
04 - Preheat the grill to medium heat and lightly oil the grates. Cook the patties for 4-5 minutes per side or until golden brown and cooked through to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
05 - During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of white cheddar on each patty and cover with a lid (or close the grill) to let it melt.
06 - Place each cooked patty on the bottom half of a toasted bun. Add your desired toppings, such as avocado, tomato slices, red onion, spinach, or lettuce. Spread Dijon mustard or mayonnaise on the top bun, then sandwich together.
07 - Serve immediately with sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a fresh green salad on the side.

# Notes:

01 - Make-ahead option: The patties can be shaped in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 1 day before cooking.
02 - Storage: Cooked patties keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days or in the freezer for 1 month.
03 - To enhance the flavor, try adding a teaspoon of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the patty mixture.