Maple Mustard Chicken Apple Burgers

Ingredients

• 5 Slices Bacon (chopped)
• 1/4 Cup Red Onion (minced)
• 3 Cloves Garlic (minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Salt
• 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
• 1/4 Cup Apple Juice
• 1 Apple (Chopped, about 2/3 cup)
• 2 Tablespoons Parsley (fresh, minced)
• 1/2 teaspoon Dried Sage
• 1 Cup Panko Bread Crumbs
• 2 Pounds Ground Chicken
• 6 Slices Monterey Jack Cheese (any cheese is great, cheddar, smoked gruyere etc)
• 6 Brioche Buns
• Lettuce
• 1/2 Red Onion (Sliced Thin)
• 1/2 Cup Dijon Mustard
• 2 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
• 2 Tablespoons Mayonnaise

Instructions

1. 1

   --- For the Sauce ---

2. 2

   Mix ingredients in a bowl and set aside in the fridge.

3. 3

   --- For the Burgers ---

4. 4

   In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon and drain on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1 teaspoon of the grease.

5. 5

   Place the skillet and drippings back on the burner over medium heat and add the onion, garlic, salt and pepper, cooking until tender, about 2 minutes.

6. 6

   Slowly pour in the apple juice to deglaze the pan. Simmer for a few minutes until the liquid is gone. Add the bacon, apple, and herbs and cook until the apple is starting to soften.

7. 7

   Remove to a bowl to cool.

8. 8

   In a large bowl, mix together the bread crumbs, chicken and apple mixture. Be sure to handle the meat gently. Shape into 6 patties or 4 larger patties. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and set aside in the fridge to rest for up to 30 minutes.

9. 9

   Grill patties, salted side down for 6-7 minutes. Salt the other side, flip and cook another 6-8 minutes or until cooked through (165 degrees), topping with cheese to melt it.

10. 10

    Grill the buns quickly and spread sauce on the bottom. Add the meat and serve with toppings of choice.