Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger Recipe

Introduction

This Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger recipe is simple to make and delivers incredible flavor. The sweet maple and tangy mustard glaze creates a delicious twist on a classic burger. For more easy and tasty meal ideas, try the Cranberry-Glazed Roasted Butternut Squash Salad Recipe or the Trisha Yearwood’s Butterscotch Bars Recipe for dessert.

Ingredients

These Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burgers combine savory bacon, sweet apples, and tangy maple mustard for a perfectly balanced flavor experience.

• 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 fresh parsley, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 cup panko bread crumbs
• 2 pounds ground chicken
• 6 slices Monterey Jack cheese (or cheddar, smoked gruyere)
• 6 brioche buns
• Lettuce
• 1/2 red onion, sliced thin
• For the sauce:
• 1/2 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Timing

Prep Time	15 minutes
Cook Time	20 minutes
Total Time	35 minutes

Context: This Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger comes together about 25% faster than similar gourmet burger recipes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1 — Prepare the Maple Mustard Glaze

Combine ¼ cup Dijon mustard, 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup, 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth. Set aside half for basting the chicken and reserve the other half for serving.

Step 2 — Season the Chicken Patties

In a medium bowl, mix 1 pound ground chicken, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, ½ teaspoon salt, and ¼ teaspoon black pepper. Gently form into 4 equal patties, about ½-inch thick. Avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.

Step 3 — Preheat Your Cooking Surface

Heat a grill or skillet to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent the chicken from sticking. A properly heated surface ensures a good sear and helps lock in juices.

Step 4 — Cook the Chicken Patties

Place the patties on the hot surface and cook for 5–6 minutes per side. The patties should release easily when ready to flip. Cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the exterior is golden brown.

Step 5 — Glaze the Chicken

During the last 2 minutes of cooking, brush the patties generously with the reserved maple mustard glaze. Allow the glaze to caramelize slightly, but watch closely to prevent burning due to the sugar content.

Step 6 — Toast the Buns

While the chicken rests, lightly toast 4 brioche or pretzel buns on the grill or in a toaster until golden. Toasting adds texture and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy when assembled.

Step 7 — Assemble the Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger

Spread the remaining maple mustard glaze on the bottom bun. Top with a chicken patty, a slice of Swiss cheese, and a handful of arugula or sautéed onions. Add the top bun and serve immediately.

Step 8 — Rest Before Serving

Let the cooked chicken patties rest for 2–3 minutes after glazing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more flavorful and moist Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger.

Nutritional Information

Calories	480
Protein	35g
Carbohydrates	28g
Fat	24g
Fiber	2g
Sodium	820mg

Note: Estimates based on typical ingredients and serving size.

Healthier Alternatives

• Turkey Patties — Leaner protein with a mild flavor that pairs well with the maple mustard glaze.
• Portobello Mushrooms — A savory, low-carb alternative that absorbs the sweet and tangy sauce beautifully.
• Lettuce Wraps — Fresh, crisp replacement for the bun to reduce carbs and calories.
• Dairy-Free Cheese — Melts smoothly and offers a creamy texture without dairy.
• Gluten-Free Buns — Enjoy the same sandwich experience while avoiding gluten.
• Low-Sodium Mustard — Maintains the tangy kick while cutting back on salt.
• Baked Chicken — Healthier cooking method that keeps the chicken juicy without added oil.
• Greek Yogurt Sauce — A lighter, protein-rich substitute for creamy condiments.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a classic German potato salad or warm Bavarian-style pretzels for an authentic Oktoberfest experience.
• Serve on a toasted brioche bun with crisp lettuce, sliced red onion, and a generous slather of extra maple mustard sauce.
• Accompany with a cold German lager or a crisp, non-alcoholic apple cider to complement the sweet and savory flavors.
• Perfect for game day gatherings, autumn cookouts, or any festive fall celebration.
• For a complete meal, add a side of roasted Brussels sprouts or a tangy cabbage slaw.
• Serve open-faced on a wooden board for a rustic, shareable presentation at parties.

This Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger is a crowd-pleaser that brings the hearty, festive flavors of a German beer hall right to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Mistake: Overpowering the chicken with too much mustard. Fix: Use a balanced 2:1 maple syrup to mustard ratio to let both flavors shine through.
• Mistake: Using dry chicken breast that becomes tough. Fix: Opt for ground chicken thigh (80/20 lean/fat) for juicier, more flavorful patties.
• Mistake: Applying glaze too early, causing it to burn. Fix: Brush the maple mustard glaze only during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
• Mistake: Skipping the resting step after cooking patties. Fix: Let your Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger rest 5 minutes to redistribute juices.
• Mistake: Overmixing the ground chicken, creating dense patties. Fix: Gently mix ingredients until just combined to maintain a tender texture.
• Mistake: Not toasting the burger buns, leading to sogginess. Fix: Lightly toast buns to create a barrier against the juicy patty and glaze.
• Mistake: Cooking patties straight from the refrigerator. Fix: Let patties sit at room temperature for 15 minutes for more even cooking.
• Mistake: Using watery vegetables that dilute flavors. Fix: Pat dry all lettuce and tomato slices before assembling your burger.
• Mistake: Rushing the caramelization process. Fix: Cook over medium heat to develop deep flavor without burning the maple glaze.

Storing Tips

• Fridge: Store leftover cooked Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap individual cooked burgers tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
• Reheat: For best results, thaw frozen burgers in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), or warm thoroughly in a skillet over medium heat.

Always use a food thermometer to ensure your reheated Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before serving.

Conclusion

This Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger is a deliciously unique twist on a classic. We hope you love making it as much as we do! Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments. For more easy meal ideas, check out our Pancake Breakfast Sandwich Recipe or Pancake Sausage Casserole Recipe. Don’t forget to subscribe for more recipes!

Print

FAQs

Can I use a different type of mustard for the Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger?

Yes, you can substitute the mustard. Dijon or a coarse-grained mustard works well. The key is to balance the tangy flavor with the maple syrup to maintain the signature taste of the Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger.

What is the best way to cook the chicken patty for this burger?

Grilling or pan-searing the chicken patty gives the best results. Cook it over medium heat until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This method ensures a juicy patty that complements the sweet and savory maple mustard glaze.

Can I prepare the maple mustard sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely. The maple mustard sauce can be made up to three days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stir well before using it on your Oktoberfest Maple Mustard Chicken Burger.