Summertime BBQ Chicken Burgers

June 16, 2026

Some of the best summer memories happen around the patio table. A meal fresh off the grill, children playing in the yard, and conversations that continue long after dinner all make outdoor living special. As Independence Day approaches, many homeowners look forward to spending more time outside and making the most of their backyard spaces. Summertime BBQ Chicken Burgers bring those moments together with a recipe that’s easy to serve, packed with flavor, and perfect for sharing.

July 4th celebrations often revolve around good food and time spent together. Whether you're hosting neighbors for a backyard gathering, relaxing by the pool, or enjoying dinner on the patio with family, a chicken burger topped with tangy barbecue sauce feels right at home on the menu. The combination of juicy grilled chicken and classic barbecue flavors creates a satisfying, easy-to-serve meal.

One reason burgers remain a summertime favorite is their versatility. They pair effortlessly with fresh seasonal sides, grilled vegetables, crisp salads, and all the traditional cookout staples. Their convenient size also makes them ideal for casual outdoor meals where guests can mingle, relax, and enjoy the atmosphere without slowing down the fun.

Outdoor living becomes even more enjoyable when the space is designed to support cooking, dining, and spending time together. A thoughtfully planned patio, outdoor kitchen, or dining area helps turn ordinary meals into memorable occasions throughout the season.

Ready to upgrade your outdoor spaces? Nicolock offers everything from paving stones and retaining walls to fireplaces and outdoor living features designed for year-round enjoyment. If you’re considering a new grill or outdoor kitchen upgrade, explore Nicolock’s outdoor dining collection and browse more recipe ideas to help make the most of every meal outdoors.

Serves 4

Summertime BBQ Chicken Burgers Ingredients

For the sauce

• ½ cup ketchup
• ¼ cup molasses
• 2 tbsp. grated (or very finely chopped) onion
• 2 tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
• 2 tbsp. Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp. cider vinegar
• 1 tbsp. brown sugar
• Hot sauce, to taste

For the burgers

• 1 lb. ground chicken
• ¼ cup cornmeal (or ½ cup crumbled cornbread)
• 1 scallion, minced
• 1 tbsp. minced fresh cilantro
• 2 tsp. brown sugar
• 1 tsp. dry mustard
• ½ tsp. kosher salt
• ½ tsp. paprika
• ¼ tsp. garlic powder
• Pinch of cayenne pepper
• 2/3 cup chopped pulled pork (optional)
• 5 tbsp. barbecue sauce, divided

For serving

• Burger buns, toasted on the grill
• Grilled onion slices
• Sliced cheddar cheese
• Additional barbecue sauce

Summertime BBQ Chicken Burgers Directions

1. Heat a grill to medium-high heat. 
2. To make the barbecue sauce, combine all the ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook until the sauce thickens and is reduced to about 1 cup, stirring occasionally for about 7 minutes. Remove from the heat. Chill until ready to use.
3. To make the burgers, combine the ground chicken, cornmeal, scallions, cilantro, brown sugar, spices, pulled pork (if using), and 2 tablespoons of the barbecue sauce in a medium bowl, and mix gently until well combined. Form the mixture into four equal patties. Transfer to a plate and refrigerate until ready to grill.
4. Oil the grates of the grill. Place the burger patties on the heated grill and cook for about 3-4 minutes. Flip the burgers and brush the cooked sides generously with some of the remaining three tablespoons of barbecue sauce. Cook for about three minutes, then flip once more and brush the second side with barbecue sauce. Top with cheese slices, if using. Cook just until cooked through, and the cheese is melted.
5. Place the burgers on the toasted buns and top with grilled onion slices and additional barbecue sauce as desired.

Taken from americanmadegrills.com