Here is a lighter take on a classic! I love this recipe because the patties can be made ahead of time for a hastle-free weeknight dinner. This recipe can also be modified and made into party appetizers! Simply buy dinner rolls and shape the patties much smaller for easy finger food!

Pinterest Inspired

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs. ground chicken
• 1 tsp. dried basil
• 1 tsp. dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp. dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp. garlic powder
• 2 Tbsp. fresh parsley
• 1/4 c. Parmesan cheese, grated
• 1/2 c. Italian-seasoning breadcrumbs (can be substituted for whole wheat)
• 2 (8 oz.) packages fresh mozzarella cheese (sliced would be fine too with less calories)
• 8 hamburger buns
• 12 oz. Basil marinara sauce
• Optional: fresh basil, rough chop

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400*. Lightly spray a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, seasonings, breadcrumbs, and cheese. Combine by hand until the ingredients are evenly mixed together. Divide the mixture into 8 even patties (this makes large patties, you can always make them smaller to create more) to accommodate your buns. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
3. Bake for 8 minutes, flip the patties and bake for an additional 8 minutes. Remove from the oven and place a thick slice of fresh mozzarella on each patty. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is nicely melted.
4. Remove from the oven and mound a large spoon full of marinara on top of the melted cheese. Bake for another 5 minutes to warm the sauce.
5. Place on lightly toasted buns to serve.

Yields 8 servings | 402 calories per burger (no bun)

Eat, Bork, & Be Merry!

~ Kate