Robert Irvine's Chicken Caprese Burgers with Balsamic Onions

"It's a combination that screams summer," says the host of Food Network's Restaurant: Impossible. "The flavors are strong, fragrant and somehow light all at the same time."

Photo: Jennifer Causey

"It's a combination that screams summer," says the host of Food Network's Restaurant: Impossible. "The flavors are strong, fragrant and somehow light all at the same time."

Robert Irvine's Chicken Caprese Burgers with Balsamic Onions

2 lbs. ground chicken

1 tsp. onion powder

1 tsp. garlic powder

1 large (12-oz.) red onion, sliced crosswise into 6 (1/4-in.) rings

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

2/3 cup mayonnaise

2 Tbsp. jarred basil pesto or chopped fresh basil

1 1/2 tsp. kosher salt

3/4 tsp. black pepper

12 oz. fresh mozzarella cheese, cut into 12 (1/4-in.) slices

6 potato sandwich rolls, split and lightly toasted

2 cups loosely packed fresh baby spinach

2 (6-oz.) beefsteak tomatoes, sliced

1. Place chicken, onion powder and garlic powder in a large bowl; mix together using your hands. Shape evenly into 6 (1/2-inch-thick) patties. Arrange patties between 2 sheets of wax paper; place on a baking sheet, and chill 15 minutes.

2. Meanwhile, stir together sliced onion and balsamic vinegar in a medium bowl; let stand at room temperature 15 minutes. Whisk together mayonnaise and pesto in a small bowl; set aside.

3. Preheat grill to medium high (400° to 450°). Sprinkle chilled patties evenly with salt and pepper. Place patties on oiled grates; grill, uncovered, until a thermometer inserted in thickest portion of meat registers 165°, about 6 minutes per side.

4. Meanwhile, add balsamic-marinated onion to oiled grates; grill, uncovered, until charred, about 2 minutes per side. Remove from grill; set aside.

5. Place 2 mozzarella slices on each patty; grill until cheese is slightly melted, about 1 minute. Remove patties from grill.

6. Spread 2 tablespoons pesto mixture on each bottom bun half; top evenly with spinach, sliced tomatoes, patties and charred onion. Replace top bun halves. Serve immediately.

Quick tip! Missing an ingredient? Irvine says you can easily adapt his recipe: Swap ground chicken for turkey or beef, mozzarella for provolone, and baby spinach for iceberg lettuce or mesclun greens.

Makes: 6

Active time: 35 minutes

Total time: 45 minutes