Tequila Lime Chicken Burger

Preparation

For the tequila lime spread:
Combine all ingredients in a food processor, and pulse until smooth, about 5 – 10 seconds. Set aside.

For the chicken patties:
Mix the lime zest, juice and tequila in a small bowl and set aside. Heat a skillet over medium heat, and add the olive oil.

In a bowl, combine the chicken, onion, cilantro, and one tablespoon of the tequila lime mix. Form the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties and place in the skillet. Cook on one side for 5 minutes, then flip and cook 5 minutes more.

At the end of the cooking time, add the remaining tequila lime mix to the pan, and stir to deglaze the pan. Be careful, as the tequila is flammable, and could catch fire. If you’re nervous about this, turn the flame completely off when you add the tequila lime mixture, allow to bubble with the residual heat for about 30 seconds, and turn the heat back on. Flip the burgers one more time so they get some of the tequila lime action. The liquid will evaporate, and concentrate, giving you a great lime/tequila flavor. After letting the flavors infuse in the skillet for about 2 minutes, turn off the heat, and top each patty with a slice of cheese. While the cheese melts, prepare the rest of your burger.

For the assembly:
Toast your burger buns under the broiler until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes. Divide the arugula among the 4 heels of the burger buns, then add the avocado slices. Carefully place the chicken patty on top of the arugula and avocado, and top with tomato. Slather the crown of the bun with the tequila/lime cream mixture, and place on top of the tomatoes. Enjoy!