For the sauce: 1/4 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sugar-free ketchup, 1 teaspoon yellow mustard, 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder, and a splash of pickle juice.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Special Sauce In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sugar-free ketchup, mustard, garlic powder, and pickle juice. Set this aside in the refrigerator to allow the flavors to meld while you prepare the rest of the meal.
Step 2: Season the Chicken In a medium mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken with the garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Gently mix with your hands or a spatula until just combined. Divide the mixture into 4 or 8 even-sized round balls, depending on how many patties you want per bowl.
Step 3: Heat the Skillet Place a large cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil and let it get hot until it begins to shimmer. It is important that the pan is very hot to get that perfect sear.
Step 4: Smash and Sear the Patties Place the chicken balls onto the hot skillet, leaving plenty of space between them. Place a small square of parchment paper over a ball and press down firmly with a heavy spatula or a burger press until the patty is very thin. Repeat for all balls. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the edges are crispy and brown.
Step 5: Flip and Melt Cheese Flip the patties carefully. If using cheese, sprinkle the shredded cheddar over the cooked side immediately. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked through and the cheese is melted. Remove from heat.
Step 6: Assemble the Bowls Divide the shredded lettuce among four bowls. Top with cherry tomatoes, red onions, and pickles. Place the hot smash chicken patties on top of the greens. Drizzle generously with the prepared special sauce and serve immediately.