Chicken Burger vs Beef Burger: Which Is Better?

Neither burger is better for everyone. A grilled chicken burger is usually leaner, with fewer calories and less saturated fat, while a beef burger delivers more iron, zinc, and vitamin B12, plus a richer, juicier flavour. Choose chicken for a lighter meal and beef for classic indulgence, and skip fried chicken if health is your goal.

At Dunn's, we serve both, so here is how to pick the right one for you.

Chicken Burger vs Beef Burger: The Key Differences

Both are burgers, but the meat changes almost everything:

• Meat: A beef burger uses ground beef, often an 80/20 chuck blend. A chicken burger uses ground chicken or a whole breast fillet.

• Cooking: Beef is seared on a hot grill or griddle. Chicken is either grilled or breaded and fried.

• Flavour: Beef is rich and savoury. Chicken is milder and takes on its seasoning and sauces.

• Juiciness: Beef's fat keeps it juicy. Chicken breast dries out quickly if overcooked.

In short, beef brings bold flavour, while chicken is a lighter base for your favourite toppings.

Is a Chicken Burger Healthier Than a Beef Burger?

Usually yes, if the chicken is grilled. For example, a 4 oz grilled skinless chicken breast has about 186 calories, 35 g of protein and 1 g of saturated fat, based on USDA FoodData Central. A 4 oz 80/20 beef patty has about 287 calories, 29 g of protein and 7 g of saturated fat.

Beef still has real advantages. That same patty has more than twice the iron, around six times the zinc, and several times the vitamin B12 of chicken breast.

The bun, cheese, and sauce can add another 250 to 500 calories, so how you build your burger matters as much as the meat. Canada's Food Guide recommends choosing lean meats and poultry more often.

What Makes a Great Beef Burger?

A great beef burger starts with fat. An 80/20 chuck blend, meaning 80% lean meat and 20% fat, stays juicy even when fully cooked, while leaner 90/10 beef can turn dry. The next key is a hard sear, since a hot grill creates a browned, flavourful crust.

Season simply with salt and pepper, handle the meat gently, and finish with classic toppings like cheddar, pickles, onions, lettuce, and tomato. 

What Makes a Montreal Deli Beef Burger Different?

A Montreal deli beef burger borrows the bold flavours of the deli counter. Many are seasoned with Montreal steak spice, a coarse blend of black pepper, garlic, coriander and salt that gives the patty a peppery crust. Some delis go further and top the burger with smoked meat for a smoky, savoury layer.

The sides are deli classics too. Instead of a basic fast-food side, expect fries or poutine, coleslaw and a crunchy dill pickle. 

What Should You Order First at a Montreal Deli?

On your first visit to a Montreal deli, start with the signature: a Montreal smoked meat sandwich with fries or poutine, a pickle, and coleslaw. 

Burgers are perfect for your next visit or for anyone at the table who wants something different. For example, order the beef burger if you want a classic, hearty meal, and the chicken burger if you want something lighter. At Dunn's, a group can share smoked meat and poutine while everyone picks their own burger.

Final Thoughts: Chicken or Beef?

Pick a grilled chicken burger for a lighter meal with more protein per calorie. Pick a beef burger for bold flavour and more iron, zinc and B12. If you love crunch, enjoy a crispy chicken burger as a treat rather than a health food.

Can't decide? Visit Dunn's, try both, and judge for yourself which deserves the title of best burger in Montreal. Find your nearest Dunn's. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1. Can you eat a beef burger medium rare?

It is not recommended. Grinding spreads surface bacteria through the meat, so ground beef should reach 160°F (71°C). Chicken burgers need 165°F (74°C), according to Health Canada.

Q2. Is a chicken burger good for weight loss?

A grilled chicken burger can be. It is high in protein and low in fat, which helps you feel full. Go easy on mayo and cheese, and pair it with a salad instead of fries.

Q3. Why do chicken burgers dry out faster than beef burgers?

Chicken breast has very little fat, so moisture escapes quickly once it is cooked through. Thigh meat or a marinade keeps it juicier.

Q4. Why are beef burgers more popular than chicken burgers?

Beef is the original burger meat. Its fat and seared crust create a rich, savoury flavour that pairs perfectly with cheese and classic toppings.

Q5. What are the best toppings for a chicken burger?

Lettuce, tomato, and pickles are classic. Crispy chicken pairs well with coleslaw and spicy mayo, while grilled chicken suits avocado, Swiss cheese or bacon.