These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are packed with flavor! Juicy chicken combines with creamy cheddar and zesty ranch seasoning for a tasty twist on a classic burger.
They’re quick to whip up and perfect for a summer BBQ! I love serving them with fresh veggies and a side of fries—it’s a simple meal that always brings smiles! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! You can use ground turkey or lean beef if you prefer. Each option will give you a slightly different flavor but will still work well in this recipe.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds richness and flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use part-skim mozzarella or Swiss cheese. For a fun twist, try pepper jack for a little heat!
Ranch Dressing: It brings a creamy, tangy taste. Making your own dressing with yogurt, herbs, and spices is a great substitute if you want to avoid store-bought options.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the burgers. Instead of regular breadcrumbs, you can use panko for extra crunch. Gluten-free breadcrumbs also work well if you need a gluten-free option.
Bacon: While optional, I believe bacon takes these burgers to the next level! Turkey bacon or even crispy veggie bacon are tasty alternatives if you’re looking for a lighter or meat-free choice.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Burgers Stay Juicy?
To keep your chicken burgers juicy, it’s important to handle the meat gently. Overmixing can cause them to be tough. Combine the ingredients until just mixed and form patties without squeezing too tightly. Here’s how to cook them perfectly:
- Cook over medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the inside to cook through.
- Use a meat thermometer. They are done when they reach 165°F (75°C).
- Let the patties rest for a minute before assembling. This helps retain their juices.
Following these steps will give you nice, juicy chicken burgers every time! Enjoy grilling!
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices cooked bacon (optional)
- Mayonnaise or additional ranch dressing for spreading
- Green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of 30 minutes to have your delicious chicken burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to gently mix everything together until it’s well combined. Don’t overwork it, just make sure everything is nicely mixed!
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions. With your hands, shape each portion into a burger patty. Make sure they are evenly sized for consistent cooking. You can gently press a slight indent in the middle of each patty to help them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium heat and add a little oil or cooking spray if needed to prevent sticking. Place the patties on the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and cooked through, with an internal temperature reaching 165°F (75°C). If you’re using bacon, lay a slice on each patty during the last minute of cooking to warm it up.
4. Toast the Buns:
While the patties finish cooking, you can lightly toast the burger buns on the skillet or grill for a minute or two until they’re warm and slightly crispy. This adds a nice touch!
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Spread a little mayonnaise or extra ranch dressing on the bottom of each bun. Place the cooked chicken patty on top, add the crispy bacon (if using), and then top it off with the other half of the bun.
6. Garnish and Serve:
If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a burst of color and flavor. Serve these delicious Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers immediately and enjoy!
Can I Use Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just be sure to check that the turkey is properly cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), as turkey can sometimes take a bit longer to cook through.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing, you can try mixing sour cream with herbs like dill or parsley, or even using a yogurt-based dressing. For a spicier kick, a chipotle sauce or a zesty vinaigrette can work well too!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through. You can also freeze them for later; just make sure to wrap them tightly before freezing.
Can I Grill These Burgers Instead of Pan-Frying?
Yes, these burgers can be grilled! Preheat your grill to medium heat, and oil the grates to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are nicely browned and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
