These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and flavorful! They’re made with ground chicken, cheese, and ranch seasoning, making each bite deliciously cheesy.
Cooking these burgers is a breeze—just mix, shape, and grill! I love serving them with crunchy lettuce and a dollop of ranch dressing. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main ingredient, and it’s great for a lighter burger. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey can be a good substitute. If you prefer beef, feel free to use ground beef instead, but the flavor will change a bit!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a nice cheesy texture. I love using sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor, but medium cheddar works too. For a dairy-free version, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Ranch Dressing: This brings in that classic ranch flavor. You can substitute it with a yogurt-based ranch for a lighter version or try other dressings like blue cheese or honey mustard for a twist.
Breadcrumbs: These keep the burgers juicy and hold everything together. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs are excellent options. I often use panko for extra crunch!
How Can I Ensure Juicy and Flavorful Chicken Patties?
To keep your chicken burgers juicy and flavorful, proper mixing and cooking are key. Here’s how to get it just right:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can lead to tough patties.
- Form the patties without pressing too hard – loosely shaped patties retain moisture better.
- Cook them at medium heat. This ensures they cook through without burning on the outside.
- Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. You want them to reach 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
These tips will get you the perfect burgers every time! Remember, don’t skip the bacon if you love that crispy, salty crunch topping!
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
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices of bacon, cooked
Optional Toppings:
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Additional ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll be enjoying these delicious chicken burgers in about 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a wooden spoon to mix everything together until just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough.
2. Shape the Patties:
Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Then, shape each portion into a round patty, making them slightly thicker in the center. This helps them cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the patties onto the skillet or grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on one side. Flip them and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until they are fully cooked and golden brown. You’ll want to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Assemble Your Burgers:
Once the patties are cooked, take each burger bun and place a chicken patty on the bottom half. Add a slice of crispy bacon over the top, and feel free to layer on any optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, or an extra drizzle of ranch dressing. Finally, place the top half of the bun on your burger.
5. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your cheddar ranch chicken burgers immediately while they’re hot and juicy. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as ground turkey may require a few extra minutes to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Breadcrumbs?
No problem! You can substitute with crushed crackers, oats, or even ground nuts for a gluten-free option. Just make sure the substitute has a similar consistency to breadcrumbs to help bind the patties together.
How to Store Leftover Burgers
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat or microwave until warmed through. If reheating on the stove, cover with a lid to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties up to a day in advance. Simply shape them, place them on a lined baking sheet, and cover with plastic wrap before refrigerating. When ready to cook, just remove from the fridge and cook as directed, adding a couple of extra minutes if they’re still cold from refrigeration.
