These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and full of flavor! They mix tender chicken with tasty cheddar and ranch seasonings for the perfect bite every time.
Who doesn’t love a good burger? I like to serve these on soft buns with fresh toppings. It’s like a flavor party right on your plate! Plus, they’re super quick to make—dinner in a snap!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of your burger. If you’re looking for a leaner option, ground turkey works great as a substitute. If you want something richer, consider using ground beef.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a delicious creaminess. If you’re a fan of other cheeses, feel free to swap it out for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick!
Ranch Dressing: This brings a ton of flavor. For a healthier alternative, use Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of dried ranch seasoning. It’s lighter but still tasty!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the burgers. If you’re gluten-free, almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs work well. I even like using crushed crackers for added flavor!
Green Onions: They add a nice crunch and brightness. Chopped chives can be a good alternative. You could also skip them if you prefer a simpler taste.
How Do I Ensure My Burgers Are Juicy and Cooked Right?
To keep these chicken burgers juicy, achieving the right temperature and cooking time is essential. Here are some tips:
- Form the patties gently without overpacking. This keeps them tender.
- Cook on medium heat to prevent burning. The goal is a golden exterior and no raw bits inside.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; 165°F is the safe zone for poultry.
Lastly, adding bacon in the last few cooking minutes not only warms it through but adds a nice crunch and flavor!
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burgers:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Optional toppings: crispy bacon, mayonnaise, lettuce, tomato
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, so plan for a total of about 25 minutes from start to finish. You’ll quickly mix the ingredients, form the patties, cook them, and assemble your delicious burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined and looks like one big tasty mixture.
2. Forming the Patties:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty, about ¾ inch thick. Make sure they are even in size so they cook uniformly.
3. Cooking the Chicken Patties:
Preheat a skillet or grill to medium heat and lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of oil. Place the chicken patties on the hot surface and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. The goal is for them to be golden brown and fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Adding the Bacon (Optional):
If you want some extra flavor, during the last few minutes of cooking, place crispy bacon slices on top of each patty. Let them warm for a bit while the chicken finishes cooking.
5. Toasting the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, you can toast the hamburger buns. Just place them on the grill or in a skillet until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch to your burger!
6. Assembling Your Burgers:
To put your burgers together, start by spreading mayonnaise on the bottom bun. Next, place your cooked chicken patty on top (don’t forget the bacon if you added it). Add lettuce and tomato if you like, and then cap it off with the top bun. Now it’s time to dig in!
7. Serving Suggestions:
Serve your cheddar ranch chicken burgers with a side of extra ranch dressing for dipping or drizzling. These burgers are sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken. It will still provide a tasty burger, but be aware that it might need a little extra seasoning due to its milder flavor. Just make sure the internal temperature still hits 165°F when cooking.
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No problem! You can make a homemade version by mixing together equal parts mayonnaise and sour cream with a splash of lemon juice or vinegar, then adding spices like dill, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste. This will give you a similar creamy flavor for the burgers.
Can I Prepare the Patties in Advance?
Yes, you can! Shape the patties ahead of time and place them on a parchment-lined plate or baking sheet. Cover with plastic wrap and store in the fridge for up to 24 hours. If you want to store them longer, they can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in a skillet over medium heat, or use the microwave for a quick option—just make sure they are heated thoroughly before eating!
