These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are super tasty and a breeze to make! Juicy chicken mixed with cheesy goodness and ranch flavor makes for a winning combo.
I love throwing these on the grill for summer BBQs. They’re a hit with friends and family, and honestly, who can resist a cheesy burger? Yum! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of your burgers. If you’re looking for a lighter option, ground turkey works well too. For a beefier flavor, lean ground beef or pork is a good substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar brings great flavor. However, you can swap it for Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a twist. You can even try cream cheese for a creamy texture.
Ranch Dressing: Store-bought ranch is convenient, but making your own can be fun and healthier. Greek yogurt mixed with herbs can be a great homemade alternative.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the patties. If gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. For a low-carb option, you could skip breadcrumbs altogether.
Green Onions: They add a fresh crunch! If you don’t have them, chopped regular onions or chives can work just fine.
How Can I Make the Perfect Chicken Burger Patty?
Forming the burger patty plays a big role in the final dish. Here’s how to get it right:
- Combine all ingredients gently in a bowl. Over-mixing can lead to tough burgers.
- Keep the mixture slightly moist for easier shaping. It should stick together but not be wet.
- When shaping, use your hands to form even patties. Making a slight indent in the center helps them cook more evenly.
- Cook until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
This technique will help you achieve juicy and flavorful burgers every time!
Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound 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
- Cooked bacon strips (optional)
- Additional ranch dressing for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15 minutes to cook. So, in just 30 minutes, you will have tasty chicken burgers ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, add the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure the cheese and spices are evenly distributed throughout the chicken!
2. Forming the Patties:
Once everything is mixed, divide the mixture into four equal parts. Take each part and shape it into a round patty, making sure they are all roughly the same size so they cook evenly.
3. Cooking the Patties:
Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the chicken patties in the skillet. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked (the internal temperature should reach 165°F or 75°C). You want them to be a nice golden brown on both sides!
4. Assembling the Burgers:
If you want to add some extra flavor, place cooked bacon strips on the bottom half of each hamburger bun. Then, top each bacon-covered bun with a chicken patty. Drizzle some additional ranch dressing over the patty before placing the top half of the bun on.
5. Serving:
Serve your hot cheddar ranch chicken burgers with your favorite sides like fries or salad. Enjoy every bite of your homemade burgers!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works as a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey might require a little longer to cook through properly.
What if I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing?
No worries! You can make a quick alternative by mixing together mayonnaise with a little bit of dried dill, garlic powder, and a splash of lemon juice. This will give you a creamy dressing similar to ranch that will work beautifully in the burgers.
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover chicken burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat them, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them for about 1-2 minutes if you prefer a quicker option.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. If you want to make them even earlier, you can freeze the uncooked patties in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a zip-top bag once frozen. They can be cooked straight from frozen; just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time!
