These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and full of flavor! With tasty cheddar cheese and a zesty ranch mix, they’re sure to please everyone at your table.
Honestly, I can’t help but smile when I take a bite. They’re like a party on a bun! I love serving them with crispy fries for a fun meal. Give them a try, you won’t be disappointed!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is lean and works well for burgers. If you prefer something richer, turkey or even ground beef can be substituted in equal amounts.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great flavor. Feel free to switch to pepper jack for a kick, or use a dairy-free cheese if you need a non-dairy option.
Ranch Dressing: The dressing keeps the burgers moist and flavorful. If you want to make your own, mix yogurt with herbs like dill and parsley. Alternatively, you could try a vinaigrette for a tangy twist.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the burgers together. Panko breadcrumbs offer extra crunch, or you can use crushed cornflakes for a gluten-free option.
Green Onions: These add a fresh bite to the burgers. If you don’t have them, try chives or even diced regular onions for a stronger flavor.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Burgers without Drying Them Out?
Cooking chicken burgers can be tricky since chicken can dry out quickly. Here are some tips:
- Cook over medium heat to avoid burning the outside before the inside cooks through.
- Mix the ingredients gently; overmixing can lead to tougher burgers.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. They should reach 165°F to be safe.
Let the burgers rest for a couple of minutes off the heat before serving. This keeps them juicy as they finish cooking slightly.
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
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices of bacon (optional)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise (for spreading)
- Sliced green onions (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes for cooking. So, you can enjoy your delicious Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers in about 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
2. Shape the Patties:
Once the mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a round patty, about 1/2 inch thick. Make sure the patties are compact so they hold their shape while cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Spray it lightly with cooking spray or add a small amount of oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. They should be golden brown and fully cooked through. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C).
4. Cook the Bacon (Optional):
If you’re using bacon, cook the slices in the same skillet until they turn crispy. Remove and set aside once done—this will enhance the flavor of your burgers!
5. Toast the Burger Buns:
After cooking the patties, don’t forget about the buns! Place them in the skillet and toast them lightly for a minute or two until they’re just golden. This adds a great crunch!
6. Assemble Your Burgers:
Let’s put it all together! Spread a layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a chicken patty on top, followed by a slice of crispy bacon (if you chose to add it), and garnish with some sliced green onions. Finally, place the top bun over everything to complete your burger.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are now ready to enjoy! Serve them hot and dig in. They’re perfect for a family meal or a fun gathering with friends. Enjoy!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken and will work well in this recipe. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, and you may want to adjust any seasonings to your liking.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing on hand, you can use any creamy dressing you like, such as blue cheese or Caesar. You can also mix sour cream with herbs and spices to create a homemade ranch-style dressing!
How Should I Store Leftover Burger Patties?
Store leftover burger patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm them in the skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Just be cautious not to overcook them when reheating!
Can I Grill These Burgers Instead of Pan-Frying?
Yes, grilling is a fantastic option! Preheat the grill to medium heat, and cook the patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Just be sure to oil the grill grates to prevent sticking!
