These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! Made with ground chicken, creamy ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese, they’re a hit at any barbecue.
I love how quick these burgers are to whip up. Just mix, shape, and grill! Serve them with your favorite toppings for a fun meal that adds joy to any weeknight dinner. 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This lean meat is perfect for burgers. If you want a richer flavor, try ground turkey. You can use beef or pork too, but that will change the recipe’s overall taste.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its strong flavor, but mild cheddar or even a blend works well too. If you’re feeling adventurous, pepper jack adds a nice kick!
Ranch Dressing: A classic choice that gives flavor and moisture. Greek yogurt or sour cream can substitute for a lighter option. You can also make homemade ranch if you have the spices!
Breadcrumbs: Panko gives a nice crunch. Regular breadcrumbs work too, or use crushed crackers for a different texture. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Green Onions: These add freshness, but if you don’t have them, chives or finely chopped yellow onions can substitute. Even a sprinkle of onion powder can work in a pinch!
How Do I Cook the Chicken Patties Perfectly?
Cooking the chicken patties well is essential to avoid dry burgers. Here’s how to ensure they’re juicy and flavorful:
- Don’t overmix the ingredients. Just combine until it holds together!
- Shape the patties a bit larger than the buns. They’ll shrink as they cook.
- Cook on medium heat to get a nice golden crust without burning.
- Use a food thermometer. Aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
- Let them rest for a minute after cooking; this helps keep them juicy.
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 (preferably panko)
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
Optional Toppings:
- Cooked bacon slices
- Additional ranch dressing for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and about 12-15 minutes to cook. So, you’re looking at around 30 minutes total from start to finish! Perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, put together the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together with your hands or a spoon until it’s just combined. Be careful not to overmix; you want it to stay tender.
2. Form the Patties:
Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Press gently to ensure they hold together but avoid making them too compact.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a large skillet or grill over medium heat. Lightly grease the cooking surface with spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Once hot, place the chicken patties in the skillet or on the grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and fully cooked through—aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Toast the Buns:
During the last few minutes of cooking, place the hamburger buns cut-side down on the skillet or grill to toast them until golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
5. Assemble and Serve:
To put the burgers together, take one chicken patty and place it on the bottom half of a toasted bun. If you’d like, add some cooked bacon slices and a drizzle of ranch dressing. Finish with the top half of the bun. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work nicely in this recipe. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as ground turkey may require a few additional minutes to cook through, ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
To make these burgers gluten-free, simply substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free panko breadcrumbs. You may also want to use gluten-free hamburger buns to match!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked chicken 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 for a few minutes until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just ensure they are well-wrapped.
Can I Add More Vegetables to the Mixture?
Yes, you can definitely add more vegetables! Finely chopped bell peppers, spinach, or even shredded zucchini can enhance the nutritional value and flavor. Just be mindful of the moisture content to keep the burgers from becoming too mushy—pat any added vegetables dry before mixing.
