These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy, tasty, and packed with flavor! With cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning, every bite is a burst of deliciousness!
Who doesn’t love a cheesy burger? I like to serve mine with a side of crispy fries. You can even throw in some veggies for a colorful plate. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for your burgers and gives them a lighter texture than beef. If you’re looking for a different flavor, turkey or lean ground beef can work too.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds creaminess and flavor. You can swap it for other cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a bit of heat.
Ranch Dressing: The star of the show! For a healthier alternative, try a yogurt-based ranch dressing or even make your own with yogurt, herbs, and spices.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the mixture. If gluten-free, use almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. I prefer panko for a crispier texture!
Green Onions: For freshness and a mild onion flavor. Regular onions can substitute, but they should be finely chopped to blend in.
How Do I Cook Chicken Burgers So They Don’t Fall Apart?
Cooking chicken burgers can be a bit tricky since ground chicken is more delicate. Here are steps to ensure they hold together:
- Mix all ingredients until just combined—don’t overwork the meat.
- Form patties gently, making a slight indent in the center to keep them flat while cooking.
- Cook them on a preheated skillet or grill. Don’t flip too early; wait until they’re golden brown on one side (about 5-7 minutes).
- Use a spatula to flip carefully and cook the other side until fully cooked. Check the internal temperature for safety.
How to Make 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
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices of cooked bacon (optional)
- Additional ranch dressing for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, for a total of about 30 minutes. You’ll enjoy the savory flavors and juicy texture in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix Your Ingredients:
In a large bowl, take the ground chicken and combine it with the shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, garlic powder, onion powder, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s nice and uniform. It’s okay if it’s a little sticky—this just means it’ll be juicy!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once everything is mixed, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a round burger patty, making sure they are not too thick so they cook evenly. Lay them on a plate or cutting board while you get ready to cook them.
3. Preheat and Cook the Burgers:
Now, grab your skillet or grill and preheat it over medium heat. If it seems a bit dry, add a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the burger patties on the heated surface and let them cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want to wait until they are golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer if you have one!
4. Get the Buns Ready:
While your burgers are cooking, it’s time to prepare the buns. If you like, spread ranch dressing on the bottom half of each bun for an extra flavor boost. This will complement the burgers wonderfully!
5. Assemble and Serve:
Once your chicken burgers are cooked to perfection, carefully place each patty on a bun. If you’re using bacon, add a crispy slice on top of each burger. Then, finish with the top half of the bun. Serve your burgers immediately with extra ranch dressing on the side for dipping. Enjoy every bite of your Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works beautifully in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can be slightly drier than chicken, so consider adding a little extra ranch dressing to keep the burgers moist.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing on hand, you can use any creamy dressing you like, such as blue cheese or thousand island. You can also make a homemade ranch using yogurt or sour cream mixed with herbs like dill, parsley, and chives!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat them, use a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side, or pop them in the microwave for about 30-60 seconds until heated through!
Can I Freeze the Burger Patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked burger patties! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze until solid, then transfer them into a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight before grilling or pan-frying.
