These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! With creamy ranch dressing and melty cheddar cheese, they’re sure to be a hit at any meal.
What’s great is how quick and simple they are to make—perfect for busy nights or last-minute gatherings. I love serving them with crispy fries. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein for the burgers. If you prefer, you can swap it for ground turkey or lean beef. Both work great and offer a different flavor. I often go for turkey for a slightly lighter option.
Ranch Dressing: A key flavor boost! You can use any ranch dressing you enjoy, but homemade ranch works wonders too. If you’re dairy-free, try a vegan ranch made from cashews or tofu, which is just as creamy.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a delicious, cheesy flavor. If you’re feeling adventurous, try using pepper jack for a little spice, or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
Onion & Garlic: These ingredients bring lots of flavor to the table. Red onions taste sweeter than white and work well here. For a milder option, use green onions or omit the garlic if needed.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken Burgers?
A common challenge with chicken burgers is keeping them juicy. Here are tips to avoid dryness:
- Don’t overmix the chicken mixture—this keeps the patties tender.
- Form patties gently and don’t press them too hard.
- Cooking on medium heat is key to prevent burning. Always use a food thermometer to check for doneness.
Lastly, adding ranch and cheese not only enhances flavor but also adds moisture. Enjoy your burgers without worrying about dryness!
Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for topping)
- 4 oz shredded cheddar cheese (reserve slices for topping)
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 lettuce leaves
- Optional: mayonnaise
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, for a total of 25 minutes. An easy, quick meal that’s full of flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Mixture:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground chicken, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, finely chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to ensure everything is well combined.
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal parts and gently shape each part into a patty. Make sure to press them firmly so they hold together nicely when cooking.
3. Preheat the Grill or Skillet:
Heat your grill or a large skillet over medium heat. Lightly oil the surface to prevent sticking, ensuring your burgers cook evenly.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the chicken patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add Cheese:
In the last minute of cooking, add a cheese slice on top of each patty and cover the grill or skillet to allow the cheese to melt beautifully.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese melts, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until warm and slightly golden.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Spread extra ranch dressing and mayonnaise (if using) on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Place a chicken patty with melted cheese on top, then add a fresh lettuce leaf.
8. Finish and Serve:
Top each burger with the top half of the bun and serve immediately. Enjoy your delicious, cheesy, ranch-flavored chicken burgers!
FAQ for Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitution and will still provide a juicy burger. Just be mindful that turkey can sometimes dry out more quickly, so keep an eye on cooking times!
How Do I Prevent My Chicken Burgers From Falling Apart?
To ensure your patties hold together, mix the ingredients just until combined and form them gently. Pressing them firmly helps them stay intact while cooking. Also, avoid flipping them too early; let them sear properly before turning.
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time! Simply form them and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a day. Just be sure to cook them within 24 hours for the best flavor and texture.
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, warm them in a skillet over low heat or microwave gently to avoid drying them out. Add extra ranch dressing to keep them tasty!
