These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are packed with flavor! Juicy chicken meets cheesy goodness and a punch of ranch seasoning, making every bite a treat.
Don’t be surprised if you want to make these burgers again and again—they’re that good! I love serving them with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps these burgers light yet flavorful. If you want a bit more richness, turkey is a good alternative. If you’re vegetarian, you could try a plant-based ground meat substitute like Beyond Meat.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great flavor and melts beautifully. If sharp cheddar is too strong for you, Monterey Jack or even mozzarella can work. For a dairy-free option, look for vegan cheese shreds!
Ranch Dressing Mix: This is key for flavor. If you can’t find it or want a healthier version, you can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder. Store-bought ranch dressing can also suffice in a pinch.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help hold the burgers together. You can use panko for extra crunch or even crushed crackers if you’re out of breadcrumbs. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are also a great option.
Green Onions: These bring a fresh flavor. If you don’t have them, finely chopped regular onions or shallots can be used instead, but cut back on the amount since they can be stronger in taste.
How Do You Cook Chicken Burgers to Ensure They’re Juicy and Fully Cooked?
Cooking chicken burgers can be tricky—they need to be thoroughly cooked but still juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your skillet or grill on medium heat. A well-heated surface sears the burgers for a nice crust.
- Lightly grease the skillet with oil to prevent sticking.
- Cook patties for 5-7 minutes on one side before flipping. This helps seal in moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for the internal temperature. It should reach 165°F (75°C). Avoid cutting into the patty, as this releases juices.
Following these steps will help you achieve tender and tasty burgers every time!
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 packet (1 oz) ranch dressing mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1 egg
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns
- Cooked bacon (optional, 4 slices)
- Mayonnaise (for spreading on buns)
- 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, making the total time approximately 30 minutes. A quick and tasty meal that’s sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, start by combining the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing mix, breadcrumbs, finely chopped green onions, egg, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
2. Shape the Patties:
Once everything is mixed, divide the chicken mixture into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball and then flatten it into a burger patty shape. Make sure they are all about the same thickness for even cooking.
3. Cook the Burgers:
Heat a large skillet or grill to medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Place the burger patties in the skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to be fully cooked.
4. Prepare the Buns:
If you like, toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster for a few minutes until golden brown. Then, spread a layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place a cooked chicken patty on top of the mayo layer.
5. Add Optional Toppings:
If you want to take it up a notch, add a slice of crispy cooked bacon on top of each chicken patty. Then, place the top halves of the buns on each sandwich to close them up.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the burgers warm and don’t forget the ranch dressing on the side for dipping! Enjoy your delicious Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers—perfect for lunch, dinner, or a weekend barbecue!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work just as well in this recipe. Just ensure that you monitor the cooking time, as turkey can sometimes be a bit leaner and may need a minute or two more to reach the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What If I Don’t Have Ranch Dressing Mix?
No worries! If you don’t have ranch dressing mix on hand, you can create a homemade version by mixing together equal parts dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. About 2 tablespoons of this mix should work nicely in your burgers!
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes, you can! Simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. This way, you can still enjoy the delicious flavor of these burgers without any gluten concerns!
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
To store leftovers, wrap each burger tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
