These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers bring a tasty twist to your regular burgers. Juicy chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese make a perfect combo!
Plus, they’re super quick to make! I love serving them with fresh veggies or on a fluffy bun—either way, you’ll want to savor every bite. 🍔😋
Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base of the burgers. If you prefer, you can substitute it with ground turkey or even lean beef for a different flavor profile. Each option will provide a slightly different texture.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded sharp cheddar adds a nice kick. If you’re looking for a milder taste, go for regular cheddar or even Monterey Jack. For a non-dairy option, try vegan cheese shreds.
Ranch Dressing: This gives the burgers their unique flavor. You can use a homemade ranch if you prefer fresh ingredients, or try blue cheese dressing for a bolder taste.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the mixture. If you’re gluten-free, swap for gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. I often use panko for extra crunch!
Bacon: This is optional but adds a delicious smoky flavor. Turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon can be great alternatives if you want something lighter.
How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken Burgers Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken burgers can be a bit tricky since you want them juicy but also fully cooked. The key is to monitor the temperature!
- Preheat your skillet or grill to medium heat for even cooking.
- Cook each side for about 5-7 minutes. Be careful not to flip too soon, or they might break apart.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F. This ensures they’re safe to eat and perfectly cooked.
- If you’ve added bacon, warming it during the last minute gives you a crispy texture without overcooking the chicken.
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- For Assembly:
- 4 slices cooked bacon (optional)
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce for topping (optional)
- Additional ranch dressing for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15 minutes to cook, making a total of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a tasty meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This is where all the delicious flavors come together!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once the mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Use your hands to shape each portion into round burger patties. Try to make them a little thicker in the center, as they will flatten out while cooking.
3. Cook the Chicken Burgers:
Heat a skillet or grill over medium heat and lightly grease it with oil or cooking spray. Carefully place the patties in the skillet or on the grill. Cook the chicken burgers for about 5-7 minutes on each side, flipping them over when they are golden brown. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure they’re fully cooked!
4. Add Bacon and Toast Buns:
If you’re using bacon, add a slice on top of each burger during the last minute of cooking to warm it up. While the burgers are cooking, you can toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in another skillet until they are golden brown. This adds a nice crunch!
5. Assemble Your Burgers:
Now it’s time to put everything together! Start by placing a chicken patty on the bottom half of each bun. If you’re using bacon, add it right on top of the patty. Top with lettuce and a drizzle of ranch dressing for extra flavor. Finally, place the top half of the bun on each burger.
6. Serve and Enjoy!
Your Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them immediately while they’re hot, and don’t forget extra ranch dressing on the side, if you like. Happy eating!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just be sure to check the cooking time as ground turkey may be slightly leaner, affecting the moisture. Aim for the same internal temperature of 165°F when cooking.
Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked chicken burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid reheating too long to keep them moist.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to the Burger Mixture?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in chopped herbs, diced onions, or even jalapeños for an extra kick. Just make sure not to add too many wet ingredients to maintain the Patty’s structure! You might need to adjust the breadcrumbs a little to compensate.
