These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and full of flavor. With creamy ranch dressing and tasty cheddar cheese mixed right in, every bite is a delight!
I love how quick these burgers are to whip up! Perfect for busy nights, and they’re always a hit at cookouts. Just add your favorite toppings, and you’re ready to go! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the burger! You can substitute turkey if you prefer, or for a beefier taste, use ground beef. Just keep in mind that chicken is leaner, so it’s a healthier choice.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds flavor and creaminess. If you’re looking for a different taste, try pepper jack for some heat, or mozzarella for a milder flavor.
Ranch Dressing: A key component for flavor! Use homemade ranch for freshness, or opt for Greek yogurt dressings for a lighter version. You could also swap for another dressing like blue cheese if you want a different flavor.
Bread Crumbs: These help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or omit them entirely. Sometimes I even use crushed crackers for a fun twist!
How Can I Make Sure My Chicken Burgers Stay Juicy?
The juiciness of chicken burgers can be a bit tricky. Here are some tips to keep them moist:
- Don’t overmix the chicken when combining ingredients; just mix until everything is blended.
- Make sure to cook the patties to an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) but avoid cooking longer than necessary to prevent them from drying out.
- Let the patties rest for a minute after cooking before assembling the burgers. This keeps the juices inside!
Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for serving)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Leafy lettuce leaves
- Extra cheddar cheese slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes for cooking. In total, you should be enjoying your Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers in about 25-30 minutes. Quick and satisfying!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently using your hands or a spatula until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix!
2. Forming the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a patty roughly 3/4 inch thick. Make sure to make them slightly larger than the buns, as they will shrink a little while cooking.
3. Preheating the Grill or Skillet:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. If you’re using a skillet, lightly oil the grates or surface to prevent sticking. This is a key step for those delicious, grill marks!
4. Cooking the Patties:
Once hot, place the patties on the grill or skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked through and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Keep an eye on them to avoid burning!
5. Melting the Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, top each patty with a slice of cheddar cheese. Close the lid of the grill or cover the skillet to help the cheese melt perfectly.
6. Toasting the Buns:
While the patties are finishing up, lightly toast the hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster until they are golden brown. This step adds extra flavor and crunch to your burgers!
7. Assembling the Burgers:
To assemble, place a cheese-topped chicken patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Add a few leafy lettuce leaves and a dollop of extra ranch dressing on top. Finally, place the top bun over everything to complete your burger!
8. Serve & Enjoy!
Serve the burgers immediately while they’re hot and juicy. These are perfect for a family dinner, a BBQ, or just because you’re craving a delicious chicken burger!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will provide a similar taste and texture. Just be sure to check the cooking time, as turkey may be leaner and cook slightly faster.
What Can I Substitute for Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing on hand, you can use Greek yogurt mixed with herbs, Caesar dressing, or even barbecue sauce for a different flavor twist. Just make sure whatever you use complements the other ingredients!
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked patties in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, just warm them up in the microwave or skillet until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months—just wrap them tightly before freezing!
Can I Grill These Burgers?
Yes! Grilling is a fantastic way to cook these burgers and adds great flavor. Just follow the same cooking times and temperatures as you would on the stovetop, and enjoy those char-grilled marks!
