These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and super tasty! Made with ground chicken, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning, they’re full of flavor and ready in no time.
You’ll love how quick they come together! I often serve them with fresh veggies or crispy fries. They make a fun dinner, plus they never fail to impress the family! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main protein for your burgers. If you want a leaner option, ground turkey works well too. For a little more flavor, consider using ground beef or pork, but the cooking time may vary.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a lovely flavor. Feel free to mix it up with other types of cheese like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for more kick.
Ranch Dressing: This ingredient gives the burgers a delicious creamy taste. You can use a homemade ranch or swap with other dressings like blue cheese or a creamy Caesar dressing for a different twist.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the mixture together. If you’re looking for gluten-free options, use crushed gluten-free crackers or oats instead.
Spices: Garlic and onion powders add flavor without extra effort. If you want a stronger taste, fresh minced garlic or onions could be great, but keep in mind this will change the moisture content of the mix.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Burgers Are Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken burgers correctly is essential to keep them juicy and safe to eat. Here’s how to achieve that perfect cook:
- Always preheat your skillet or grill to medium heat. This helps create a nice crust.
- Cook for 5-7 minutes on each side. Look for a golden-brown color.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures safety and juiciness.
- If you notice any sticking, let them be for a bit longer; they will naturally release once browned.
Following these tips will help you create tender, flavorful chicken burgers that everyone will enjoy!
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Burger Patties:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 hamburger buns
- Cooked bacon strips (optional)
- Mayonnaise (for spreading, optional)
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish, optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to cook, giving you a total of 30 minutes to delicious Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Burger Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s nice and well combined. This is the yummy mixture that will make your burgers super tasty!
2. Form the Patties:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a burger patty that’s about ¾ inch thick. Make sure they are even so they cook nicely!
3. Cook the Chicken Burgers:
Next, heat a skillet or grill over medium heat. Lightly grease it with cooking spray or a bit of oil to prevent sticking. Place your burger patties on the hot skillet and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and cooked through. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe eating!
4. Assemble Your Burgers:
If you’re using bacon, lay a strip on the bottom half of each bun to add some extra flavor. Spread a little mayonnaise on the bottom of each bun as well. Place a cooked chicken burger patty on top, and then cover it with the other half of the bun. If you like, sprinkle some chopped green onions on top for a fresh touch.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are ready to be enjoyed! Serve them warm and watch everyone dig in. Enjoy the delicious flavors!
Can I Substitute Ground Chicken with Another Meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or lean ground beef would work well as substitutes. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, especially if you choose beef, so ensure it’s cooked to the proper temperature of 160°F (71°C) for turkey and 165°F (74°C) for chicken.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you don’t have ranch dressing on hand, you can substitute it with any creamy dressing like blue cheese or Caesar dressing. For a lighter option, mix yogurt with your favorite herbs and spices to create a homemade dressing that works beautifully in this recipe!
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked chicken burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerato for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through. If you want to store them longer, you can freeze the cooked burgers for up to 3 months.
What Can I Serve with Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers?
These burgers pair wonderfully with a side of sweet potato fries or a fresh salad. You could also serve them with coleslaw or potato chips for a classic picnic vibe. Enjoy!
