These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and flavorful, bringing together ground chicken, tasty ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar cheese. Perfect for a quick family dinner!
These burgers are sure to make everyone smile! I love serving them with some fresh veggies on the side. They’re a hit at our grill-outs—try them and enjoy the thumbs up! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the burger! You can also use ground turkey. If you prefer beef or a plant-based option, those work well too. Just remember that the flavor and texture may differ slightly.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I enjoy the sharpness of cheddar in these burgers. If you’re looking for something milder, Monterey Jack is a great alternative. Vegan cheese can also work for a dairy-free option.
Ranch Dressing: The ranch adds creaminess and flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, there are plenty of vegan ranch dressings available. Homemade ranch is also a fun alternative, letting you control the ingredients!
Breadcrumbs: These help bind the burger ingredients together. If you’re gluten-free, use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed gluten-free crackers. Also, oats can work in a pinch!
Green Onions: These add a nice fresh crunch. If you don’t have them, yellow or red onions can substitute, just use a bit less as their flavor is stronger.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Cooked Chicken Patties?
Cooking chicken patties can be tricky since you want them juicy on the inside but nicely browned on the outside. Here are a few tips:
- Use medium heat to prevent burning while allowing the insides to cook through.
- Don’t flip the patties too often; let them cook undisturbed for about 6-7 minutes on each side to develop a nice crust.
- Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Letting them rest for a couple of minutes off the heat helps keep them juicy.
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices cooked bacon (optional)
- Extra ranch dressing for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and approximately 15-20 minutes to cook. So, you can expect to have your tasty burgers ready in about 30-35 minutes total. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, chopped green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined. Make sure all the ingredients are evenly distributed!
2. Shape the Patties:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into four equal portions. Take each portion and shape it into a round patty. You can make them as thick or thin as you like, but aiming for about ½ inch thick should cook nicely!
3. Cook the Patties:
Now it’s time to cook! Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the chicken patties in the skillet and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden brown and fully cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Let Them Rest:
Once the patties are cooked, remove them from the skillet and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep them juicy and flavorful.
5. Assemble Your Burgers:
To put your burgers together, take a soft hamburger bun and place a chicken patty on the bottom half. If you’re using bacon, add a slice on top, and then drizzle some ranch dressing over it. Finish with the top half of the bun!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s time to enjoy your burgers! Serve them right away with extra ranch dressing on the side if you like. Dig in and savor every bite of your easy cheddar ranch chicken burgers!
Can I Substitute Ground Chicken with Another Meat?
Absolutely! You can use ground turkey, lean beef, or even ground pork as a substitute for ground chicken. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of meat you choose, so always ensure your patties reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety.
How Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
To make the burgers gluten-free, simply replace the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or oats. You can also use ground almond flour as an alternative that adds a nice texture. And for the buns, look for gluten-free hamburger buns available at most supermarkets.
Can I Make the Patties Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time! Shape them and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. If you want to make them further in advance, you can freeze the uncooked patties with parchment paper in between to prevent sticking. Just thaw them in the fridge overnight before cooking.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Burgers?
Store any leftover chicken burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until heated through, to maintain their juicy texture!
