These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! They combine lean chicken, zesty ranch seasoning, and melty cheddar cheese for a delicious treat.
They’re quick to whip up, so you can enjoy a tasty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. I love serving them with fresh veggies on the side—perfect for a summer BBQ! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the base for the burgers. If you want a richer flavor, ground turkey or beef works well too. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they can vary.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds creaminess and a nice flavor. For a twist, try pepper jack for some heat or even mozzarella for a milder taste.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This brings that classic ranch flavor. If you can’t find a packet, consider making your own blend with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and onion powder.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the patties. If you need a gluten-free option, use ground oats or gluten-free breadcrumbs. You can even crush some cornflakes as a substitute!
Green Onions: These add freshness and a mild onion taste. If you don’t have them, chopped chives or regular onions (cooked beforehand) can be used instead.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Patties Are Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken patties well ensures they’re safe to eat. Here are some tips:
- Make sure to use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Cook on medium heat for even cooking. If the heat is too high, the outside may burn before the inside cooks through.
- Let the patties rest for a minute before serving. This helps in keeping them juicy!
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green onions, finely chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices cooked bacon (optional)
- Mayonnaise or ranch dressing for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe will take about 15 minutes for preparation and around 12 minutes for cooking. So, in total, you can expect to spend about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
Grab a large bowl and combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, breadcrumbs, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until it’s well combined.
2. Form the Patties:
Once everything is mixed, divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty. Aim for them to be about the same thickness for even cooking.
3. Cook the Patties:
Preheat a large skillet or grill over medium heat. Lightly grease it with a bit of oil or cooking spray. Place the patties on the cooking surface and let them cook for about 5-6 minutes on one side. Then, flip them over and cook for another 5-6 minutes, or until they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Toast the Buns (Optional):
If you like your buns toasted, now is a good time to toast them lightly on the skillet or grill until they’re warm and slightly crispy.
5. Assemble the Burgers:
Start assembling your burgers! Take the bottom bun and spread a little mayonnaise or ranch dressing on it. Place your chicken patty on top, and if you’re using bacon, add a slice on top of the patty. Finally, add the top bun to complete your burger.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your easy cheddar ranch chicken burgers warm with your favorite sides. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey may take a couple of minutes longer to cook through. Ensure it also reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
How Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
To make these burgers gluten-free, simply swap the breadcrumbs for a gluten-free alternative, such as almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. Just make sure your ranch seasoning mix is also certified gluten-free!
Can I Freeze The Chicken Patties?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked chicken patties! Place them in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze for about an hour, then transfer them to a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before grilling or pan-frying.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through or heat them in the microwave for a quick option. If you want to retain some crispness, consider reheating in an oven or toaster oven.
