These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! The mix of melted cheddar cheese and zesty ranch creates a tasty treat for your taste buds.
Making these burgers is a breeze! I like to top mine with extra ranch and some fresh veggies. Perfect for sunny BBQ days or cozy dinners at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: I love using ground chicken for these burgers as it makes them juicy and light. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey works well too. Just make sure to keep an eye on the cooking time, as turkey can dry out faster.
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing adds a nice creamy flavor. You can substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs if you’re aiming for something healthier. A homemade version is also a great way to control the ingredients!
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar cheese melts beautifully. I like sharp cheddar for an extra kick, but any cheese you enjoy can work, like Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier twist.
Breadcrumbs: Breadcrumbs help bind the burgers. If you’re gluten-free, try using crushed gluten-free crackers or oats as a substitute. They can still hold everything together!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Burgers Stay Juicy?
Keeping chicken burgers juicy is all about the technique! Here are some tips to help you out:
- Don’t overmix the meat when combining ingredients; it can make them tough.
- Make a small indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing up.
- Cook them on medium heat, not high. This ensures they cook through without drying out.
- Always check for doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure they reach 165°F (75°C).
Following these tips will help you serve up delicious, juicy chicken burgers every time! Enjoy your cooking!
Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- ½ cup ranch dressing (plus extra for topping)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Optional: tomato slices, pickles
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes approximately 15 minutes of preparation time and around 12-15 minutes of cooking time. So in total, you’ll need about 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend barbecue!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Burger Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, minced garlic, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix gently but thoroughly until everything is well combined.
2. Form the Patties:
Shape the chicken mixture into 4 equal-sized patties. Make sure they are not too thick, as they need to cook all the way through. You can use your thumb to press a slight indentation in the center of each patty—this helps them cook evenly.
3. Heat Your Grill or Skillet:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. If you’re using a skillet, you may want to lightly oil the surface with a little cooking spray or a tiny bit of oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Chicken Patties:
Place the patties in the heated grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures they’re safe to eat and juicy!
5. Melt the Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, add an extra slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty to melt. Cover the grill or skillet briefly to help it melt nicely.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese melts, you can toast the hamburger buns lightly on the grill or in a separate pan until they are golden and slightly crispy. This adds a nice texture to your burger!
7. Assemble Your Burgers:
To assemble, place each chicken patty on a bottom bun. Top it with lettuce, a generous dollop of ranch dressing, and any additional toppings you like, such as tomato slices or pickles. Then, add the top bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the burgers immediately while they’re warm and juicy. These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are sure to be a hit with everyone!
This recipe combines juicy ground chicken with creamy ranch and melted cheddar, topped with fresh lettuce and ranch sauce for an easy, tasty burger. Happy cooking!
FAQ for Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will work well in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey can dry out more easily, so make sure to monitor cooking times closely.
Can I Make These Burgers in Advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties ahead of time! Shape them and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking. Alternatively, you can freeze the uncooked patties for up to 3 months—just thaw them in the fridge before cooking.
How Should I Store Leftover Burgers?
If you have leftover burgers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet or microwave until heated through. You can add a bit of ranch dressing to keep them moist!
What Are Some Good Toppings for These Burgers?
You can get creative with toppings! Besides lettuce and ranch, try adding sliced tomatoes, pickles, avocado, or crispy bacon. Grilled onions or jalapeños also add a nice kick for those who like extra flavor!
