These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a tasty twist on the classic burger! Made with juicy chicken, cheesy cheddar, and zesty ranch seasoning, they are super flavorful and fun to make.
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout! I love serving these on toasted buns with fresh lettuce and tomatoes. Trust me, they won’t last long on the grill! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the star of the show! If chicken isn’t available, try ground turkey or even lean beef as alternatives. Each will give a slightly different flavor but still create a delicious burger.
Ranch Dressing: I love how ranch adds a creamy, tangy kick to the burgers. You can substitute with Greek yogurt mixed with herbs for a healthier option or even homemade ranch if you’re up for it!
Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar gives that classic cheeseburger taste. Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a spicier touch. Just use your favorite cheese – it’ll still be great!
Seasonings: Garlic and onion powders keep things simple, but you can spice it up with paprika or chili powder if you like heat. Adjust seasonings to match your taste!
How Do You Make Juicy Chicken Burgers?
Making juicy chicken burgers can be easy if you follow these tips! First, don’t overmix the chicken with other ingredients; it helps keep the patties tender. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Mix gently until just combined to avoid tough burgers.
- Shape patties uniformly so they cook evenly.
- Cook on medium heat for 5-7 minutes on each side. A hot grill allows a nice sear without drying out the meat.
- Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Adding cheese in the last minute adds flavor and moisture!
These steps ensure your burgers are juicy and packed with flavor. Enjoy crafting your burgers! 🍔
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for serving)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 sandwich buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Optional: tomato slices, pickles, or other burger toppings
- Cooking oil or non-stick spray for grilling/pan-frying
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick, delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mix the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, ranch dressing, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until everything is just combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the burgers tough. We want them to be tender and juicy!
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. With your hands, shape each portion into burger patties that are about ¾-inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly and prevent puffing up.
3. Preheat Grill or Skillet:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. Lightly oil the cooking surface with a bit of cooking oil or non-stick spray to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Patties:
Place the chicken patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and that the outside is golden brown.
5. Add the Cheese:
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. Cover them with a lid or foil to help the cheese melt beautifully over the chicken.
6. Toast the Buns:
While the cheese is melting, toast the sandwich buns lightly on the grill or in the toaster for a nice, warm finish.
7. Assemble the Burgers:
Time to put it all together! Place a cooked chicken patty on the bottom half of each toasted bun. Top with fresh lettuce, any extra toppings you like (like tomato slices or pickles), and drizzle a little more ranch dressing on top. Finish with the top bun.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious cheddar ranch chicken burgers right away. They are perfect for a quick family dinner or a backyard barbecue. Enjoy every bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Yes, absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute and offers a similar texture and flavor. Just make sure to check the cooking time, as turkey can sometimes take a minute longer to ensure it reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make These Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger patties a day in advance! Form them and store them in the refrigerator, tightly wrapped in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. When ready to cook, just grill or fry them as per the recipe – no need for thawing if they are slightly frozen!
What Toppings Work Best with These Burgers?
We recommend classic toppings like crisp lettuce and juicy tomatoes. You can also add sliced pickles, avocado, bacon, or even jalapeños for an extra kick. Get creative! The ranch dressing adds a nice flavor, so keep it simple or dress it up according to your taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can also reassemble them with fresh toppings to keep them tasty!
