Get ready for these yummy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers! They are juicy and packed with cheesy goodness, thanks to the cheddar cheese and ranch dressing mixed right into the chicken.
These burgers are super easy to whip up, and I love how they come together in no time. Perfect for a quick family dinner or a summer cookout with friends! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This recipe shines with ground chicken for its juiciness. If you’d like, you can swap it with ground turkey or even lean ground beef. Adjust the cooking time a bit if you use beef as it tends to cook faster.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Cheddar adds a sharp and creamy flavor. You could replace it with Monterey Jack for a milder taste or pepper jack for some heat! Just keep the amount the same for good melting.
Ranch Dressing: This ingredient brings in rich flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, try Greek yogurt mixed with a bit of garlic and herbs. It gives a nice tang while cutting down on calories.
Breadcrumbs: They help bind the patties. If you’re gluten-free, opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs or even crushed cornflakes for a nice crunch. I’ve even used rolled oats in a pinch!
Bacon: Crispy bacon takes these burgers up a notch. For a healthier touch, turkey bacon also works well, or you could skip it altogether for a lighter burger.
How Do I Shape Perfectly Even Burger Patties?
Shaping your patties evenly helps them cook through nicely. Use these handy tips for great results:
- Start with damp hands to prevent sticking. This makes the shaping easier.
- Divide your mixture into four sections and roll them into balls first. Then, flatten each ball gently into a patty shape.
- Use your thumb to create a slight indentation in the center of each patty. This helps them cook evenly and prevents puffing.
Remember, even thickness is key! About ¾ inch thick is ideal. Enjoy your cooking!
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
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Assembling the Burgers:
- 4 burger buns
- 8 slices of cooked bacon
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, additional ranch dressing
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 12 minutes to cook. So, in about 30 minutes, you’ll have tasty cheddar ranch chicken burgers ready to enjoy with family or friends!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Making the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Use your hands or a spatula to mix everything together until it’s well combined. This is where all the flavor comes from!
2. Forming the Patties:
Once your ingredients are mixed, divide the mixture into four equal portions. Shape each portion into a round patty, making sure they are evenly sized so they cook at the same rate.
3. Cooking the Patties:
Preheat a skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a little cooking oil to prevent sticking. Carefully place the chicken patties in the skillet and cook for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You want them to be golden-brown and fully cooked through. Don’t rush this step; nice, even cooking makes for a great burger!
4. Toasting the Buns:
While the burgers are cooking, you can prepare your burger buns. If you like, toast them lightly in the skillet or toast them in the oven to give them a little crunch and warmth.
5. Assembling the Burgers:
Now it’s time to build your burgers! Start by placing one cooked chicken patty on the bottom half of each bun. Add two slices of crispy bacon on top of the patty. If you enjoy extra toppings, throw on some fresh lettuce and tomato. Drizzle a little more ranch dressing over everything for that yummy flavor!
6. Serving:
Finally, cover each burger with the top half of the bun and serve immediately. Enjoy your homemade Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with your favorite side dishes!
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a great substitute and will provide a similar texture and flavor. Just ensure it reaches a safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) when cooked.
How Can I Make These Burgers Gluten-Free?
To make gluten-free burgers, substitute the regular breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour. You should also check the ranch dressing label to ensure it’s gluten-free.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftover Chicken Burgers?
Store any leftover cooked chicken burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop them in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or warm them in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
Can I Freeze the Chicken Burger Patties?
Absolutely! Form the patties and lay them on a baking sheet in a single layer to freeze. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
