These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a fun twist on a classic! Juicy chicken patties mixed with tangy ranch and gooey cheddar cheese make every bite tasty.
You can grill them, fry them, or even bake them—whatever works best for you! I love topping mine with fresh lettuce and tomatoes. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken is lean and works well for these burgers. If you prefer a richer taste, ground turkey is a great alternative. You could also use ground beef, but it will change the flavor profile.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor, but feel free to substitute with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicy kick. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This is the flavor hero of the recipe! If you don’t have a ranch mix, you can make a homemade version with dried dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and some salt. It’s super easy!
Breadcrumbs: I use regular breadcrumbs, but panko will give extra crunch. If you’re gluten-free, try almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs. They hold the mixture together just as well.
Burger Buns: I like classic burger buns, but whole grain or brioche adds a nice touch too. For a low-carb option, use lettuce wraps or portobello mushrooms instead of buns.
How Do I Shape and Cook the Perfect Patty?
Shaping the patties evenly is key to even cooking. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with your mixture in a bowl. Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions. Roll each portion into a ball.
- Flatten each ball gently into a patty shape, about 1 inch thick.
- Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb. This helps them cook evenly and keeps them flat.
When cooking, don’t squish the patties down with your spatula; it keeps the juices in. Cook them on medium heat for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they hit 165°F. It’s worth the wait for juicy burgers!
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns
- 4 slices cooked bacon
- Mayonnaise or ranch dressing for spreading
- Optional: lettuce and sliced tomatoes for toppings
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prepare and another 12-15 minutes to cook. In no time, you’ll have delicious chicken burgers ready to serve!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, add the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, breadcrumbs, minced garlic, and chopped green onions. Sprinkle in a little salt and pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together until well combined.
2. Shape the Patties:
Once your mixture is ready, divide it into 4 equal parts. Form each part into a round patty, making sure they are all about the same size so they cook evenly.
3. Cook the Patties:
Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. If your skillet tends to stick, give it a light spray or rub with a bit of oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and are golden brown.
4. Prepare the Buns:
While the patties are cooking, grab your burger buns. On the bottom half of each bun, spread a generous amount of mayonnaise or ranch dressing. This will add flavor and help hold your toppings in place!
5. Assemble Your Burgers:
Once the patties are cooked through, place each one on a bun. Crown each burger with a slice of crispy bacon. If you like, you can also add optional toppings like fresh lettuce and sliced tomatoes for a little crunch.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Your Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are ready to serve! Enjoy them immediately for a tasty meal that’s sure to please everyone.
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time if necessary, as ground turkey can differ slightly in cook time based on its fat content.
How Do I Store Leftover Chicken Burgers?
Leftover chicken burgers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side until warmed through, or microwave them for a quick option!
Can I Freeze the Chicken Burgers?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked patties! Just lay them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper to freeze individually before transferring to a freezer bag. They can be stored this way for up to 3 months. To cook, thaw in the fridge overnight and then follow the cooking instructions as normal.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Seasoning?
If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can create a homemade mix by combining dried parsley, dill, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. This will give a similar flavor profile for your chicken burgers!
