These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! With tasty cheddar cheese and zesty ranch dressing mixed right in, every bite is delicious!
Making these burgers is a breeze! I love grilling them up on a sunny day and serving them with fresh veggies. Trust me, you’ll want to make extra just in case! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Ground chicken keeps these burgers light and juicy. If you prefer a stronger flavor, you can use ground turkey or even a mix of both. Just keep in mind that turkey can be a bit dryer!
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds a great taste and creaminess. For a twist, try using pepper jack for some heat or mozzarella for a milder flavor. You could also go with vegan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option!
Ranch Dressing: Ranch dressing not only adds flavor but also moisture to the patties. If you’re making it from scratch, use Greek yogurt with ranch seasoning. Alternatively, any creamy dressing can work if you’re in a pinch.
Panko Breadcrumbs: These give the burgers a nice texture. If you don’t have panko, regular breadcrumbs will also work, but the burgers might be slightly denser. Gluten-free breadcrumbs are another good option!
How Can I Keep My Chicken Burgers Juicy?
One of the most common issues with chicken burgers is they can become dry if overcooked. Here are some tips to keep your burgers juicy:
- Mix the ingredients gently. Overmixing can make the patties tough.
- Make a slight indentation in the center of each patty before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up.
- Cook on medium heat to prevent burning while ensuring they cook through. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t forget to let your burgers rest for a minute or two after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping them moist.
These tips will help you serve up some deliciously juicy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers every time! Enjoy!
Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing (plus extra for topping)
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves (for topping)
- Additional cheddar cheese slices (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burger recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and another 12-15 minutes to cook, totaling around 25-30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, panko breadcrumbs, the egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything together gently. You want the ingredients to be well combined but avoid overmixing to keep the patties tender.
2. Shaping the Patties:
Once the mixture is ready, divide it into 4 equal portions. Shape each portion into a burger patty that’s about 1/2 inch thick. This size helps them cook evenly.
3. Heating the Grill:
Preheat your grill or skillet over medium heat. If you’re using a skillet, lightly oil the surface with cooking spray or a small amount of oil to prevent sticking.
4. Cooking the Patties:
Place the chicken patties on the grill or skillet and cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. You’ll want to make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and have a nice golden brown color.
5. Adding Cheddar:
In the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on top of each patty. Cover them (if using a skillet) to help the cheese melt perfectly.
6. Toasting the Buns:
While the cheese melts, toast your hamburger buns lightly on the grill or in a toaster. This adds flavor and helps prevent sogginess.
7. Assembling the Burgers:
To assemble, place the cooked chicken patty on the bottom half of each bun. Top with fresh lettuce and a dollop of ranch dressing, then cap it off with the bun crown.
8. Serving:
Serve your burgers immediately with your favorite sides, like fries, chips, or a salad. Enjoy a juicy, cheesy, and flavorful chicken burger with homemade ranch goodness in every bite!
FAQ for Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey can be used as a substitute for ground chicken. Just keep in mind that turkey is typically leaner, which can lead to slightly drier burgers. Adding a bit more ranch dressing or using dark meat turkey can help keep them moist.
How Do I Store Leftover Burgers?
Store leftover burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in the microwave or on a skillet until heated through. You can also freeze them for up to 3 months; just thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Can I Make the Patties in Advance?
Yes! You can prepare the burger patties a day ahead of time. Shape them and place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, then cover and refrigerate. Just cook them as directed when you’re ready to serve!
What Can I Substitute for Panko Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have panko breadcrumbs, you can use regular breadcrumbs, though your patties may be a bit denser. Crushed crackers or oatmeal also work well as a substitute. Just adjust the quantity to achieve a similar texture.
Feel free to reach out if you have any other questions or need more tips for making these delicious burgers! Enjoy your cooking!
