These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are delicious and packed with flavor! Ground chicken is mixed with ranch seasoning and real cheddar cheese, making each bite cheesy and tasty.
Making these burgers is a breeze! I love grilling them up during the summer and serving them with fresh veggies and a simple bun. Trust me, they’ll quickly become a family favorite! 🍔
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: Using ground chicken keeps these burgers lean and juicy. If you’d like some extra flavor, you can swap it for ground turkey or even lean ground beef.
Cheddar Cheese: Shredded cheddar adds great flavor and gooey texture. If you’re in the mood for something different, try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder option.
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This brings a delicious herby flavor. No ranch mix? You can make your own with dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder, or use a different seasoning blend like Italian seasoning.
Bacon: Cooked bacon gives a crispy texture. For a healthier choice, turkey bacon works well, or you can leave it out for a vegetarian option.
Whole Wheat Burger Buns: Whole wheat adds fiber to your meal. If you prefer, any burger bun will work—try brioche or gluten-free options for variety.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Burgers Are Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking chicken burgers can be tricky, so here are some tips to keep them juicy and safe to eat:
- Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Don’t overmix the meat mixture. Just combine until everything is mixed, and then stop to keep the burgers tender.
- When shaping the patties, make a small indent in the center. This helps them cook evenly and prevents the center from puffing up.
- Cook on medium heat. This gives them time to develop a nice golden crust without drying out.
How to Make Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Burgers:
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet ranch seasoning mix (about 1 oz)
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 4 slices bacon, cooked and crumbled
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 whole wheat burger buns
For Serving:
- Mayonnaise, for spreading
- Optional: Sliced green onions or lettuce for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious burger recipe will take you about 15 minutes to prepare and about 15-20 minutes to cook. So, in just around 30-35 minutes, you’ll have scrumptious Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Mixing the Ingredients:
Start by placing the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning mix, breadcrumbs, and the egg into a large mixing bowl. Using your hands or a spoon, mix everything together until it’s well blended. The mixture should be sticky but hold together nicely.
2. Forming the Patties:
Once combined, add salt and pepper to the mixture, seasoning it to your liking. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a burger patty. Make sure they are evenly shaped so they cook evenly.
3. Cooking the Burgers:
Now it’s time to cook! Preheat your skillet or grill over medium heat. Place the chicken patties in the skillet or on the grill, cooking for 6-7 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check they’re done by ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
4. Preparing the Bacon:
While the burgers are cooking, prepare the bacon. Cook it until it’s crispy in a separate pan. Once cooked, place the bacon on paper towels to soak up the excess grease.
5. Toasting the Buns:
Next, lightly toast the whole wheat burger buns. You can do this on the grill or in another pan until they are golden brown.
6. Assembling the Burgers:
It’s time to build your burger! Start by spreading a generous layer of mayonnaise on the bottom half of each bun. Place a chicken burger patty on top, then sprinkle with the crumbled bacon. Feel free to add any optional toppings like sliced green onions or lettuce for an extra crunch!
7. Finishing Touches:
Finally, place the top half of the bun on your burger and serve warm. Enjoy every bite of your Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers! They’re perfect for a quick dinner or a fun gathering.
Can I Substitute Ground Turkey for Ground Chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great alternative and will give you a similar flavor and texture. Just ensure that you check the internal temperature to reach 165°F as well.
What Can I Use Instead of Breadcrumbs?
If you don’t have breadcrumbs on hand, crushed tortilla chips or crackers can work too! You can also use rolled oats for a healthier twist, just make sure to grind them into smaller pieces for better integration.
How to Store Leftover Burgers?
Store any leftover burgers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them gently in a skillet or microwave. If reheating in the microwave, consider covering them with a damp paper towel to keep them moist.
Can I Make the Burgers Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger patties in advance! Simply shape them and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together. If you want to freeze them, place parchment paper between each patty and store in an airtight bag for up to 3 months, defrosting in the fridge overnight before cooking.
