These Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy and packed with flavor! They’re made from ground chicken mixed with creamy cheddar and zesty ranch seasoning for a tasty twist.
Cooking these burgers is a breeze! I love how the cheese melts right in, making them extra delicious. Pair them with some crispy fries, and you’re all set for a fun meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Ground Chicken: This is the main ingredient that makes these burgers lean and tender. If you prefer, you can use ground turkey for a similar texture and taste. Just remember that turkey might need a bit more seasoning to boost the flavor.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: The sharpness adds a wonderful flavor. If you want a milder taste, you can use medium cheddar or even mozzarella. For a bit of tang, blue cheese works well too!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This brings that familiar ranch flavor. If you don’t have a mix, you can substitute with a blend of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder, along with a pinch of salt.
Mayonnaise: It’s optional but helps keep the burgers moist. You can substitute it with Greek yogurt for a healthier twist or leave it out if you want to cut calories.
How Can I Make Sure the Burgers Are Juicy and Flavored Correctly?
The key to juicy burgers lies in how you mix and cook the chicken. Here’s what you should keep in mind:
- Mix gently. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers, so just blend until combined.
- Shaping is important. Make them about 3/4 inch thick to ensure they cook evenly.
- Don’t rush the cooking! Grill them for about 5-6 minutes per side, and check that they reach 165°F (75°C) for safety.
- Adding cheese at the end gives a nice melt and flavor boost!
Follow these tips, and your burgers will be juicy and bursting with flavor. Enjoy your cookout!
Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons ranch seasoning mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (optional, for extra moisture in patties)
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 4 slices cheddar cheese (for topping)
- Lettuce leaves
- Ranch dressing (for topping)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes to prepare and another 15-20 minutes to cook the burgers. Just a few easy steps, and you’ll be ready to enjoy your homemade Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prep the Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix everything gently with your hands or a spatula until all the ingredients are evenly distributed—just make sure not to overmix!
2. Form the Patties:
Divide the chicken mixture into 4 equal portions. Use your hands to form each portion into a patty about 3/4 inch thick. This thickness helps them cook evenly.
3. Grill Time!
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking. Grill the chicken patties for about 5-6 minutes on each side, or until they’re fully cooked through. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety.
4. Melt the Cheese:
During the last minute of cooking, place a slice of cheddar cheese on each patty. This will give it that gooey, delicious melt we all love!
5. Toast the Buns:
If you’d like, toast the hamburger buns lightly on the grill while the patties finish cooking. This adds a nice crunch to your burgers!
6. Assemble the Burgers:
Now it’s time to put it all together! Start by laying down a lettuce leaf on the bottom half of each bun. Place the cheesy chicken patty on top, add a drizzle of ranch dressing, and finally, cap it off with the top bun.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your burgers immediately with your favorite sides, like fries or a simple salad. Enjoy your juicy, Flavorful Easy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Chicken?
Yes, you can! Ground turkey is a great substitute for ground chicken in this recipe. Just keep in mind that turkey may require slightly more seasoning for flavor, so feel free to adjust the ranch seasoning 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 in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may want to add a little splash of water in the microwave to keep them moist.
What if I Don’t Have Ranch Seasoning?
No problem! If you don’t have ranch seasoning on hand, you can make a quick substitute using a blend of dried herbs like dill, parsley, and chives combined with garlic powder and onion powder. Just mix them to taste for a similar flavor profile!
Can I Freeze These Burgers?
Absolutely! You can freeze the uncooked patties. Place them between layers of parchment paper and store them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, thaw them in the fridge overnight and proceed with grilling as usual.
