Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe

This Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burger recipe combines the savory flavor of ranch seasoning with juicy ground chicken and melted cheddar cheese, creating a delicious, satisfying meal perfect for any occasion. These burgers are tender, flavorful, and super easy to make. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking them on the stovetop, these chicken burgers are sure to become a family favorite.

The Popularity of Ranch and Chicken in American Cuisine

Ranch seasoning is a staple in American kitchens, known for its tangy, herby flavor that complements a wide variety of dishes. Combining ranch seasoning with chicken is a beloved combination, frequently seen in salads, sandwiches, and casseroles. This Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burger takes those familiar flavors and turns them into a juicy, cheesy burger that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer BBQ.

Key Ingredients and Why They Matter

Ground Chicken

Ground chicken is the base of this burger, offering a leaner alternative to beef while still maintaining a juicy texture. It’s the perfect protein for soaking up the bold ranch flavors.

• Pro Tip: Use ground chicken with a bit of fat (such as 93% lean) for extra moisture, as leaner cuts can sometimes dry out during cooking.

Ranch Seasoning

This recipe uses ranch seasoning mix, which is packed with herbs like dill, parsley, and garlic powder, giving the burgers a tangy, savory flavor.

• Tip: You can make your own ranch seasoning by combining garlic powder, onion powder, dill, parsley, salt, and pepper for a fresher taste.

Cheddar Cheese

Cheddar cheese adds a sharp, creamy element to these burgers. It’s mixed directly into the patties for maximum flavor and also melts beautifully on top as they cook.

• Tip: Use sharp cheddar for a more intense flavor, or experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack for a spicier kick.

Breadcrumbs and Egg

A small amount of breadcrumbs and an egg act as binders to hold the burger patties together. They also help keep the burgers tender and juicy.

How to Make Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers

Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture

In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, and one egg. Mix until everything is well incorporated, but be careful not to overwork the mixture as this can make the burgers tough.

• Tip: You can add a tablespoon of mayonnaise to the mixture for extra moisture.

Step 2: Shape the Patties

Divide the mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties about 1/2 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty to prevent them from puffing up during cooking.

• Pro Tip: For even-sized patties, use a kitchen scale to weigh the portions before shaping them.

Step 3: Cook the Burgers

Heat a grill or stovetop skillet over medium heat and lightly oil the surface. Cook the burgers for about 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

• Tip: If grilling, close the grill lid to help the burgers cook evenly. If cooking on the stovetop, you can cover the skillet with a lid to trap heat and ensure the center of the burgers cooks through.

Step 4: Toast the Buns

While the burgers are cooking, lightly butter the burger buns and toast them on the grill or in a separate skillet until golden brown. This step adds a delicious crunch and helps prevent the buns from becoming soggy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers on toasted buns with your favorite toppings like lettuce, tomato, and onion. For a little extra flavor, spread some ranch dressing or barbecue sauce on the buns. You can also add a slice of extra cheddar cheese on top of the burgers for an extra cheesy bite.

Pair these burgers with classic sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or a side salad to round out the meal.

Variations and Add-Ins

Spicy Cheddar Ranch Burgers

For a spicier version, mix diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of hot sauce into the ground chicken mixture. You can also top the burgers with pepper jack cheese for a spicy, melty finish.

Bacon Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers

Add cooked, crispy bacon to the burger mixture or layer bacon strips on top of the cooked burgers for an extra layer of smoky flavor.

BBQ Ranch Chicken Burgers

For a BBQ twist, stir in a tablespoon of your favorite barbecue sauce into the burger mixture and serve the burgers with a dollop of BBQ sauce on top.

Dietary Adaptations

These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers can be adapted to fit different dietary needs:

• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and gluten-free buns to make these burgers suitable for a gluten-free diet.
• Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheddar cheese with a dairy-free cheese alternative and omit the cheese in the burger mixture if needed.
• Low-Carb/Keto: Serve the burgers in lettuce wraps or on low-carb buns to make them keto-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these burgers ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the burger patties up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator until you’re ready to cook them.

How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover cooked burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.

Can I freeze the burger patties?
Yes! You can freeze the uncooked burger patties by placing them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Once frozen, transfer the patties to a freezer-safe bag or container and store them for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well in this recipe and can be used as a 1:1 substitute for ground chicken.