When it comes to burgers, beef patties often steal the spotlight, but these Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are here to change that. These burgers offer a delightful twist on a classic dish, combining the lightness of ground chicken with the bold flavors of ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese. They’re juicy, packed with flavor, and easy to make, making them a perfect option for busy weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop grill pan, these chicken burgers are sure to be a hit with family and friends.
This recipe makes 6-8 burgers, depending on how thick you like your patties, and can be customized with your favorite toppings. With only 350 calories per serving, these burgers are a tasty yet lighter option for your next meal.
Ingredients
This recipe yields 6-8 chicken burgers, making it perfect for a family meal or small gathering. The juicy patties are seasoned with ranch mix and filled with shredded cheddar cheese, offering a rich, savory bite in every mouthful.
What you will need:
2 lbs ground chicken
1 egg
½ cup plain bread crumbs
1 oz ranch seasoning mix
3 garlic cloves, smashed and minced
½ cup finely diced onion
½ cup finely shredded cheddar cheese
Optional toppings:
Lettuce
Tomato slices
Ranch dressing
Toasted buns
How to Make
These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are simple to make and come together in just a few steps. Follow this guide, and you’ll have delicious chicken burgers in no time.
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, bread crumbs, ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. The combination of egg and bread crumbs helps bind the patties together, ensuring they stay intact while cooking. Mix everything until it’s evenly combined. Be careful not to overmix, as this can make the patties too dense. - Shape the Patties:
Once the mixture is well combined, divide it into 6-8 equal portions, depending on how large you want your burgers. Use your hands to shape each portion into a patty. Make sure the patties are of uniform thickness so they cook evenly. - Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan:
Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken patties from sticking. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a nonstick skillet on the stove, and it will work just as well. - Cook the Patties:
Place the chicken patties on the hot grill and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side. Chicken should be cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. Avoid pressing down on the patties while they cook, as this can cause them to dry out. When done, remove the patties from the grill and let them rest for a couple of minutes before serving. - Serve the Burgers:
Serve the Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers on toasted buns with your choice of toppings. Popular choices include lettuce, tomatoes, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for an extra burst of flavor.
Helpful Tips:
- Handling Ground Chicken: Ground chicken can be a little sticky to work with. To make shaping the patties easier, wet your hands with a little water or lightly coat them with oil before forming the patties. This will prevent the mixture from sticking to your hands.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: Chicken needs to be cooked thoroughly to ensure it’s safe to eat. Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the patties, which should reach 165°F.
- Don’t Overcook: While it’s important to fully cook the chicken, be careful not to overcook the patties, as this can cause them to dry out. Keep an eye on them while grilling to avoid this.
Serving Suggestions:
- Toppings: Customize these burgers with your favorite toppings. Crisp lettuce, juicy tomatoes, pickles, and a dollop of ranch dressing pair perfectly with the savory flavors of the burger.
- Sides: Serve these burgers with traditional sides like French fries, sweet potato fries, or a fresh green salad. You can also opt for grilled vegetables to keep the meal light and healthy.
- Buns: For a low-carb option, skip the traditional buns and serve the burgers wrapped in lettuce. If you prefer a heartier meal, try using brioche or potato buns, which will soak up the flavors nicely without falling apart.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
Calories: 350 kcal
Carbohydrates: 5g
Protein: 30g
Fat: 21g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 140mg
Sodium: 700mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugars: 1g
Storage and Leftovers:
- Storing Leftovers: Store any leftover chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure they are fully cooled before storing them to maintain their texture and flavor.
- Reheating: To reheat the patties, place them in a hot skillet or grill for a few minutes on each side, or microwave them in short bursts to avoid drying them out.
- Freezing: You can freeze uncooked chicken patties by placing them in a single layer on a baking sheet until they are firm, then transferring them to a freezer-safe bag. To cook from frozen, simply add a few minutes to the grilling time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes, ground turkey can be substituted for ground chicken in this recipe. Just keep in mind that ground turkey may have a slightly different texture and flavor, but it will still make delicious burgers.
How can I make these burgers spicier?
To give these burgers a spicy kick, you can add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the burger mixture. You can also top them with spicy mayo or a slice of pepper jack cheese.
Can I bake the patties instead of grilling them?
Absolutely. If you prefer to bake the chicken burgers, preheat your oven to 375°F and place the patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Bake for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
What is the best cheese to use?
Cheddar is the perfect cheese for this recipe because it melts well and complements the ranch seasoning. However, you can experiment with other cheeses like pepper jack, mozzarella, or even Swiss to change up the flavor profile.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the patties ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.
Conclusion
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a delicious, lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers while still packing a flavorful punch. The combination of ranch seasoning, minced garlic, diced onion, and cheddar cheese makes these chicken patties juicy and full of savory goodness. They are perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or even meal prep, as they store well and reheat beautifully. With just a few simple ingredients and less than 30 minutes of prep and cook time, you can enjoy a homemade burger that’s both satisfying and nutritious.
Try customizing your Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with your favorite toppings and serve them with classic sides for a meal that will quickly become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re grilling outdoors or cooking them up on a stovetop grill pan, these burgers will be a hit every time!
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Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Total Time: 22 minutes
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10–12 minutes
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 6–8 burgers
- Calories: 350 kcal per serving (approximate)