Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a flavorful twist on the classic burger, bringing together the savory richness of cheddar cheese with the tangy kick of ranch seasoning. These burgers are easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. Made with ground chicken, they are a lighter alternative to traditional beef burgers but are still packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground chicken: Ground chicken is a lean protein that forms the base of these burgers. It’s a great alternative to beef, offering a lighter texture and a slightly milder flavor that pairs well with bold seasonings.
- 1 egg: The egg acts as a binder, helping to hold the burger mixture together and ensuring that the patties don’t fall apart during cooking.
- ½ cup plain bread crumbs: Bread crumbs provide structure and help absorb some of the moisture from the ground chicken, giving the burgers a firm texture.
- 1 oz ranch seasoning mix: Ranch seasoning adds a tangy, herby flavor to the burgers, making them incredibly tasty. You can use a store-bought mix or make your own at home with a combination of dried herbs and spices.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced: Fresh garlic adds a punch of savory flavor that complements the ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese.
- ½ cup finely diced onion: Onion adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the burgers, enhancing their overall flavor.
- ½ cup finely shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts into the burgers as they cook, adding a rich, cheesy flavor and a bit of moisture to the patties.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, and plain bread crumbs. Mix well to ensure that the egg and bread crumbs are evenly distributed throughout the chicken.
- Add Seasonings:
- To the chicken mixture, add the ranch seasoning mix, minced garlic, and finely diced onion. These ingredients will infuse the burgers with flavor, making each bite deliciously savory and satisfying.
- Incorporate the Cheddar Cheese:
- Gently fold in the finely shredded cheddar cheese. The cheese should be evenly distributed throughout the mixture, so every bite of the burger has that wonderful cheesy flavor.
- Form the Patties:
- Divide the chicken mixture into equal portions, depending on the size of the patties you want to make. Typically, this recipe yields about 6-8 medium-sized burgers.
- Shape each portion into a patty, about 1 inch thick. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb—this helps the burgers cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up in the middle.
- Cook the Burgers:
- Heat a grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium heat. If you’re using a grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. If using a pan, add a little oil to the pan and heat it until shimmering.
- Place the patties on the grill or in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature of the burgers reaches 165°F (75°C). Ground chicken needs to be fully cooked, so be sure to check the temperature with a meat thermometer.
- If you prefer, you can add additional cheddar cheese slices on top of the burgers during the last minute of cooking for an extra cheesy finish.
- Serve:
- Once cooked, remove the burgers from the heat and let them rest for a couple of minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the burgers even more flavorful and juicy.
- Serve the Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers on your choice of buns with your favorite toppings. Some great options include lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles, and extra ranch dressing. Pair the burgers with a side of fries, a salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Avoid Overmixing: When combining the ingredients, be careful not to overmix the ground chicken. Overmixing can lead to tough burgers. Mix just until the ingredients are combined.
- Make-Ahead Option: You can prepare the burger patties ahead of time and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can be a time-saver, especially if you’re planning to make these for a gathering or busy weeknight dinner.
- Cooking Temperature: Ground chicken can dry out if overcooked. Keep an eye on the internal temperature, and remove the burgers from the heat as soon as they reach 165°F (75°C).
- Toppings: Customize your burgers with a variety of toppings. Try adding crispy bacon, avocado slices, or even a fried egg for an indulgent twist.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Healthier Option: Using ground chicken makes these burgers a lighter option compared to traditional beef burgers, without sacrificing flavor.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning, garlic, onion, and cheddar cheese creates a mouthwatering flavor profile that everyone will love.
- Versatile: These burgers are perfect for grilling, pan-frying, or even baking. They can be enjoyed as a classic burger or served as a protein option in a salad or wrap.
- Kid-Friendly: The cheesy, flavorful burgers are sure to be a hit with kids, making them a great option for family meals.
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a delicious and satisfying meal that combines the best of both worlds—comfort food with a healthier twist. The ranch seasoning and cheddar cheese bring bold flavors that pair perfectly with the juicy ground chicken, while the garlic and onion add a depth of flavor that takes these burgers to the next level. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, looking for a quick weeknight dinner, or just craving a good burger, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy them with your favorite toppings and sides for a meal that’s both easy to make and incredibly tasty!
