Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers

Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers Delicious Dinner

ByAnna

Sink your teeth into the ultimate chicken burger that’s bursting with bold, zesty flavor. Imagine juicy ground chicken infused with ranch seasoning, oozing with melted cheddar, and hugged by a toasted bun with all your favorite fixings. This burger is all about that irresistible combination of creamy, cheesy, and savory with a satisfying crunch and a kick of ranch tang in every bite.

Behind the Recipe

This recipe came to life during a backyard BBQ experiment. Tired of the same old beef burgers, I decided to switch things up and tossed together ground chicken, sharp cheddar, and a sprinkle of ranch seasoning. The result? A burger so flavorful and juicy, it instantly earned a permanent spot in the dinner rotation. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering, these burgers have a way of stealing the spotlight.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

While chicken burgers themselves have been a lighter alternative to beef for decades, the combination of ranch and cheddar gives this version an unmistakably American twist. Ranch dressing was invented in the 1950s in California, and its creamy, herby flavor quickly made it a household staple. When paired with the sharp, bold character of cheddar cheese, it creates a crave-worthy flavor duo that’s right at home in modern comfort food.

Why You’ll Love Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers Delicious Dinner

These burgers are more than just a quick fix—they’re a flavor-packed crowd favorite. Here’s why you’ll crave them again and again:

Versatile: Serve them on buns, in lettuce wraps, or even crumbled over salads.
Budget-Friendly: Ground chicken and pantry staples keep costs low.
Quick and Easy: On the table in under 30 minutes.
Customizable: Swap the cheese or spice level to suit your mood.
Crowd-Pleasing: Loved by both kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Friendly: Patties can be prepped and chilled in advance.
Great for Leftovers: Reheat easily for lunch the next day.

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Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers

Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers

  • Author: Anna
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 27 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Grilling / Pan-frying
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Gluten-free option available
Print Recipe

Description

Juicy Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers combine tender ground chicken with creamy ranch seasoning and melted cheddar cheese, delivering bold flavors perfect for grilling. These flavorful, family-friendly burgers stay moist and tender, ideal for summer BBQs or quick weeknight dinners.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb ground chicken
  • 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 green onions, sliced
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 4 burger buns, lightly toasted

Optional Toppings

  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Lettuce leaves
  • Pickles
  • Favorite condiments (e.g., chipotle mayo, honey mustard)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, ranch seasoning, shredded cheddar, green onions, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently with clean hands or a spatula until just combined to keep the mixture tender and juicy.
  2. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions and shape each into a thick patty about ¾ inch high. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb to prevent puffing during cooking.
  3. Preheat Your Grill or Pan: Heat your grill or skillet to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates or pan to prevent sticking before adding the patties.
  4. Cook the Burgers: Grill or pan-fry the patties for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the cheese inside is melted and bubbly.
  5. Assemble and Serve: Lightly toast burger buns. Place cooked patties on buns and add desired toppings such as lettuce, tomato, and pickles. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

  • Don’t overmix the chicken mixture to keep the burgers tender.
  • Indenting the patties helps prevent them from puffing up while cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety and juiciness.
  • Let patties rest 3-5 minutes after cooking to redistribute juices.
  • Experiment with toppings like chipotle mayo or honey mustard for added flavor layers.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 burger with bun
  • Calories: 400
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 550mg
  • Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 10g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 30g
  • Cholesterol: 110mg

Keywords: Chicken burgers, Ranch seasoning, Cheddar cheese, Grilled chicken, Family dinner, BBQ recipe

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Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

For burgers that are juicy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked every time, keep these tips in mind:

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  1. Don’t Overmix the Meat: Mix until just combined to keep the burgers tender.
  2. Chill Before Cooking: Letting the patties rest in the fridge helps them hold their shape.
  3. Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the center reaches 165°F without overcooking.
  4. Oil the Grill or Pan: Prevent sticking and get that beautiful sear.
  5. Melt the Cheese Last Minute: Cover the pan briefly to melt cheddar without overcooking the patty.

    6. Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

    Gather these tools for an easy cooking flow:

    Mixing Bowl: For combining all ingredients.
    Spatula: To flip burgers cleanly.
    Grill or Skillet: Choose your cooking method.
    Meat Thermometer: To ensure safe, juicy doneness.
    Plate and Foil: For resting patties before serving.
    Cheese Grater: If shredding cheddar fresh.

    Ingredients in Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers Delicious Dinner

    The combination of ingredients here creates bold flavor and juicy texture. Let’s break it down:

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    1. Ground Chicken: 1 pound — the tender base of our burger.
    2. Shredded Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup — adds richness and gooey texture.
    3. Ranch Seasoning Mix: 2 tablespoons — gives that signature tang and herbaceous kick.
    4. Breadcrumbs: 1/3 cup — helps bind the patties and adds structure.
    5. Egg: 1 large — keeps everything together.
    6. Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon — boosts savory depth.
    7. Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon — adds subtle sweetness.
    8. Salt: 1/2 teaspoon — enhances all the flavors.
    9. Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon — brings balance and a bit of heat.
    10. Burger Buns: 4 — toasted for texture contrast.
    11. Lettuce, Tomato, Red Onion: optional toppings — add freshness and crunch.
    12. Ranch Dressing: for serving — ties everything together.

      13. Ingredient Substitutions

      Need to improvise? Here are some easy swaps:

      Ground Chicken: Ground turkey or plant-based ground.
      Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Colby Jack or Pepper Jack.
      Breadcrumbs: Crushed crackers or almond flour for low-carb.
      Ranch Seasoning: Use homemade blend of dill, parsley, garlic, and onion powder.
      Egg: A tablespoon of mayo or Greek yogurt.

      Ingredient Spotlight

      Ranch Seasoning: This all-American favorite blends herbs like dill and parsley with garlic and onion for a zesty, creamy profile that livens up any dish.

      Cheddar Chee

      se: Sharp cheddar adds bold flavor and melt-in-your-mouth richness, making each bite deeply satisfying.

      Instructions for Making Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers Delicious Dinner

      Time to get cooking! Here’s your step-by-step guide to juicy, cheesy burger bliss:

      1. Preheat Your Equipment:
        Heat your grill or skillet to medium-high and lightly oil the surface.
      2. Combine Ingredients:
        In a large bowl, mix ground chicken, cheddar, ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until just combined.
      3. Prepare Your Cooking Vessel:
        Shape the mixture into four even patties and set on a parchment-lined plate. Chill for 15 minutes.
      4. Assemble the Dish:
        Place patties on the hot grill or skillet. Cook for about 5–6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through.
      5. Cook to Perfection:
        When almost done, add extra cheddar slices if desired. Cover briefly to melt.
      6. Finishing Touches:
        Toast the burger buns and layer with lettuce, tomato, onion, and a generous drizzle of ranch dressing.
      7. Serve and Enjoy:
        Stack the burgers, secure with a toothpick if needed, and serve hot with your favorite sides.

      ding">Texture & Flavor Secrets

      The beauty of these burgers lies in their contrast—crispy seared outside, juicy inside, creamy cheddar melt, and the zesty ranch spice all working together. The toppings add a crunchy, fresh lift to each bite, while the toasted bun gives it the structure and a warm, comforting finish.

      Cooking Tips & Tricks

      These little tweaks make a big difference:

      • Chill patties before cooking to keep shape.
      • Toast buns for added texture and flavor.
      • Don’t press down on the burgers while cooking.
      • Let them rest 2–3 minutes before serving.

      What to Avoid

      Avoid these common mistakes:

      • Overmixing the patty mix (leads to toughness).
      • Cooking on high heat too fast (outside burns, inside undercooked).
      • Skipping the seasoning (bland burgers).
      • Using wet toppings that make the bun soggy.