Juicy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Juicy Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers combine tender ground chicken with sharp cheddar cheese and tangy ranch seasoning to create flavorful, moist burgers perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking. Easy to make and highly customizable, these burgers offer a bold taste experience ideal for family meals, casual dinners, or barbecues.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 burgers 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling / Pan-frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground chicken
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 4 to 6 burger buns (whole wheat or regular)
Optional Toppings
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Pickles
- Extra ranch dressing or mayo
- Jalapeños or hot sauce (for spicy variation)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro (for herb variation)
- Avocado slices (for dairy-free option)
- Grilled zucchini or roasted red peppers
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, ranch seasoning, chopped green onions, garlic powder, panko breadcrumbs, egg, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are just blended, being careful not to over-mix to keep the patties tender.
- Incorporate the Cheddar Cheese: Fold shredded sharp cheddar cheese evenly into the mixture, ensuring each patty will have a good amount of melty cheese inside. Save a little cheese to sprinkle on top before cooking if desired.
- Shape the Patties: Divide the mixture into 4 to 6 equal portions based on your preferred burger size. Gently form each into a thick, round patty and press slightly to create an indentation in the center to prevent puffing during cooking.
- Cook the Burgers: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it to prevent sticking. Cook the patties for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Optionally, add a slice of cheddar cheese on top during the last minute to melt perfectly.
- Assemble and Serve: Lightly toast burger buns and spread your favorite sauce such as ranch or mayo. Layer with the cooked patties along with lettuce, tomato, pickles, or any preferred toppings. Serve immediately for best juiciness and flavor.
Notes
- Keep It Cold: Chill the chicken mixture before shaping patties to prevent them from falling apart during cooking.
- Don’t Overwork the Meat: Gently combine ingredients to maintain burger tenderness.
- Indent the Patties: Make a small dimple in the center of each patty to help them cook evenly without puffing up.
- Use a Thermometer: Ensure the burgers are thoroughly cooked yet juicy by checking internal temperature.
- Let Rest Before Serving: Allow burgers to rest a few minutes after cooking to lock in juices.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger (without bun and toppings)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 480 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 10 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 30 g
- Cholesterol: 110 mg
Keywords: chicken burger, cheddar cheese burger, ranch seasoning, juicy chicken burger, homemade burgers, easy chicken burger recipe