Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers deliver a perfect blend of juicy, crispy chicken patties topped with sharp cheddar cheese and creamy ranch dressing. Easy to prepare and packed with bold, balanced flavors, these burgers are ideal for weeknight dinners or backyard cookouts. They offer a satisfying combination of textures and flavors that appeal to all ages and can be customized for various dietary preferences.
- Author: Kaeli
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 6 burgers 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Pan-Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free (with substitutions)
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground chicken
- 1 cup bread crumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 large egg
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 4 to 6 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- 4 to 6 burger buns (gluten-free buns optional)
Toppings (Optional)
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Ranch dressing (or dairy-free ranch alternative)
- Optional: pickles, crispy bacon, red onions
Optional Variations
- Diced jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicy kick
- Finely chopped spinach or grated zucchini for extra nutrition
- Different cheeses: pepper jack, mozzarella, smoked gouda
- Dairy-free cheese and ranch alternatives for dairy-free version
- Prepare the Chicken Mixture: In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, bread crumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix gently but thoroughly until evenly combined without making the mixture dense.
- Form the Patties: Shape the mixture into 4 to 6 evenly sized patties. Press a slight indentation in the center of each patty to ensure even cooking and prevent puffing.
- Cook the Patties: Heat a skillet over medium heat with a small amount of oil. Cook the patties for 5 to 6 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked through.
- Add Cheddar Cheese: During the final minute of cooking, place a slice of sharp cheddar cheese on each patty to melt on top.
- Assemble the Burgers: Lightly toast the burger buns. Spread ranch dressing on the bottom bun, add the cheesy chicken patty, then top with fresh lettuce, tomato, or desired toppings. Close with the top bun and serve.
Notes
- Use freshly ground chicken for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Do not overmix the chicken mixture to keep patties tender.
- Indent patties to prevent bubbling and ensure even cooking.
- Choose sharp cheddar cheese for bold flavor and perfect melting.
- Serve burgers immediately for optimal texture and juiciness.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 430
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 610mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: cheddar ranch chicken burgers, chicken burgers, crispy chicken patty, cheesy chicken burger, ranch dressing burger, gluten free chicken burger