Looking for a burger that’s both juicy, flavorful, and a little bit different from the usual beef patty? These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are the ultimate answer. Bursting with cheesy goodness, ranch-seasoned flavor, and tender ground chicken, they’re a lighter yet equally satisfying twist on the classic burger.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, barbecues, or meal prepping, these burgers combine comfort-food appeal with a wholesome touch — and they come together in less than 30 minutes!
Ingredients
Makes 4 burgers
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 pound (450g) ground chicken
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix (or 2 tablespoons homemade ranch mix)
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 large egg, lightly beaten
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns (toasted)
- Lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
- Red onion rings
- Pickles (optional)
- Extra ranch dressing or mayo for topping
Preparation Time
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cooking time: 12–15 minutes
- Total time: About 25 minutes
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Burger Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and form them into burger patties about 1 inch thick.
- Place patties on a plate and chill for 10 minutes (optional) to help them hold their shape during cooking.
Step 3: Cook the Burgers
- Heat a lightly oiled skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Cook each patty for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
- Toast your buns and spread a layer of ranch dressing or mayo on the bottom half.
- Add lettuce, tomato slices, and the hot chicken patty.
- Top with onions, pickles, and another drizzle of ranch, then close with the top bun.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
- Serve immediately with a side of fries, coleslaw, or a crisp garden salad.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with sweet potato fries or baked potato wedges for a satisfying meal.
- For a low-carb version, skip the bun and serve the patty on lettuce wraps.
- Great for meal prep — simply cook and freeze patties for up to 3 months.
Nutritional Highlights
| Nutrient | Per Burger (without bun) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 32 grams |
| Total Fat | 18 grams |
| Saturated Fat | 7 grams |
| Carbohydrates | 8 grams |
| Sugars | 1 gram |
| Fiber | 0.5 grams |
| Sodium | 720 milligrams |
Nutritional Notes:
- Ground chicken provides a lean protein base with lower saturated fat than beef.
- Cheddar cheese adds calcium and savory richness.
- Ranch seasoning brings bold flavor without the need for excess sauces.
- For a lighter version, use reduced-fat cheese and serve on whole-grain buns.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Burgers
- Avoid over-mixing the patty mixture; this keeps the burgers tender and juicy.
- Don’t press down on the patties while cooking — it squeezes out moisture.
- Add 1 tablespoon of mayo or Greek yogurt to the mixture for extra moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness without overcooking.
Variations to Try
- Spicy Ranch Version: Add 1 teaspoon of hot sauce or chopped jalapeños to the mixture.
- BBQ Cheddar Burgers: Swap ranch seasoning for BBQ spice mix and top with caramelized onions.
- Herb & Garlic Style: Add fresh parsley and a dash of lemon zest for brightness.
- Cheese-Stuffed Patties: Form two thinner patties, sandwich shredded cheese in between, and seal the edges before cooking.
These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a delicious twist on a backyard favorite — juicy, flavorful, and irresistibly cheesy. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or baked, they’re easy to make and guaranteed to become a regular on your dinner rotation.
Perfect for family meals, meal prep, or weekend cookouts, these burgers deliver restaurant-quality taste right from your own kitchen.