Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers: Juicy, Flavorful & Easy

Get ready to transform your burger night with these incredibly juicy and flavorful Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers! These aren’t just any chicken burgers; they’re packed with savory ranch seasoning, aromatic garlic and onion, and pockets of melty cheddar cheese, making every bite a delight. Easy to prepare and perfectly grilled or pan-cooked, they’re a healthier alternative to traditional beef burgers without sacrificing an ounce of flavor.

Why I Love This Recipe

These Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers are an absolute favorite in my kitchen! What I love most is how they take lean ground chicken and infuse it with so much flavor that you’d swear it was more indulgent. The ranch seasoning mix is a genius shortcut, providing a savory, herby punch, while the finely shredded cheddar cheese melts beautifully within the patty, keeping it moist and adding a gooey surprise. They’re quick to mix, easy to shape, and cook up perfectly every time, making them ideal for a weeknight dinner or a casual backyard BBQ. Plus, they’re wonderfully versatile for topping!


Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to create these incredibly flavorful chicken burgers:

Chicken Burger Patties:

  • 2 lbs ground chicken
  • egg
  • 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs
  • 1 oz ranch seasoning mix (typically one standard packet)
  • garlic cloves, smashed and minced
  • 1/2 cup finely diced onion
  • 1/2 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese

Swaps and Notes

  • Ground Chicken: Use ground chicken breast or a mix of breast and thigh for the best flavor and moisture. Ground turkey can also be used.
  • Bread Crumbs: Plain bread crumbs act as a binder and help keep the patties moist. Panko bread crumbs can also be used for a slightly lighter texture. For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free bread crumbs.
  • Ranch Seasoning Mix: A standard dry ranch seasoning packet is perfect for convenience and flavor. You can also make your own blend from dried dill, chives, parsley, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  • Garlic & Onion: Freshly minced garlic and finely diced onion add essential aromatics and moisture.
  • Cheddar Cheese: Finely shredded cheddar cheese melts well within the patties. Other good melting cheeses like Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or even a Mexican blend would also work.
  • Optional Spice: A tiny pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle kick if you like heat.

Instructions

Let’s get these juicy Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers cooking!

  1. Prepare the Burger Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, 1 egg, 1/2 cup plain bread crumbs, 1 oz ranch seasoning mix, 3 smashed and minced garlic cloves, 1/2 cup finely diced onion, and 1/2 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese. Using your hands, mix all the ingredients together until they are just well combined. Take care to avoid overmixing, as it can result in tough, dense patties. Mix just until everything is incorporated.
  2. Form the Patties: Divide the mixture into equal portions. This recipe should make about 6-8 patties, depending on your preferred size. Shape each portion into a patty, about 3/4-inch thick. You can make a slight indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb; this helps them cook evenly and prevents them from puffing up too much in the middle.
  3. Cook the Patties: Preheat a grill or a large skillet (cast iron or nonstick works well) over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or skillet to prevent sticking. Place the chicken patties on the hot cooking surface. Cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown on the outside and fully cooked through. To ensure safety, use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C). The patties should be juicy on the inside.
  4. Serve the Burgers: While the patties are cooking (or just before the final few minutes of cooking), toast your favorite burger buns. You can do this on the grill grates or in the same skillet for a minute or two until they are lightly browned and warm. Place each cooked chicken patty on a toasted bun. Add your favorite burger toppings, such as crisp lettuce, fresh tomato slices, tangy pickles, and additional shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
  5. Assemble & Enjoy: Spread a generous dollop of ranch dressing or mayonnaise on the top bun if desired, then assemble the burgers. Serve the Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers hot with your favorite sides, such as crispy fries, creamy coleslaw, or a fresh green salad.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t Overmix: This is crucial for tender chicken burgers! Mix the ingredients just until combined; overmixing will make the patties dense and rubbery.
  • Finely Dice Veggies: Ensure the onion and garlic are finely diced so they blend seamlessly into the patties and cook through evenly.
  • Make an Indentation: Pressing a small dimple in the center of each patty prevents it from bulging in the middle during cooking.
  • Cook to Temperature: Always use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken burgers reach a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
  • Rest Patties (Optional): After cooking, let the patties rest for 2-3 minutes before serving. This helps retain juices.
  • Oil the Grill/Pan: Even with lean ground chicken, lightly oiling the cooking surface prevents sticking.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

These Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers are a complete and satisfying meal, but they pair wonderfully with classic burger sides:

  • Crispy French Fries or Sweet Potato Fries: The ultimate burger companion.
  • Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw provides a refreshing crunch.
  • Side Salad: A light green salad with a simple vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast.
  • Corn on the Cob: A sweet and seasonal side.
  • For other incredibly flavorful chicken dishes that are easy to make, consider our Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole or our Sheet Pan Quesadillas for another family-friendly meal.

Storage and Leftover Tips

Cooked chicken burgers make great leftovers!

  • Refrigeration (Cooked Patties): Store cooked and cooled chicken patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
  • Refrigeration (Uncooked Patties): Uncooked patties can be prepared up to 24 hours in advance and stored covered in the refrigerator.
  • Freezing (Uncooked Patties): Form patties, place them on a parchment-lined baking sheet, and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container, separating with parchment paper. Freeze for up to 3 months. Cook from frozen, adding about 5-10 minutes to the cooking time.
  • Reheating (Cooked Patties): Reheat cooked patties in a skillet over medium heat, in a toaster oven, or in the air fryer until warmed through. Microwaving can be used but may result in a slightly tougher texture.

More Recipes You Will Love

If you loved the savory, cheesy, and easy nature of these chicken burgers, you’ll definitely want to explore some of our other fantastic chicken-centric recipes:


Final Thoughts

These Ranch Cheddar Chicken Burgers are a testament to how simple ingredients can create an incredibly flavorful and satisfying meal. They’re juicy, packed with delicious ranch and cheese, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend grill-out. Give them a try and discover your new favorite way to enjoy chicken burgers!

What’s your ultimate burger topping combination? Share your ideas in the comments below! And for more amazing, easy-to-follow recipes that bring joy to your kitchen, be sure to visit Chefmaniac.com. Happy grilling!