If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger that brings comfort and excitement all in one bite, you have to try this Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe. It combines tender ground chicken with sharp cheddar cheese and the irresistible zest of ranch seasoning, creating a mouthwatering patty that grills up perfectly every time. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weekend cookout or just want a delicious dinner that feels special, these burgers deliver bold, smoky, cheesy goodness that’s sure to become your new favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe plays an important role, making the patties juicy, flavorful, and beautifully seasoned. From the sharpness of cheddar to the aromatic spices and fresh herbs, these elements work together to create a burger that’s anything but ordinary.
- Ground chicken (1 ½ pounds): The lean, tender base of your burgers offering a lighter alternative to beef.
- Shredded sharp cheddar cheese (1 cup): Adds creamy richness and a satisfying sharp flavor to every bite.
- Dry ranch seasoning mix (2 tablespoons): Brings that classic ranch zing to elevate the taste profile.
- Garlic powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers a subtle, savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Onion powder (1 teaspoon): Contributes gentle sweetness and earthy notes for balance.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Offers a smoky warmth that enhances grilled goodness.
- Fine salt (½ teaspoon): Essential for seasoning and bringing out the burger’s natural flavors.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds just the right touch of heat and complexity.
- Chopped fresh chives (2 tablespoons): Injects a bright, fresh onion flavor and a pop of color.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Provides a subtle umami boost that rounds out the taste.
- Olive oil for grilling: Prevents sticking and helps achieve that perfect sear.
- Brioche or hamburger buns (6): Soft, slightly sweet buns complement the savory patties wonderfully.
- Lettuce leaves: Adds crunch and freshness to each burger stack.
- Sliced tomato: Juicy and sweet, balancing the savory elements beautifully.
- Sliced red onion: Gives a sharp bite and vibrant color.
- Optional ranch dressing for topping: For an extra creamy, tangy finish you can’t resist.
How to Make Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Ingredients
Grab a large bowl and combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, fresh chives, and Worcestershire sauce. Use your hands or a spoon to gently mix until everything is just combined—being careful not to overwork the meat, which can make the patties tough.
Step 2: Shape the Patties
Divide the mixture into six equal parts. To avoid the chicken sticking to your hands, lightly oil them before forming each ball into a patty about half an inch thick. This thickness helps the burgers cook evenly and stay juicy.
Step 3: Prepare for Grilling
Brush each patty lightly with olive oil to keep them from sticking and to promote that lovely grilled crust. Heat your grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high, so it’s hot enough to cook the burgers without drying them out.
Step 4: Cook the Patties
Place the patties on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F for perfectly cooked, safe-to-eat chicken burgers that are still moist and tender inside. Resist the urge to press down on them to keep those juices locked in.
Step 5: Toast the Buns and Assemble
If you want, toast the brioche or hamburger buns lightly on the grill for a warm, slightly crispy texture that complements the juicy patties. Then, build your burger starting with lettuce, tomato, and red onion on the bottom bun. Add the patty on top and finish with a drizzle of ranch dressing if you’re using it, before capping with the top bun.
How to Serve Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
Freshness is key! Crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and thinly sliced red onion bring texture and bright flavors that contrast perfectly with the cheesy, spicy patties. A little ranch dressing adds creaminess and ties all the flavors together — it’s the perfect finishing touch.
Side Dishes
Serve these burgers with classic sides like crispy sweet potato fries, a crunchy coleslaw, or even a fresh mixed green salad. The smoky, cheesy richness of the burgers pairs beautifully with lighter, refreshing sides that balance the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe open-faced on toasted artisan bread with extra melted cheese, or wrap them in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option. You could also offer a variety of pickles and hot sauces to let everyone customize their flavor experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have extra patties or assembled burgers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep buns separate to avoid sogginess. When ready to enjoy again, bring the patties back to room temperature before reheating.
Freezing
This Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe freezes wonderfully. Form the patties and freeze them on a sheet pan before transferring to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge before cooking.
Reheating
Reheat cooked patties gently in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes, or use a skillet over medium heat to warm evenly without drying out. Avoid microwaving to keep the texture nice and juicy.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and will give you a similarly lean and tasty burger. Just watch the cooking time as turkey can cook a bit faster depending on the fat content.
Is the ranch seasoning mix necessary?
While the ranch seasoning mix is a key flavor booster in this recipe, you can substitute it with a homemade blend of dried herbs like dill, parsley, garlic powder, and onion powder if you prefer a fresh-made alternative.
Can I make these burgers spicy?
Yes! For a spicy kick, add ½ teaspoon of cayenne pepper to the mix or swap out sharp cheddar for pepper jack cheese. Both add heat without overpowering the other flavors.
How do I prevent chicken burgers from falling apart on the grill?
Gently mix your ingredients and avoid overworking the meat. Lightly oil your hands when shaping patties, and handle them with care when flipping. Using sharp cheddar cheese helps bind the patties together nicely too.
Are these burgers gluten-free?
The patties themselves are gluten-free, but be sure to choose gluten-free buns or serve the burgers wrapped in lettuce to keep the entire meal gluten-free.
Final Thoughts
If you’re on the hunt for a delicious, easy-to-make burger that bursts with flavor and keeps you coming back for more, this Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe is pure magic. It’s perfect for grilling, weeknight dinners, or whenever you want something satisfying and special. Try it out and get ready to wow your taste buds and everyone at your table!
Print
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 6 burgers
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy, flavorful, and packed with shredded sharp cheddar, ranch seasoning, and fresh chives. Perfectly grilled to juicy perfection and topped with crisp lettuce, tomato, and onion, they make a delicious and easy main course for any cookout or weeknight dinner. You can enjoy them on classic brioche buns or opt for gluten-free buns to suit dietary needs.
Ingredients
Chicken Burger Patties
- 1 ½ pounds ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons dry ranch seasoning mix
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon fine salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Olive oil for grilling
Burger Assembly
- 6 brioche or hamburger buns
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomato
- Sliced red onion
- Optional ranch dressing for topping
Instructions
- Make the burger mixture: In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, dry ranch seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, chopped chives, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix gently just until all ingredients are incorporated to avoid toughening the meat.
- Form the patties: Divide the mixture into six equal portions and shape each into a patty about ½ inch thick. Lightly oil your hands with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Prepare for grilling: Brush each patty lightly with olive oil. Preheat a grill or stovetop grill pan to medium-high heat to ensure a good sear.
- Cook the patties: Place the patties on the grill and cook for 5 to 6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, indicating they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
- Toast the buns: Optionally, toast the brioche or hamburger buns on the grill until lightly browned and warm.
- Assemble the burgers: On the bottom bun, layer lettuce leaves, sliced tomato, and sliced red onion. Place a grilled chicken patty on top, then finish with ranch dressing if desired. Top with the bun and serve warm.
Notes
- Ground chicken can be sticky; lightly oil your hands to help shape the patties.
- For a spicier kick, add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or substitute pepper jack cheese for cheddar.
- These burgers also cook well in an air fryer at 375°F for 12 to 14 minutes, flipping halfway for even cooking.
- Use gluten-free buns to make this recipe gluten-free.
