Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a delightful twist on the classic burger, combining the rich flavors of cheddar cheese and ranch seasoning into a juicy chicken patty. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a weekend BBQ, offering a tasty and satisfying meal for everyone.
INGREDIENTS
- Ground Chicken: 2 lbs of ground chicken, the base of your patties, ensuring they are juicy and tender.
- Egg: 1 egg to help bind the ingredients together.
- Plain Bread Crumbs: 1/2 cup to add texture and hold the patties together.
- Ranch Seasoning Mix: 1 oz for that classic ranch flavor throughout the patties.
- Garlic Cloves: 3 cloves, smashed and minced to add a burst of savory flavor.
- Onion: 1/2 cup finely diced onion to add sweetness and depth to the patties.
- Cheddar Cheese: 1/2 cup finely shredded cheddar cheese, melted within the patties for a rich, cheesy bite.
INSTRUCTIONS
- Step 1:
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground chicken, egg, bread crumbs, ranch seasoning, minced garlic, diced onion, and shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Step 2:
- Prepare a baking sheet or large cutting board by covering it with parchment paper. Shape the chicken mixture into patties, making sure they are uniform in size so they cook evenly. Place the patties on the prepared surface.
- Step 3:
- Preheat a large cooking pan over medium heat and add a drizzle of oil. Once heated, cook the patties for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your patties.
- Step 4:
- Once the patties are cooked, prepare your buns and other toppings. Consider toasting the buns for an extra layer of flavor and texture. Build your burger with the cooked patties, bacon, lettuce, tomato, and a generous drizzle of ranch dressing. Add any other veggies you like to customize your burger.
Serving and Storage Tips
- Serve the burgers immediately while they are hot and juicy.
- Consider pairing with a side of crispy fries or a fresh salad.
- If you have leftovers, store the patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat the patties in a skillet or in the oven to maintain their juiciness.
Helpful Notes
- For a spicier version, add some diced jalapeños to the chicken mixture.
- Substitute the cheddar cheese with pepper jack for a bit of a kick.
- If you're short on time, use store-bought ranch seasoning, but homemade is always best!
- You can also grill these patties for a smoky flavor.
Tips from well-known chefs
- Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests using fresh herbs in your patties for an extra burst of flavor.
- Chef Bobby Flay recommends mixing in a little bit of mayonnaise with the ground chicken to keep the patties moist.
- Chef Ina Garten advises letting the patties rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the juices to redistribute.