Looking for a mouthwatering twist on the classic burger? These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers combine juicy ground chicken with bold ranch seasoning and melty cheddar cheese for a flavor-packed meal the whole family will love. Whether grilled, pan-fried, or baked, they’re quick to make and perfect for weeknight dinners, summer BBQs, or casual gatherings.
Forget dry chicken burgers — this recipe guarantees moist, tender patties loaded with ranch-inspired flavor and cheesy goodness in every bite.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Healthier alternative to beef Ready in under 30 minutes Full of flavor – ranch + cheddar is a winning combo Perfect for meal prep Can be grilled, pan-fried, or oven-baked
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patties:
- 1 lb (450 g) ground chicken
- 1 packet (1 oz / 28 g) ranch seasoning mix
- ½ cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup breadcrumbs (plain or seasoned)
- 1 egg
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
For Serving:
- 4 burger buns (brioche or sesame buns recommended)
- Lettuce leaves
- Sliced tomatoes
- Pickles or red onion slices
- More cheddar cheese slices (optional)
- Ranch dressing or mayo for topping
Recommended Tools
- Mixing bowl
- Non-stick skillet or grill pan
- Spatula or grill tongs
- Burger press or your hands for shaping
- Meat thermometer (optional for doneness check)
Preparation Steps
Step 1: Make the Patties
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ranch seasoning, cheddar cheese, breadcrumbs, egg, mustard, and herbs (if using).
- Mix gently with your hands or a spoon until just combined — do not overmix.
- Divide into 4 equal portions and shape into patties about ¾-inch thick.
Tip: Chill patties for 10–15 minutes in the fridge to help them hold their shape during cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken Burgers
Option A: Pan-Fried
- Heat 1–2 tablespoons of oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
- Cook patties for 5–6 minutes per side, until golden brown and internal temp reaches 165°F (74°C).
Option B: Grilled
- Preheat grill to medium-high and lightly oil the grates.
- Grill burgers for 4–5 minutes per side, flipping once, until fully cooked.
Option C: Oven-Baked
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Place patties on a parchment-lined baking sheet and bake for 18–20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
Step 3: Toast the Buns (Optional but Recommended)
- While the burgers are cooking, lightly butter the buns and toast them in a skillet or on the grill until golden.
Step 4: Assemble the Burgers
- Spread ranch dressing or mayo on the bottom bun.
- Add lettuce, tomato slices, and a warm chicken patty.
- Top with more cheddar cheese or onion slices if desired.
- Cover with the top bun and serve hot.
Tips for Success
- Use freshly shredded cheese for the best melt and flavor.
- Ground chicken can be sticky — wet your hands slightly when forming patties.
- Don’t press the burgers while cooking; it releases juices and can dry them out.
- For extra ranch flavor, add a tablespoon of ranch dressing into the meat mix.
- Always check doneness — chicken must be cooked fully through.
Variations
Spicy Ranch Chicken Burgers
Add chopped jalapeños or hot sauce to the meat mixture for heat.
Garlic Ranch Burgers
Add minced garlic or garlic powder for a more savory depth.
Cheesy-Stuffed Chicken Burgers
Add a cube of cheese to the center of each patty before cooking for a gooey surprise.
Low-Carb Option
Serve wrapped in lettuce or on low-carb buns for a keto-friendly meal.
Make It Fit Your Diet
- Gluten-free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs and buns.
- Low-carb/Keto: Skip breadcrumbs and use almond flour or crushed pork rinds instead. Serve in lettuce wraps.
- Dairy-free: Use vegan cheese or omit cheese entirely.
- High-protein: Add an egg-white fried topping or serve with a side of protein-rich salad.
Storage & Reheating
Fridge:
- Store leftover patties (cooked) in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer:
- Freeze uncooked or cooked patties between parchment paper layers in a zip bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: 1–2 minutes on high.
- Oven: Reheat at 350°F for 8–10 minutes.
- Skillet: Reheat with a splash of water and lid on for juicier results.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Yes! Ground turkey works great and absorbs flavor just as well.
Can I double the batch for meal prep?
Absolutely. These freeze beautifully and can be reheated quickly.
Can I make sliders instead of full burgers?
Of course — divide the mixture into 8 small patties and reduce cook time slightly.
Conclusion
These Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are juicy, cheesy, herby, and flat-out delicious. Perfectly seasoned with ranch, studded with cheddar, and stacked on toasted buns with your favorite toppings — they’re a satisfying twist on traditional burgers. Whether you’re cooking indoors or grilling outside, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to customize and hard to resist.
Give these burgers a try tonight and bring that ranch-flavored magic to your table
