Description
Juicy, high-protein chicken burgers stuffed with sharp cheddar cheese and seasoned with ranch flavor. These burgers are quick to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and offer a satisfying balance of comfort food taste and healthy nutrition.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1.5 lbs ground chicken breast
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 large egg
- 0.5 cup plain dried breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp milk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp cooking oil (olive or avocado)
Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground chicken, ranch seasoning, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix gently with hands or a fork; do not overmix.
- Add the egg, milk, and breadcrumbs to the meat mixture. Mix until just combined. The mixture should be moist but not soupy.
- Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Roll into balls and flatten into 1-inch thick patties. Make a small indentation in the center of each patty with your thumb.
- Place about 2-3 tablespoons of shredded cheddar cheese in the center of each patty. Fold the edges of the meat up and over the cheese, sealing it inside. Press gently to smooth out cracks.
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add burgers and cook for 5-6 minutes on the first side until golden brown.
- Flip burgers carefully and cook for another 5-6 minutes on the other side. Ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Remove burgers from the pan and let them rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Notes
Keep hands cold while shaping patties to prevent fat from melting. Do not press down on burgers while cooking to retain juices. For air fryer method, cook at 375°F for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway. For oven method, bake at 400°F for 15-18 minutes. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze raw patties for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 12 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 375
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 650
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 12
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 30
Keywords: chicken burgers, ranch chicken, cheddar cheese, high protein, healthy dinner, quick meals, meal prep, ground chicken recipes