Description
These juicy cheddar ranch chicken burgers are an easy 20-minute weeknight dinner that stays moist and flavorful thanks to buttermilk and sharp cheddar cheese. Perfect for grilling or pan-frying, they offer a lighter alternative to beef burgers without sacrificing taste.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground chicken (mix of thigh and breast recommended)
- 1/2 cup sharp cheddar cheese, cubed
- 2 tbsp ranch seasoning mix
- 2 tbsp buttermilk
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 large egg
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 burger buns (brioche or potato)
- Mayonnaise or ranch dressing for serving
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter for cooking
Instructions
- Cut the sharp cheddar cheese into small cubes and set aside.
- In a large bowl, whisk together the buttermilk, egg, garlic powder, onion powder, and ranch seasoning.
- Add the ground chicken to the bowl and gently mix with your hands until just combined. Do not overmix.
- Divide the mixture into four equal portions and form into patties about 3/4-inch thick, making a slight indentation in the center.
- Place a cube of cheddar in the center of each patty and fold the edges of the chicken over to enclose the cheese, pressing lightly to seal.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil or butter.
- Cook the patties for 5-6 minutes on the first side without moving them to develop a crust.
- Flip the burgers and cook for another 4-5 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Toast the burger buns in the same pan or a toaster.
- Assemble the burgers by spreading mayo or ranch on the buns and placing the hot patty on the bottom bun.
Notes
For best results, keep the cheese cold until cooking to prevent it from melting too early. If the mixture is sticky, wet your hands before shaping. Do not press down on the burgers while cooking to retain juices. Let the burgers rest for 2-3 minutes after cooking. Chicken must reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger with bun
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 1
- Sodium: 450
- Fat: 20
- Saturated Fat: 8
- Carbohydrates: 2
- Protein: 30
Keywords: chicken burgers, cheddar ranch, easy dinner, weeknight meals, ground chicken recipes, juicy chicken burgers, keto friendly, gluten free option