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Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Welcome to SousVideRecipe! I’m Jasmine, a home cook who fell in love with sous vide the moment I realized it could turn everyday meals into restaurant-quality dishes with perfect consistency. My goal is to make sous vide cooking approachable and fun for real home kitchens — no complicated steps, just flavorful, reliable recipes anyone can master. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, I’m here to inspire you to enjoy cooking and create unforgettable meals one perfectly cooked bite at a time.
Have you ever found yourself searching for that perfect burger recipe that combines savory flavors with a bit of creaminess? The Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burger captures everything you want in a comforting yet dynamic dish. The combination of ground chicken and ranch seasoning elevates it to new heights. Cheddar cheese adds that luscious, melty goodness that instantly enhances the flavor.
Each bite gives a satisfying crunch alongside the juicy chicken flavor. These easy-to-make burgers are a fantastic solution for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that balances simple preparation with an explosion of flavor.
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Fundamentals
When preparing Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers, understanding the key elements makes all the difference. Ground chicken is a lovely canvas for flavor, allowing seasonings like ranch mix to shine brightly. This dish provides a great way to infuse moisture while still maintaining that satisfying burger texture.
When grilling or skillet-cooking, knowing the right temperature and cook time is essential. These patties should reach an internal temperature of 165°F for safety, but keeping them juicy is equally important. You’ll want to check them frequently to achieve that perfect golden-brown crust while ensuring they remain juicy inside.
Preparation/setup
Before getting started, assemble your ingredients. Gather 1 pound of ground chicken, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, 1 packet of ranch seasoning mix, 1/2 cup of breadcrumbs, 1 large egg, 1/2 tsp garlic powder, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. You will also need four burger buns and optional toppings like lettuce, tomato, pickles, and extra cheese for customization.
Prepare your grill or skillet by preheating it with a light oil coating. This crucial step prevents sticking and ensures your burgers cook evenly. Take a moment to create a clean cooking space. Preparing your environment will reduce stress and allow you to focus fully on making these delicious burgers.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, extra cheese, ranch dressing
Ensure that all ingredients are fresh. High-quality ingredients always yield better results. Using fresh ground chicken not only enhances flavor but also contributes to the texture of your patties.
Directions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties without compressing them too tightly.
- Preheat a lightly oiled grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for about 5–6 minutes per side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optionally, toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Assemble the burgers with your choice of optional toppings and serve.
Tips for Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Technique
Using ground chicken requires some technique to ensure that your burgers remain flavorful and moist. The key is to mix the ingredients until just combined, avoiding overmixing. Overmixing can lead to denser patties that lack tenderness.
To enhance the smoky flavor, try grilling the burgers instead of pan-frying. Grilling not only adds a delicious char but also allows excess fat to drip away, keeping your burgers light.
Tips/tricks
A few extra tips can significantly improve your Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers. First, refrigerate the patties for about 15-30 minutes before cooking. This helps them hold their shape better while also improving the flavors.
For extra flavor, consider adding chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives to the mixture. For an added kick, a splash of hot sauce can punctuate the dish beautifully. Trying different toppings like avocado, jalapenos, or even a slice of your favorite non-dairy cheese can customize each burger to your preference.
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers: Perfecting Results
Perfecting results
Once you grasp the basics of making Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers, perfecting your technique becomes the next step. An accurate kitchen thermometer ensures your patties reach the right temperature for safety.
Another aspect to consider is the cooking time. If you find that the outside is browning too quickly while the inside remains undercooked, lower your heat. Conversely, if they lose moisture too quickly, staying at a lower heat and using a lid can help you maintain that juicy consistency.
Troubleshooting/variations
If you experience issues such as dry patties, check your mixing technique. Ensure you’re not overworking the meat, which can lead to dryness. If possible, incorporate a bit more moisture, such as adding 1-2 tablespoons of plain yogurt or sour cream to the mixture.
You can also vary the cheese if you wish. Try pepper jack for a spicy kick or mozzarella for a milder flavor. Experimenting with different types of cheese can keep this recipe fresh and exciting, tailoring it to your taste buds.
Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers: Serving and Storage
Serving/presentation
Presenting your Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers creatively can impress your family and guests. Use colorful plates and include a side of fresh vegetables or homemade fries for a delightful plate. Layering the toppings neatly on the burger can enhance both appearance and flavor, inviting your diners to dig in with enthusiasm.
Consider arranging a burger topping station where everyone can customize their burgers. This fun approach makes your meal interactive and encourages creativity with toppings.
Pairings/storage
Each bite of these burgers pairs well with a variety of sides like sweet potato fries, coleslaw, or even a fresh garden salad. For additional zest, consider serving ranch dressing or a tangy dipping sauce on the side.
For storage, cool any leftovers quickly and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers can last up to three days. Reheat them in a skillet over low heat to maintain their juicy texture.
Conclusion
With these Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers, you create a dish that embodies flavor and simplicity. The balance between juicy chicken and the creamy ranch flavors makes for a satisfying meal. Enjoy experimenting with variations and toppings, ensuring that every experience remains unique. With this easy recipe, you can whip up quality burgers that impress anyone around your dinner table.
PrintCheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers
Savory Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers made with ground chicken, cheddar cheese, and ranch seasoning for a juicy and flavorful meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 27 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Paleo
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground chicken
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 large egg
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 4 burger buns
- Optional toppings: lettuce, tomato, pickles, extra cheese, ranch dressing
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch seasoning, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic powder, and black pepper. Mix until just combined.
- Form the mixture into four equal-sized patties without compressing them too tightly.
- Preheat a lightly oiled grill or skillet over medium heat.
- Cook the patties for about 5–6 minutes per side, checking that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Optionally, toast the burger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
- Assemble the burgers with your choice of optional toppings and serve.
Notes
For best results, refrigerate patties for 15-30 minutes before cooking to help them hold their shape. Experiment with different toppings and cheese types.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burger
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 80mg