Why I love it
When you’re craving a crispy chicken burger with a juicy interior and a perfectly golden crust, the Crispy Rancher Burger is your go to. This is the kind of burger that takes the classic crispy chicken patty and gives it a satisfying twist with an explosion of textures and flavors. It’s got crunch, juiciness, and just the right amount of spice to keep things exciting. Let me take you through why I love this burger and how you can make it yourself.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Introducing the Crispy Rancher Burger – a perfect fusion of crunch, flavor, and creamy indulgence! This burger starts with a juicy, seasoned chicken patty coated in light, crispy panko breadcrumbs for that satisfying crunch in every bite. Ground chicken, enhanced by the subtle heat of cayenne and the tang of buttermilk, makes for a patty that's tender on the inside yet golden and crispy on the outside. Topped with melted cheddar cheese, fresh lettuce, ripe tomato, and tangy pickles, it’s a classic combination elevated by the cool, creamy homemade ranch sauce. All of this comes together on a toasted brioche bun, bringing a hint of sweetness that perfectly balances the savory and spicy flavors. Ideal for anyone who loves a blend of textures and bold flavors, this Crispy Rancher Burger is sure to be a hit at any gathering or family meal.Recipe
Crispy Rancher Burger
The Crispy Rancher Burger combines a crunchy, flavorful chicken patty with classic toppings and a creamy homemade ranch sauce. With its golden-brown coating and the juiciness of ground chicken thigh meat, this burger is a perfect balance of texture and flavor. A slice of sharp cheddar melts over the patty, and fresh toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles provide that refreshing bite. All of this is wrapped in a toasted brioche bun that holds everything together without overpowering the flavors.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Patty
- 500g Ground chicken The star of the burger. I prefer ground chicken thigh because it stays juicier and more flavorful. Thigh meat also holds up better under high heat.
- 1 cup Panko breadcrumbs Panko breadcrumbs are lighter and airier, which helps achieve a crispier coating.
- ½ cup Buttermilk Buttermilk helps tenderize the chicken and provides a slight tang that enhances the flavor of the meat.
- 1 Egg Acts as a binder to help the patty hold its shape.
- 1 tbsp Garlic powder Adds depth and a savory kick.
- 1 tbsp Onion powder Complements the garlic and boosts the overall flavor.
- 1 tbsp Cayenne pepper For a subtle heat that doesn’t overpower.
- Salt and pepper to taste Proper seasoning is key to making the flavors pop.
For the Toppings
- 4 slices Cheddar cheese Melty cheese adds a creamy layer and a sharp contrast to the chicken’s crispiness.
- 4 leaves Fresh lettuce Adds a refreshing crunch.
- 4 slices Tomato Juicy tomato slices add a touch of sweetness.
- Sliced pickles Pickles bring a nice, tangy contrast.
- 4 Brioche buns The perfect choice for holding everything together without falling apart. Their slight sweetness complements the savory flavors.
For the Ranch Sauce
- ½ cup Mayo A creamy base for the sauce.
- ¼ cup Sour cream Adds tanginess to balance out the mayo.
- 1 tbsp Chopped fresh dill Brings a fresh, herbal note.
- 1 tbsp Garlic powder Enhances the savory depth of the sauce.
- Salt and pepper to taste For seasoning.
Instructions
Prepare the Chicken Patty Mix
- In a large bowl, combine the ground chicken, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix everything together until evenly combined.
- Add the egg and buttermilk, mixing gently to create a cohesive patty mixture.
- Shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties, about ¾ inch thick. Set them aside on a plate.
Bread and Cook the Patties
- Preheat a skillet over medium heat and add a thin layer of vegetable oil for frying.
- Dip each chicken patty into a shallow bowl of panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to coat evenly on all sides.
- Place the patties in the skillet and cook for about 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Add a slice of cheddar cheese to each patty during the last minute of cooking, allowing it to melt.
Make the Ranch Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the mayo, sour cream, fresh dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Keep the sauce chilled until ready to use.
Toast the Buns
- While the patties are cooking, toast the brioche buns on a grill or in a clean skillet until they’re golden and slightly crisp. This prevents the buns from getting soggy when assembled.
Assemble the Burger
- Spread a generous layer of ranch sauce on the bottom bun.
- Place the cheesy chicken patty on top, followed by lettuce, tomato slices, and a few sliced pickles.
- Top with the upper bun, and your Crispy Rancher Burger is ready to serve.
Notes
For an equally satisfying burger that offers a different experience, check out our Golden Crunch Chicken Burger—packed with all the classic flavors and extra crunch for those who crave a more traditional experience.
Which Cuisine Does the Crispy Rancher Burger Belong To?
The Crispy Rancher Burger is a fusion of classic American cuisine and Southwestern influences. The addition of smoked paprika, buttermilk, and ranch dressing nods to Southwestern flavors while keeping the traditional appeal of an American burger.Nutrition
Serving: 1ServingCalories: 520kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 35gFat: 28g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a burger that’s comforting, satisfying, and bursting with flavor, the Crispy Rancher Burger delivers on all fronts. It takes the classic crispy chicken burger and adds a fresh twist with its homemade ranch sauce and a smoky, spicy kick from the seasoning. This burger is perfect for gatherings, casual dinners, or whenever you want a reliable, tasty meal that pleases everyone at the table. Give this recipe a try, and discover why the Crispy Rancher Burger is a new favorite in the world of gourmet chicken burgers.Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use ground chicken breast instead of ground chicken thigh?
Answer: Yes, you can use ground chicken breast, but keep in mind that it may result in a slightly drier patty since breast meat is leaner than thigh meat. Thighs are preferred for their juiciness and richer flavor. If you do use breast meat, consider adding a teaspoon of olive oil to the mixture to help retain moisture.
2. What can I use as a substitute for buttermilk?
Answer: If you don’t have buttermilk, you can make a substitute by mixing ½ cup of regular milk with ½ tablespoon of white vinegar or lemon juice. Let it sit for 5 minutes before using it in the recipe. This will mimic the tangy, tenderizing effect of buttermilk.
3. Can I bake the chicken patties instead of frying them?
Answer: Yes, you can bake the patties for a healthier option. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the breaded patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray or brush them with oil and bake for about 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. How can I make the ranch sauce lighter?
Answer: To make the ranch sauce lighter, you can replace the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or use a mixture of half mayo and half Greek yogurt. This will reduce the calorie content while still providing a creamy texture. Adjust the seasoning if needed, as Greek yogurt has a slightly tangier taste.
5. Can I prepare the patties and sauce ahead of time?
Answer: Absolutely! You can shape the patties and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. The ranch sauce can also be made a day in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This makes assembly quick and easy when you're ready to serve the burgers.
