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!