If you’re craving a burger that’s bursting with flavor and a touch of smoky sweetness, this BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe is exactly what you need. Juicy ground chicken gets mixed with crispy fried onions, tangy BBQ sauce, zesty ranch seasoning, melty cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon, creating a patty that’s downright irresistible. Whether you’re firing up the grill on a sunny afternoon or making a comforting dinner at home, these burgers bring together simple ingredients in a way that’s sure to impress everyone around the table.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe lies in how straightforward yet carefully chosen the ingredients are. Each one adds a unique texture or layer of flavor—from the savory crispiness of fried onions to the creamy sharpness of cheddar cheese—making every bite a delight.
- 1 lb ground chicken: The lean, tender base that lets all other flavors shine without overpowering them.
- ½ cup french fried onions: Adds a crispy, sweet crunch that elevates the burger’s texture beautifully.
- 2 Tbsp BBQ sauce: Brings smoky sweetness that keeps every bite juicy and exciting.
- 2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix: Infuses the patties with a tangy and herbaceous kick, making the flavor profile uniquely tasty.
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into the mixture for a creamy, savory surprise throughout the burger.
- ⅓ cup cooked chopped bacon: Adds smoky saltiness and an addictive crunch you’ll love in every bite.
How to Make BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe
Step 1: Mix the Patty Ingredients
Start by combining ground chicken with the french fried onions, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing mix, cheddar cheese, and cooked chopped bacon. This melding of ingredients creates a wonderful balance of moisture, flavor, and texture, ensuring that each patty is packed with savory goodness.
Step 2: Shape Your Patties
With gentle hands, form the mixture into three or four evenly sized patties. Avoid pressing too hard so they stay tender and juicy during cooking. Perfectly shaped patties are the foundation of any great burger, especially with ground chicken which can sometimes be delicate.
Step 3: Grill to Perfection
Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, then cook the chicken patties for 4 to 5 minutes on each side. It’s important to cook them thoroughly until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF. This ensures they’re safe and deliciously juicy without drying out—a key step to master with BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe.
How to Serve BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe
Garnishes
The best part about these BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe is how well they take garnishes. Crisp lettuce, ripe tomato slices, and fresh red onion rings add brightness and crunch. Consider adding pickles for tang or a dollop of extra BBQ sauce or ranch dressing for creamy indulgence.
Side Dishes
Pair your burgers with classic sides like crispy French fries or crunchy coleslaw to complement that smoky, cheesy flavor. Grilled corn on the cob or a fresh mixed green salad also provide refreshing balance to the rich, savory patties.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve these BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe on toasted brioche buns or even in lettuce wraps for a lighter option. You can also add slices of avocado or a fried egg on top to turn your burger into a gourmet masterpiece that wows your family or guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any cooked patties left over, cool them to room temperature then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keeping them well sealed helps preserve their juicy goodness and prevents any kitchen odors from sneaking in.
Freezing
These patties freeze beautifully. Form the raw patties, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months, and you’ll have a quick meal ready whenever the craving for your BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe hits.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy your stored burgers, reheat gently on a grill pan or in the oven at 350ºF until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the crisp exterior and avoid drying out the chicken.
FAQs
Can I use turkey instead of chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well as a substitute, offering a similar mild flavor and lean protein. Just be sure to monitor cooking time as turkey can vary in moisture.
What can I use if I don’t have French fried onions?
If you don’t have French fried onions, finely chopped raw onions sautéed until golden can be a great alternative. They’ll add a bit of sweetness and texture, though the crisp crunch will be less pronounced.
Is it necessary to use cooked bacon in the patties?
Yes, using cooked bacon adds that signature smoky flavor and satisfying crunch. Raw bacon would not cook properly inside the patties, so it’s best to pre-cook and chop it before mixing.
How can I tell when the chicken burgers are fully cooked?
The safest way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165ºF to ensure they’re cooked through but still juicy and tender.
Can these burgers be made gluten-free?
They can, as long as you verify that the French fried onions and ranch dressing mix are gluten-free. Many brands offer gluten-friendly versions, so a little label reading is all it takes.
Final Thoughts
These BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe are a true crowd-pleaser with their perfect blend of smoky, cheesy, and savory flavors. Once you try them, they’ll become a fast favorite for backyard cookouts, busy weeknights, or any time you want a satisfying, homemade burger that’s a little bit special. Go ahead and give this recipe a whirl—you won’t regret it!
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BBQ Chicken Burgers Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 13 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Description
These BBQ Chicken Burgers are a flavorful twist on a classic favorite, combining ground chicken with crispy fried onions, smoky bacon, tangy BBQ sauce, ranch seasoning, and melted cheddar cheese. Grilled to perfection, they deliver juicy, savory patties perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 1 lb ground chicken
- ½ cup french fried onions
- 2 Tbsp BBQ sauce
- 2 Tbsp ranch dressing mix
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- â…“ cup cooked chopped bacon
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, thoroughly combine the ground chicken, french fried onions, BBQ sauce, ranch dressing mix, shredded cheddar cheese, and cooked chopped bacon to create a uniform mixture.
- Form Patties: Gently shape the chicken mixture into 3 or 4 evenly sized patties, being careful not to overwork the meat to keep them tender.
- Cook Patties: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium heat. Place the chicken patties onto the grill and cook for 4 to 5 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165ºF, ensuring they are fully cooked and juicy.
Notes
- Make sure the internal temperature of the chicken patties reaches 165ºF to ensure they are safe to eat.
- You can substitute ranch dressing mix with your favorite herbs and spices for a different flavor profile.
- Serve on toasted buns with your favorite burger toppings like lettuce, tomato, and pickles for an enhanced burger experience.
- Cooking time may vary slightly depending on grill heat and patty thickness.
