Chicken Bacon Ranch Smashburgers

Chicken Bacon Ranch Smashburgers are the culinary delight your taste buds have been waiting for! These juicy smashburgers showcase the incredible combination of tender ground chicken, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning, all complemented by luscious white cheddar cheese. Imagine sinking your teeth into a burger that’s not only packed with flavor but also has that satisfying crunch from the perfectly cooked bacon. The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or hosting a weekend gathering, these burgers are sure to impress everyone around the table.

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I stumbled upon the magic of Chicken Bacon Ranch Smashburgers during a busy week when I craved something comforting yet quick to prepare. The seductive aroma that fills your kitchen while baking the bacon is simply irresistible. It has since become a staple in my household — everyone loves the delicious blend of flavors wrapped in a soft brioche bun. If you’re looking for a fun and easy way to elevate your burger game, this recipe is everything you need. Let’s get started on your next favorite meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple & Quick: This recipe can be prepared in just about 70 minutes, perfect for a weeknight dinner.
• Irresistible Flavor: The combination of ranch seasoning and crispy bacon ensures every bite is bursting with flavor.
• Eye-Catching Appeal: These burgers are a fun take on classic sandwiches, making them a hit at parties.
• Flexible Serving: Perfect for any occasion, you can enjoy these burgers as a filling meal or a casual snack.
• Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable, you can switch out the chicken for ground turkey or beef based on your preference.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 8 slices bacon: Provides a rich, smoky flavor and a satisfying crunch, elevating the burger experience. For a healthier option, turkey bacon can be used.
• 1 pound ground chicken: The star of the show! Lean and flavorful, it cooks up beautifully and takes on the ranch seasoning nicely. You can substitute ground turkey if desired.
• 2 teaspoons ranch seasoning: This blend of herbs and spices gives the burgers their distinct taste. Feel free to use homemade ranch seasoning for a personal touch.
• 1 tablespoon avocado oil: Used for frying the patties, it has a high smoke point and adds healthy fats. Vegetable or canola oil can also work well here.
• 4 slices white cheddar cheese: Creamy and melty, it adds a delightful richness when placed atop the hot burgers.
• 2 cups shredded lettuce: Adds a nice crunch and freshness to the finished burger. Use your favorite type of lettuce, like romaine or iceberg.
• Ranch dressing, for drizzling: Enhances the ranch flavor and adds creaminess to the burger. You can opt for a lighter version if preferred.
• 4 to 8 brioche buns: Soft and slightly sweet, these buns are the perfect vehicle for all the delicious fillings. Feel free to substitute with whole wheat or gluten-free buns if needed.

How to Make Chicken Bacon Ranch Smashburgers

1. Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees F for baking the bacon.
2. Bake the Bacon: Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the bacon slices flat. Bake for 10 minutes, flip, and continue baking for another 10 to 15 minutes until crispy and golden. The aroma will be heavenly!
3. Prepare the Chicken Patties: Take the ground chicken and sprinkle it with ranch seasoning. If your ranch seasoning is unsalted, consider adding salt and pepper. Divide the chicken into 8 equal portions and roll them into balls.
4. Heat the Skillet: In a cast iron skillet, heat the avocado oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken balls in the skillet.
5. Smash the Patties: Using a glass or jar sprayed with non-stick spray, press each chicken ball down firmly into the skillet, flattening it as thin as possible. Repeat this process with 2 to 3 more balls.
6. Flip and Cook: After 2 to 3 minutes, gently flip the patty using a spatula. Press down again with the clean glass, and cook for another 2 minutes to develop a lovely crust.
7. Add Cheese: Top each patty with a slice of white cheddar cheese. Allow it to melt for 1 to 2 minutes, then remove the burgers. Repeat the cooking process with the remaining chicken.
8. Assemble the Burgers: Take your brioche bun and add some shredded lettuce to the bottom. Layer on 2 chicken patties (or just one if you prefer!), then stack on 1 to 2 slices of crispy bacon. Drizzle with ranch dressing, finish with the bun top, and there you have it!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover Chicken Bacon Ranch Smashburgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you have only the patties left, they can be frozen in an airtight bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply use the microwave or warm them in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes until heated through. Just keep in mind that while they’ll still taste delicious, the texture may change slightly after freezing; a quick toast in a skillet can help revive them!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

• Watch your bacon closely while it bakes; it can go from perfect to burnt quickly if left unattended.
• Ensure your ground chicken is cold when you make the patties; it helps them hold their shape better during cooking.
• Don’t overcrowd the skillet. Cook in batches if necessary, allowing each patty enough room to cook evenly and develop a good sear.
• Feel free to experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for a spicy kick!
• These burgers can be made ahead of time. Just cook the patties and store them in the fridge for quick assembly later.

It’s time to enjoy the incredible flavors of your Chicken Bacon Ranch Smashburgers! From the crispy bacon to the luscious ranch dressing, every bite is a celebration of deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite toppings or sides — paired with some crispy fries or a refreshing salad, these burgers will soon become a family favorite. Enjoy this delightful masterpiece with friends or family and savor every wholesome bite!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?

Absolutely! Ground turkey is a fantastic alternative and offers a similar texture. Just be mindful that it may take slightly longer to cook, so adjust your cooking time accordingly.

How do I know when the chicken patties are cooked through?

The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165 degrees F. Using a meat thermometer can help you ensure they are perfectly cooked, juicy, and safe to eat.

Can I make the ranch seasoning from scratch?

Sure! Simply mix together 1 teaspoon of dried dill, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of onion powder, and 1 teaspoon of dried parsley with a pinch of salt and pepper. This will give you a fresh and flavorful ranch seasoning to use.

How can I make these burgers gluten-free?

To make Chicken Bacon Ranch Smashburgers gluten-free, choose gluten-free brioche buns and ensure your ranch dressing has no gluten ingredients. Ground chicken naturally is gluten-free, so you’re good there!

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