If you’re craving a juicy, flavorful burger that fits perfectly into your low-carb lifestyle, you are going to absolutely adore this Keto Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with Creamy BBQ Sauce Recipe. It takes the humble chicken burger to a whole new level with sharp cheddar cheese, smoky bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning all packed into tender chicken patties. Then, to seal the deal, a luscious creamy BBQ sauce adds an indulgent, silky touch that makes every bite pure bliss. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or craving a satisfying dinner, this keto-friendly delight hits every note you want from a burger without any guilt.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Keto Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with Creamy BBQ Sauce Recipe is how straightforward and approachable the ingredients are, yet each one plays a vital role in building layers of flavor and texture.
- 1 lb Ground Chicken: The lean and tender base that keeps the burger moist while being keto-friendly.
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded: Adds a rich, creamy, and slightly sharp flavor that melts perfectly into the patties.
- 1/3 cup Bacon, crumbled: Provides smoky crunch and a salty depth, elevating the chicken patties.
- 2 tbsp Ranch Seasoning (low-carb): Infuses the burger with tangy herbs and spices for that unmistakable ranch flair.
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil: Used to cook the patties, ensuring a golden crust and juicy interior.
- 2 tbsp Butter: For the sauce, bringing a silky richness that rounds out the BBQ flavors.
- 1/2 Onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and aroma when softened in the sauce.
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream: Makes the BBQ sauce luxuriously creamy without adding carbs.
- 1/4 cup Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce: Delivers tangy, smoky notes without the added sugars you want to avoid.
- 1 tbsp Ranch Seasoning: Ties the sauce’s flavor to the patties’ seasoning, creating harmony on the palate.
How to Make Keto Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with Creamy BBQ Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Make the Patties
Start by combining the ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and ranch seasoning in a mixing bowl. Use your hands or a spoon to mix everything thoroughly but gently. Shape the mixture into four equally sized patties, making sure they’re compact enough to hold together while cooking but not overly dense. This balance ensures juicy, tender burgers.
Step 2: Cook the Patties
Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Carefully place your patties in the skillet and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes on each side. You’re aiming for a golden-brown exterior with fully cooked chicken inside. Resist the urge to press down — keeping them thick locks in all the delicious juices.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy BBQ Sauce
While the patties cook, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until they become soft and fragrant, which usually takes about 3 to 5 minutes. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, sugar-free BBQ sauce, and ranch seasoning. Lower the heat and let this simmer gently for 5 to 7 minutes so the sauce thickens and develops a decadent, creamy texture.
Step 4: Assemble Your Burgers
Once your patties are perfectly cooked and the BBQ sauce is thick and glossy, it’s time for the best part — assembling! Place each chicken patty on a plate and generously spoon the creamy BBQ sauce over the top. For an ultra-keto-friendly option, serve with crisp lettuce wraps instead of buns. You’ve got a meal that’s as comforting as it is low carb.
How to Serve Keto Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with Creamy BBQ Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh garnishes takes your burgers from great to spectacular. Think crisp lettuce leaves, slices of ripe avocado, and a handful of fresh herbs like chopped parsley or chives. These add color, crunch, and a burst of freshness that play nicely against the creamy BBQ sauce and savory patties.
Side Dishes
Pair these burgers with keto-friendly sides such as cauliflower “mac” and cheese, roasted Brussels sprouts, or a simple green salad tossed in a tangy vinaigrette. Each choice complements the rich flavors of the burgers while keeping the meal light and low carb.
Creative Ways to Present
Feel like mixing things up? Serve these burgers plated with a drizzle of extra creamy BBQ sauce artfully swooshed on the side. Or turn them into sliders using smaller patties for a party appetizer. You can even stuff the patties with a little more cheese or jalapeños before cooking for a flavorful surprise inside!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
These burgers keep well when stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep the creamy BBQ sauce separate if possible to maintain its silky texture. Just reheat gently to enjoy again.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked patties wrapped individually in plastic wrap and then stored in a freezer bag for up to 2 months. Freeze the sauce separately in a small container or freezer-safe bag to avoid texture changes. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat patties in a skillet over low-medium heat to retain moisture and get that satisfying crust back. Warm the sauce in a small saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to restore its creamy consistency without curdling.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works well and offers a similar lean protein base. Just watch the cooking time as turkey can sometimes cook faster or drier.
Is the BBQ sauce truly low carb?
Yes, this recipe uses sugar-free BBQ sauce to keep carbs low while delivering classic smoky, tangy flavor.
Can I make the patties ahead of time?
Definitely. You can prepare and shape the patties in advance, store them covered in the fridge for a day, then cook when ready.
What if I don’t have ranch seasoning?
You can easily substitute with a mix of garlic powder, onion powder, dried dill, and parsley for a homemade ranch seasoning blend.
Are lettuce wraps the best keto bun alternative?
Lettuce wraps are light and crisp, making them a popular choice, but you can also try keto-friendly buns or even portobello mushroom caps for variety.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a crowd-pleasing, keto-friendly meal that never compromises on flavor, the Keto Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with Creamy BBQ Sauce Recipe is a must-try. It’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and discover just how exciting healthy eating can be!
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Keto Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers with Creamy BBQ Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Carb
Description
These Keto Cheddar Ranch Chicken Burgers are a delicious low-carb option packed with flavorful ground chicken, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and zesty ranch seasoning. Topped with a rich and creamy BBQ sauce, these burgers are cooked in a skillet to juicy perfection and perfect for a satisfying keto-friendly meal.
Ingredients
For the Burgers
- 1 lb Ground Chicken
- 1 cup Cheddar Cheese, shredded
- 1/3 cup Bacon, crumbled
- 2 tbsp Ranch Seasoning (low-carb)
- 2 tbsp Olive Oil
For the Creamy BBQ Sauce
- 2 tbsp Butter
- 1/2 Onion, chopped
- 1 cup Heavy Whipping Cream
- 1/4 cup Sugar-Free BBQ Sauce
- 1 tbsp Ranch Seasoning
Instructions
- Make the Patties: In a bowl, combine ground chicken, shredded cheddar cheese, crumbled bacon, and ranch seasoning. Mix thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients, then shape the mixture into 4 equal-sized patties.
- Cook the Patties: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken patties and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side until they become golden brown on the outside and are cooked through internally (juices run clear and internal temperature reaches 165°F).
- Prepare the Sauce: In a separate saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 3-4 minutes. Pour in the heavy whipping cream, sugar-free BBQ sauce, and ranch seasoning, stirring to combine. Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Assemble: Serve the cooked chicken burgers topped generously with the creamy BBQ sauce. For a low-carb option, enjoy the burgers wrapped in lettuce leaves instead of buns to add extra crunch and freshness.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh ground chicken and avoid overmixing the patties to keep them tender.
- The creamy BBQ sauce can be prepared ahead and reheated gently before serving.
- Optional: Add sliced avocado or tomato for additional flavor and nutrition.
- Ensure the internal temperature of the patties reaches 165°F for food safety.
- This recipe is naturally low in carbs and perfect for ketogenic diets.
