The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a delightful and hearty meal for any occasion. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a filling lunch, this dish has you covered. The combination of juicy grilled chicken seasoned with smoky spices, paired with rice, beans, fresh veggies, and a zesty chipotle ranch dressing, creates an explosion of flavor that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This burrito can be prepared in just 45 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Combination: The smoky spices and tangy chipotle ranch dressing elevate the taste to a new level.
- Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for lunches throughout the week or for feeding a crowd.
- Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love this satisfying meal wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Tools and Preparation
To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, gather the essential tools needed for this recipe.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Knife
- Cutting board
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: This tool is essential for achieving those beautiful grill marks and smoky flavor on the chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Having various sizes helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly without making a mess.
- Whisk: A whisk is perfect for blending the chipotle ranch dressing smoothly.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures easy chopping of vegetables and preparing ingredients quickly.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Marinade
- 2 boneless (skinless chicken breasts)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Burrito Filling
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup chipotle ranch dressing
How to Make Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Begin by marinating the chicken breasts. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well combined.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish.
- Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are coated.
- Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes.
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
- Grill each breast for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- Once cooked, remove from heat and let rest before slicing into strips.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Now it’s time to build your burrito masterpiece!
- Lay out each tortilla flat on a clean surface.
- Start with a layer of rice followed by black beans.
- Add sliced grilled chicken on top along with cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, corn (if using), cilantro (if using), and drizzle with chipotle ranch dressing.
- Fold in both sides of the tortilla and roll from one end to create a tight burrito.
Step 4: Serve
Cut each burrito in half if desired and serve immediately with extra chipotle ranch dressing on the side for dipping! Enjoy your delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito!
How to Serve Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.
Pair with Fresh Salsa
- Pico de Gallo: A mix of diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice for a fresh, zesty kick.
- Corn Salsa: Combine sweet corn with diced peppers and onions for added crunch and flavor.
Add Extra Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the heat from the chipotle ranch dressing.
- Avocado or Guacamole: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole provide richness and a smooth texture.
Serve with Crunchy Chips
- Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips make a perfect side for scooping up any leftover rice or salsa.
- Plantain Chips: For a unique twist, serve with crispy plantain chips that add sweetness.
Enjoy with a Side Salad
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a vinaigrette complements the burrito’s richness.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful salad combines corn, lime, and cheese for a delicious pairing.
How to Perfect Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
Creating the ideal Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito involves attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure you’re making the best version possible.
- Bold seasoning: Marinate the chicken in spices longer for deeper flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes if possible.
- Perfectly grill chicken: Use medium-high heat to achieve those beautiful grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
- Warm tortillas: Warm your tortillas briefly on the grill or stovetop to make them more pliable and enjoyable to eat.
- Layer wisely: Start with rice, then beans, followed by chicken and toppings. This helps prevent sogginess.
Best Side Dishes for Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
Pairing your burrito with complementary side dishes can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options:
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side made with tomatoes, spices, and cilantro that enhances the burrito’s taste.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add protein and are perfect for dipping tortilla chips.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred zucchini, bell peppers, and onions provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with the burrito.
- Corn on the Cob: Serve grilled or boiled corn on the cob drizzled with lime juice and sprinkled with chili powder.
- Chili Lime Quinoa: This nutritious option brings in protein and complements the burrito’s bold flavors perfectly.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing cucumber salad dressed in citrus can cleanse your palate between bites of burrito goodness.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Baked or fried sweet potato fries offer a slight sweetness that balances out spicy flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to ensure your burritos turn out perfectly every time.
- Bold seasoning – Not seasoning the chicken properly can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to use the recommended spices for a tasty result.
- Bold overcooking chicken – Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Grill your chicken just until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Bold skipping the rest period – Cutting into chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing for juicy burritos.
- Bold using cold tortillas – Cold tortillas can crack when rolled. Warm them up slightly in a skillet or microwave before assembling your burrito.
- Bold overcrowding fillings – Overstuffing your burrito can make wrapping difficult. Use a moderate amount of each filling for easier rolling and a neater presentation.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container.
- They will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
- Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
- Freeze them for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
- Oven – Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Wrap the burrito in foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
- Microwave – Place the burrito on a microwave-safe plate. Heat on high for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway through.
- Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the burrito seam-side down and cook for about 3-5 minutes, turning occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito.
What can I substitute for chicken in the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito?
You can use turkey or beef as alternatives to chicken, keeping the same marinade and cooking methods.
Can I make Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the components ahead of time and assemble them just before serving for maximum freshness.
How do I customize my Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito?
Feel free to add extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, or different types of beans to suit your taste.
What type of tortilla is best for this burrito?
Flour tortillas work best due to their flexibility, but you can use whole wheat or corn tortillas if preferred.
Final Thoughts
The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is not only delicious but also versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or packing lunch for work, this recipe is sure to please everyone at your table!
Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a mouthwatering dish that combines the bold flavors of grilled chicken marinated in smoky spices with a medley of fresh ingredients, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep, this hearty burrito offers a customizable experience that caters to everyone’s tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, each bite delivers an explosion of flavor enhanced by the zesty chipotle ranch dressing. This versatile recipe is sure to become a family favorite and can be easily adapted to include your favorite vegetables or toppings.
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
- 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- 1/2 cup chipotle ranch dressing
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken in olive oil, lime juice, and spices for at least 15 minutes.
- Preheat the grill and cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Slice the grilled chicken and assemble the burritos with rice, beans, cheese, and veggies.
- Roll tightly and serve with extra chipotle ranch dressing on the side.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 620
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 70g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, let the chicken marinate longer if time permits. Warm tortillas briefly on the grill to make them more pliable. Customize by adding your favorite toppings like jalapeños or avocado.