Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe

Introduction

The Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a perfect combination of smoky, spicy grilled chicken, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh, vibrant ingredients all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. This hearty and flavorful burrito is not only quick and easy to make but also packs a punch of delicious flavors with each bite. Whether you’re craving a filling lunch, a quick dinner, or a meal prep option for the week, this burrito delivers all the flavor and satisfaction you need.

The smoky chipotle flavor, paired with the creamy ranch, creates a perfect balance of heat and coolness that elevates the grilled chicken. The fresh veggies add crunch and freshness, while the rice and beans offer a solid, filling base. This dish is versatile, so feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings and fillings for a truly personalized burrito experience.

Why You’ll Love Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

• Flavorful Grilled Chicken: The chicken is marinated in a blend of chipotle, spices, and ranch dressing, resulting in a smoky, spicy, and creamy flavor that perfectly complements the other ingredients.
• Perfectly Balanced: The combination of smoky grilled chicken, tangy chipotle ranch, fresh veggies, and hearty rice and beans makes this burrito a perfectly balanced meal in one.
• Easy and Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it ideal for a quick, satisfying meal. With minimal prep time, you can have a delicious burrito ready to enjoy in no time.
• Customizable: This recipe is incredibly versatile and allows you to add your favorite toppings and fillings. Whether you prefer guacamole, salsa, cheese, or jalapeños, you can make this burrito uniquely your own.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: These burritos are great for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for longer storage. Make a batch and enjoy them throughout the week.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 burritos
• Calories per Serving: Around 450-500 calories per burrito, depending on the ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Fat: 15-18g
• Carbohydrates: 45-50g
• Protein: 35-40g
• Fiber: 6-8g
• Sugar: 4-6g

Ingredients

For the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• ½ cup chipotle ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Burrito Fillings:

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup cooked white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
• 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
• ½ cup sliced avocado (optional)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges (for serving)
• Additional chipotle ranch dressing for drizzling (optional)

Special Equipment

While making the Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito doesn’t require specialized equipment, there are a few kitchen items that can make the process smoother and ensure great results:

1. Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: A grill pan works great on the stovetop, but if you have access to an outdoor grill, that will give your chicken the perfect smoky char and flavor.
2. Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer helps ensure that your chicken is cooked through to a safe internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
3. Sauté Pan or Skillet: For heating the tortillas and lightly toasting them before assembling the burritos, a large sauté pan or skillet works well.
4. Cutting Board and Knife: Use a cutting board and sharp knife to chop the vegetables, cilantro, and chicken.
5. Mixing Bowls: You’ll need a couple of mixing bowls—one for marinating the chicken and one for assembling the burrito fillings.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Marinade

In a mixing bowl, combine the chipotle ranch dressing, olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir well to combine.

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to allow the flavors to meld. The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it will absorb.

2. Grill the Chicken

While the chicken is marinating, heat a grill pan or outdoor grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates or pan to prevent sticking. Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Be sure to flip the chicken halfway through the cooking time to ensure even grilling. Once the chicken is fully cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

3. Prepare the Burrito Fillings

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the other burrito fillings. In a small bowl, warm the cooked rice, either in the microwave or on the stovetop. Heat the black beans in a small saucepan over low heat, or microwave them until warm.

Shred the lettuce, dice the tomatoes, slice the avocado (if using), and chop the cilantro. Set all of the fillings aside in separate bowls, ready for assembling the burritos.

4. Assemble the Burritos

Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thin strips or bite-sized pieces. Lay the flour tortillas flat on a clean surface or plate. Spoon a generous portion of rice and black beans in the center of each tortilla, leaving space around the edges to fold the burrito.

Top the rice and beans with the grilled chicken, shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and sliced avocado. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro for added flavor and color. Drizzle extra chipotle ranch dressing over the fillings if desired.

5. Roll the Burritos

To roll the burritos, fold the sides of the tortilla in toward the center, then gently roll the burrito from the bottom, enclosing all the ingredients. Continue rolling tightly until the burrito is fully wrapped. Be careful not to overstuff the burrito to ensure it stays closed during rolling.

If you prefer, you can toast the burrito in a skillet for 2-3 minutes on each side to give it a crispy exterior and a golden finish. This step is optional, but it adds a great texture and flavor to the burrito.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the burritos are rolled and toasted (if desired), cut them in half and serve with lime wedges and additional chipotle ranch dressing on the side for extra flavor. Enjoy these delicious burritos immediately!

Tips for Perfect Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos

• Use Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they cook quickly and are easy to slice into strips. You can substitute with thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
• Customize Your Fillings: Feel free to add or substitute any ingredients to suit your taste. Try adding sautéed peppers, onions, corn, or even a handful of greens like spinach or arugula for extra nutrients.
• Make the Chipotle Ranch Dressing at Home: If you prefer a homemade version, you can easily make your own chipotle ranch dressing by combining ranch dressing with chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic powder, and lime juice. Adjust the heat level by adding more or less chipotle.
• Toast the Tortillas: If you want to take your burrito to the next level, lightly toast the tortillas in a skillet before assembling. This will give the burrito a slightly crispy exterior and a nice flavor boost.
• Wrap and Freeze for Meal Prep: You can wrap the burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and freeze them for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave the burrito or heat it in the oven until warmed through.

Variations of Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos

• Steak Burritos: Swap the chicken for grilled steak or a different protein, like ground beef or pork. Marinate the steak with the same chipotle ranch dressing for a delicious alternative.
• Vegetarian Burritos: For a meatless version, substitute the chicken with grilled vegetables, such as bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms, or use a hearty filling like seasoned black beans or roasted sweet potatoes.
• Spicy Chipotle Ranch Burrito: Add more chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the ranch dressing for an extra kick. You can also incorporate some chopped jalapeños into the fillings for added heat.
• Burrito Bowl: If you’re in the mood for a lighter option, turn this recipe into a burrito bowl. Skip the tortilla and serve the rice, beans, grilled chicken, and toppings in a bowl for a low-carb version.

Storage and Shelf Life

These Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer:

• In the Refrigerator: Store the assembled burritos in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or in a skillet until warmed through.
• In the Freezer: Wrap the burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. To reheat, microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

Pair your burritos with complementary sides to complete the meal:

• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This creamy and spicy corn on the cob is the perfect side to complement the bold flavors of the chipotle ranch grilled chicken.
• Guacamole and Chips: A side of guacamole with crispy tortilla chips is always a crowd-pleaser and makes the perfect pairing with burritos.
• Refried Beans or Spanish Rice: Serve the burritos with a side of refried beans or Spanish rice for an authentic Mexican-inspired meal.
• Crispy Potato Wedges: For a fun twist, serve your burritos with crispy seasoned potato wedges, either baked or fried.

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Conclusion

The Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito brings together the perfect combination of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors, all wrapped up in a warm tortilla for a satisfying and delicious meal. With quick preparation, customizable fillings, and plenty of flavor, this burrito is sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re meal prepping, feeding a crowd, or simply craving a flavorful and filling meal, these burritos hit the spot. Enjoy the bold flavors of chipotle ranch grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and all your favorite toppings with this easy-to-make recipe!