Craving a burrito that’s bold, smoky, and packed with flavor? This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is the ultimate meal hack. Juicy grilled chicken marinated in a zesty chipotle-ranch blend, wrapped up with creamy avocado, melty cheese, tender rice, and crisp veggies—it’s everything you love about Chipotle-style burritos but made fresh at home. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this recipe will have your taste buds dancing. Let’s roll!
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chipotle Ranch Marinade:
- ¼ cup ranch dressing (homemade or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce , finely chopped (adjust for spice level)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (for that signature smoky kick)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Burrito Filling:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs for extra juiciness)
- 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (Cilantro-lime rice is a great option!)
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend works perfectly)
- 1 avocado , sliced or mashed
- ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or roasted)
- ½ cup black beans , rinsed and drained
- ½ cup pico de gallo or diced tomatoes
- Lettuce or shredded cabbage (optional, for crunch)
- Sour cream or extra ranch dressing (for drizzling)
For Assembly:
- Large flour tortillas (burrito-sized, about 10–12 inches)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, chopped chipotle peppers, olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them, ensuring they’re fully coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
Step 2: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat your grill, grill pan, or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
- Grill the chicken for 6–8 minutes per side , or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) .
- Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.
Step 3: Prep Your Fillings
While the chicken rests, gather and prep all your burrito fillings: cook the rice, slice the avocado, shred the cheese, and warm the tortillas. Having everything ready will make assembly a breeze.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
- Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin layer of sour cream or ranch dressing in the center.
- Layer the fillings in this order:
- A scoop of rice
- A few slices of grilled chicken
- Shredded cheese
- Black beans and corn
- Avocado slices or guacamole
- Pico de gallo or diced tomatoes
- Lettuce or cabbage (if using)
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then tightly roll it up from the bottom to form a burrito.
Step 5: Optional Crisping
For an extra-crispy burrito shell, lightly brush the outside of the tortilla with oil and toast it on a skillet or griddle over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side, until golden and slightly crunchy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- Smoky-Spicy Flavor: The chipotle ranch marinade adds a bold, smoky kick that’s balanced by creamy avocado and cool ranch.
- Customizable: Mix and match your favorite fillings—add jalapeños, swap beans for veggies, or go heavier on the cheese.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Assemble burritos ahead of time, wrap them in foil, and freeze for quick grab-and-go meals.
Tips for Success:
- Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of chipotle peppers based on how spicy you like it. Start with 1 tablespoon and add more as needed.
- Warm Tortillas First: Heating your tortillas makes them more pliable and less likely to tear during rolling.
- Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make rolling tricky. Stick to about 1–1.5 cups of ingredients per burrito.
Ways to Serve Your Chipotle Ranch Burrito:
- As Is: Enjoy it straight out of the foil for a handheld meal.
- With Sides: Pair it with tortilla chips, salsa, or a side of Mexican street corn for a full feast.
- Breakfast Style: Add scrambled eggs and hash browns for a morning twist.
This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a flavor-packed masterpiece that’s easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re whipping it up for a weeknight dinner or prepping for busy days ahead, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. So fire up the grill, grab your tortillas, and get ready to roll your way to burrito bliss! 🌯
