Delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

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It’s no secret that my family are burrito fanatics. We could probably eat them every week and never get tired of them, especially if they are packed with flavor and easy to customize. Lately, our absolute favorite has been this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito. The smoky, slightly spicy kick of chipotle perfectly complements the creamy coolness of ranch dressing, all wrapped around juicy grilled chicken and your favorite burrito fillings. From the first bite, it was a hit – the kids devoured them, my husband declared them restaurant-worthy, and even I was impressed by how simple yet incredibly tasty they were. This recipe has become a regular in our meal rotation, and I’m so excited to share it with you so you can experience the deliciousness for yourself!

Ingredients: Your Burrito Building Blocks

To craft these mouthwatering Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

  • Chicken Breasts: 2 pounds, boneless and skinless, the lean protein powerhouse of our burrito, providing a satisfying and healthy base.
  • Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: 2-3 peppers, plus 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce, these are the key to our smoky and slightly spicy flavor profile, adding depth and warmth.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, used for both the marinade and grilling, it helps keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking.
  • Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed, adds a bright, citrusy tang that balances the richness of the other flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, a pantry staple that enhances the savory notes of the marinade and chicken.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, complements the garlic and adds another layer of savory depth to the chicken marinade.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon, essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground, adds a touch of spice and complexity to the marinade.
  • Large Flour Tortillas: 8-10, burrito size, these are the vessels that hold all our delicious fillings together, choose your favorite brand and size.
  • Cooked Rice: 2 cups, fluffy and cooked, provides a hearty base for the burrito and absorbs the delicious sauces. White or brown rice works well.
  • Black Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained, adds protein, fiber, and a creamy texture to the burrito filling.
  • Corn: 1 cup, frozen or canned (drained), provides a touch of sweetness and a pop of color and texture.
  • Shredded Cheese: 1 cup, Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend, adds melty goodness and cheesy flavor.
  • Ranch Dressing: 1/2 cup, your favorite creamy ranch dressing, the cool and tangy counterpoint to the chipotle spice, bringing everything together.
  • Optional Toppings: Diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, these allow for customization and add extra freshness and flavor.

Instructions: Crafting Your Perfect Burrito

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create these incredibly flavorful Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Minimum 30 minutes, Ideally 2-4 hours)

In a medium-sized bowl, prepare the marinade. Finely chop the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Be cautious when handling chipotle peppers, as they can be quite spicy. For a milder flavor, start with just two peppers and adjust to taste later. Add the chopped chipotle peppers and 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce to the bowl. Then, add the olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk all the marinade ingredients together until well combined.

Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade. You can use your hands or tongs to toss the chicken. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place it in a resealable bag. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor and tender chicken, marinate for 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you plan ahead. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken (15-20 minutes)

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before grilling. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.

Place the marinated chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the chicken dry. You want it to be juicy and tender. Grilling time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and the heat of your grill. Look for nice grill marks and ensure the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Fillings (During Chicken Grilling)

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the burrito fillings. If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package directions. Rinse and drain the black beans. If using frozen corn, you can quickly microwave or sauté it until heated through. Canned corn should be drained. Shred your cheese if you haven’t purchased pre-shredded cheese. Gather any other desired toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and chopped cilantro and have them ready to go. Warm up the black beans and corn gently on the stovetop or in the microwave if you prefer them warm in your burrito.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos (5-10 minutes per burrito)

Warm the flour tortillas. You can do this by lightly grilling them on the same grill you used for the chicken for about 15-20 seconds per side, microwaving them briefly wrapped in a damp paper towel, or warming them in a dry skillet or comal. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from tearing when you fill and roll them.

Slice or shred the grilled chicken. You can slice it into strips or shred it using two forks, depending on your preference. Set up your burrito assembly station. Lay out a warm tortilla. Start by adding a layer of cooked rice in the center of the tortilla, leaving some space around the edges for folding. Top the rice with a portion of black beans, corn, and shredded cheese. Add a generous amount of the grilled chipotle chicken on top of the cheese. Drizzle a good amount of ranch dressing over the chicken and fillings.

Step 5: Roll the Burritos (Practice makes perfect!)

To roll the burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling. Then, bring the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling, tucking it tightly as you roll. Continue rolling tightly until you have a sealed burrito. Don’t overfill the burritos, as this can make them difficult to roll and they might burst open during cooking. If desired, you can grill the assembled burritos for a few minutes per side to seal them and add a nice toasted flavor and texture to the tortilla. Place the assembled burritos seam-down on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown and heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! (Immediately for best taste)

Serve your delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos immediately while they are warm and the tortillas are still soft (or slightly crispy if grilled). Offer your choice of optional toppings alongside so everyone can customize their burrito to their liking. These burritos are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with sides like tortilla chips and salsa, guacamole, a fresh salad, or a side of Mexican rice.

Nutrition Facts: A Glance at Your Burrito

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes. The following is an approximate estimation per serving, assuming 8 servings from the recipe):

  • Servings: 8
  • Calories: Approximately 550-650 kcal
  • Protein: 40-50g

This recipe provides a balanced meal with a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and fiber. Remember to adjust portion sizes and ingredient choices to fit your individual dietary needs and preferences. Using whole wheat tortillas or brown rice can further increase the fiber content.

Preparation Time: Get Ready to Grill!

  • Marinating Time: Minimum 30 minutes, ideally 2-4 hours (up to overnight for maximum flavor).
  • Prep Time (chopping, measuring ingredients): 20 minutes.
  • Grilling Time: 15-20 minutes.
  • Assembly Time: 15-20 minutes.
  • Total Time: Approximately 1 hour (excluding longer marinating times).

While the marinating time requires some advance planning, the active cooking and assembly time for these Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos is relatively quick, making them a great option for a weeknight meal or a weekend gathering. You can even prep the marinade and chicken in the morning or the day before to streamline the process further.

How to Serve: Burrito Bliss and Beyond

These Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos are incredibly versatile and can be served in a variety of ways to create a complete and satisfying meal:

  • Classic Burrito Style: Serve them simply as they are, wrapped in foil or parchment paper for easy handling and enjoying. Perfect for a casual meal or on-the-go lunch.
  • Burrito Bowls: For a lighter option or for those who prefer to skip the tortilla, deconstruct the burrito into a bowl. Layer rice, black beans, corn, grilled chicken, cheese, ranch dressing, and your favorite toppings in a bowl instead of a tortilla.
  • Grilled Burrito Perfection: After assembling, grill the burritos briefly to create a crispy tortilla exterior and melt the cheese inside. This adds a wonderful texture contrast and elevates the burrito experience.
  • With Sides: Enhance your burrito meal with complementary side dishes:
    • Tortilla Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing that adds crunch and freshness.
    • Guacamole: Creamy and flavorful, guacamole is a must-have with burritos.
    • Mexican Rice: Serve alongside for an extra hearty and authentic Mexican-inspired meal.
    • Black Bean and Corn Salad: A refreshing and vibrant salad that complements the richness of the burrito.
    • Simple Green Salad: A light salad to balance the heartiness of the burrito.
  • Topping Bar: Set up a topping bar with a variety of options like sour cream, salsa, pico de gallo, chopped cilantro, diced onions, jalapeños, and hot sauce, allowing everyone to customize their burrito to their liking.
  • Party Platter: For gatherings, arrange the burritos on a platter, cut in half for easier serving and sharing. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for a visually appealing presentation.
  • Family Style Feast: Serve all the components – grilled chicken, rice, beans, corn, cheese, ranch, tortillas, and toppings – buffet style, allowing everyone to build their own burritos exactly how they like them.

Additional Tips: Elevate Your Burrito Game

Here are eight helpful tips to ensure your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos are absolutely perfect every time:

  1. Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Don’t skimp on the marinating time! Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 2 hours (or even overnight) will result in significantly more flavorful and tender chicken. The longer it marinates, the deeper the chipotle and ranch flavors will penetrate.
  2. Adjust the Spice Level: Chipotle peppers can be quite spicy. If you are sensitive to spice, start with just one chipotle pepper and taste the marinade before adding more. You can also remove the seeds and membranes from the peppers to reduce the heat. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to the marinade.
  3. Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and remove it from the grill promptly. Resting the chicken after grilling is also crucial for juicy results.
  4. Warm Your Tortillas Properly: Warming tortillas is essential for pliability and preventing tearing. Whether you choose to grill, microwave, or use a skillet, make sure they are warm but not too hot or crispy. A slightly damp paper towel in the microwave helps keep them soft.
  5. Don’t Overfill the Burritos: It’s tempting to pack your burritos with fillings, but overfilling makes them difficult to roll and prone to bursting. Start with a moderate amount of each filling and adjust as you get comfortable rolling.
  6. Grill Your Assembled Burritos (Optional but Recommended): Grilling the assembled burritos for a few minutes per side adds a delightful smoky flavor and crispy texture to the tortilla. It also helps to seal the burrito and melt the cheese inside, creating a truly restaurant-quality experience.
  7. Make Ahead Components: To save time on busy days, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the fillings ahead of time. The marinated chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Cook the rice, beans, and corn in advance and store them separately. Then, simply grill the chicken and assemble the burritos when you’re ready to eat.
  8. Customize Your Fillings and Toppings: Feel free to get creative with your burrito fillings and toppings! Add other vegetables like sautéed bell peppers and onions, roasted sweet potatoes, or avocado slices. Experiment with different types of cheese, salsas, and sauces to create your perfect burrito combination. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess.

FAQ: Your Chipotle Ranch Burrito Questions Answered

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you master the art of making Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos:

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A: Yes, absolutely! Chicken thighs will work just as well and can be even more flavorful and forgiving on the grill due to their higher fat content. Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are recommended for easy grilling and burrito assembly.

Q2: I don’t have a grill. Can I cook the chicken another way?
A: Definitely! You can pan-sear the chicken in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat for about 5-7 minutes per side, or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. You can also use an indoor grill pan.

Q3: Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
A: Yes, easily! Substitute the chicken with grilled or roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, sweet potatoes, or portobello mushrooms. You could also use seasoned black beans or lentils as a protein-rich filling.

Q4: How can I store leftover burritos?
A: Wrap leftover burritos individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave, oven, or skillet until heated through. Grilling leftover burritos can help restore some of the tortilla crispness.

Q5: Can I freeze these burritos?
A: Yes, burritos freeze well! Assemble and wrap them tightly in foil, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat as directed above.

Q6: What if I don’t have chipotle peppers in adobo sauce? Can I substitute something else?
A: While chipotle peppers in adobo sauce are key to the signature flavor, you can substitute with smoked paprika and a pinch of cayenne pepper for a smoky and slightly spicy flavor. You can also use chipotle powder, but adjust the amount to your spice preference.

Q7: Can I make the ranch dressing from scratch?
A: Absolutely! Making homemade ranch dressing is a great way to customize the flavor and control the ingredients. There are many delicious ranch dressing recipes available online, often using buttermilk, mayonnaise, herbs, and spices.

Q8: What are some other filling ideas besides rice, beans, and corn?
A: Get creative! Consider adding sautéed onions and peppers, roasted sweet potatoes, pico de gallo, guacamole, pickled onions, or different types of cheese. The possibilities are endless!

Enjoy making and savoring these incredibly delicious and customizable Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos! They are sure to become a family favorite, perfect for any occasion.

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Delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito


  • Author: Sarah

Ingredients

To craft these mouthwatering Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos, you’ll need a handful of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

  • Chicken Breasts: 2 pounds, boneless and skinless, the lean protein powerhouse of our burrito, providing a satisfying and healthy base.
  • Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: 2-3 peppers, plus 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce, these are the key to our smoky and slightly spicy flavor profile, adding depth and warmth.
  • Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons, used for both the marinade and grilling, it helps keep the chicken moist and prevents sticking.
  • Lime Juice: 2 tablespoons, freshly squeezed, adds a bright, citrusy tang that balances the richness of the other flavors and tenderizes the chicken.
  • Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon, a pantry staple that enhances the savory notes of the marinade and chicken.
  • Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon, complements the garlic and adds another layer of savory depth to the chicken marinade.
  • Salt: 1 teaspoon, essential for seasoning and bringing out the natural flavors of all the ingredients.
  • Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon, freshly ground, adds a touch of spice and complexity to the marinade.
  • Large Flour Tortillas: 8-10, burrito size, these are the vessels that hold all our delicious fillings together, choose your favorite brand and size.
  • Cooked Rice: 2 cups, fluffy and cooked, provides a hearty base for the burrito and absorbs the delicious sauces. White or brown rice works well.
  • Black Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained, adds protein, fiber, and a creamy texture to the burrito filling.
  • Corn: 1 cup, frozen or canned (drained), provides a touch of sweetness and a pop of color and texture.
  • Shredded Cheese: 1 cup, Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend, adds melty goodness and cheesy flavor.
  • Ranch Dressing: 1/2 cup, your favorite creamy ranch dressing, the cool and tangy counterpoint to the chipotle spice, bringing everything together.
  • Optional Toppings: Diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, chopped cilantro, these allow for customization and add extra freshness and flavor.

Instructions

Let’s walk through the simple steps to create these incredibly flavorful Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos:

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken (Minimum 30 minutes, Ideally 2-4 hours)

In a medium-sized bowl, prepare the marinade. Finely chop the chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. Be cautious when handling chipotle peppers, as they can be quite spicy. For a milder flavor, start with just two peppers and adjust to taste later. Add the chopped chipotle peppers and 1 tablespoon of adobo sauce to the bowl. Then, add the olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk all the marinade ingredients together until well combined.

Place the chicken breasts in the bowl with the marinade. Ensure each piece of chicken is thoroughly coated in the marinade. You can use your hands or tongs to toss the chicken. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or place it in a resealable bag. Refrigerate the chicken for at least 30 minutes. For the best flavor and tender chicken, marinate for 2-4 hours, or even overnight if you plan ahead. The longer the chicken marinates, the more flavorful it will become.

Step 2: Grill the Chicken (15-20 minutes)

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking. Remove the marinated chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for about 10-15 minutes before grilling. This helps the chicken cook more evenly.

Place the marinated chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for approximately 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Avoid overcooking, as this can make the chicken dry. You want it to be juicy and tender. Grilling time may vary depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts and the heat of your grill. Look for nice grill marks and ensure the chicken is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing or shredding. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, resulting in more tender and flavorful meat.

Step 3: Prepare the Fillings (During Chicken Grilling)

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the burrito fillings. If you haven’t already, cook your rice according to package directions. Rinse and drain the black beans. If using frozen corn, you can quickly microwave or sauté it until heated through. Canned corn should be drained. Shred your cheese if you haven’t purchased pre-shredded cheese. Gather any other desired toppings like diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and chopped cilantro and have them ready to go. Warm up the black beans and corn gently on the stovetop or in the microwave if you prefer them warm in your burrito.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos (5-10 minutes per burrito)

Warm the flour tortillas. You can do this by lightly grilling them on the same grill you used for the chicken for about 15-20 seconds per side, microwaving them briefly wrapped in a damp paper towel, or warming them in a dry skillet or comal. Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from tearing when you fill and roll them.

Slice or shred the grilled chicken. You can slice it into strips or shred it using two forks, depending on your preference. Set up your burrito assembly station. Lay out a warm tortilla. Start by adding a layer of cooked rice in the center of the tortilla, leaving some space around the edges for folding. Top the rice with a portion of black beans, corn, and shredded cheese. Add a generous amount of the grilled chipotle chicken on top of the cheese. Drizzle a good amount of ranch dressing over the chicken and fillings.

Step 5: Roll the Burritos (Practice makes perfect!)

To roll the burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling. Then, bring the bottom edge of the tortilla up and over the filling, tucking it tightly as you roll. Continue rolling tightly until you have a sealed burrito. Don’t overfill the burritos, as this can make them difficult to roll and they might burst open during cooking. If desired, you can grill the assembled burritos for a few minutes per side to seal them and add a nice toasted flavor and texture to the tortilla. Place the assembled burritos seam-down on the hot grill or skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown and heated through.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy! (Immediately for best taste)

Serve your delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos immediately while they are warm and the tortillas are still soft (or slightly crispy if grilled). Offer your choice of optional toppings alongside so everyone can customize their burrito to their liking. These burritos are fantastic on their own, but they also pair well with sides like tortilla chips and salsa, guacamole, a fresh salad, or a side of Mexican rice.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 650
  • Protein: 50g