Name: Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts; 6 flour tortillas (burrito size); 1 14 oz. can black beans (drained and rinsed); 1 1/2 cups cooked Mexican rice; 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated); 1 large tomato (diced); 2 cups shredded lettuce; 1 cup tortilla strips; 2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce; 1 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp. lime juice; 1 avocado; 1/2 cup ranch dressing

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 20 reviews

If you have a craving for something bursting with smoky, tangy flavor wrapped up in a warm tortilla, you have to try this Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe. This burrito is a delightful marriage of juicy grilled chicken, creamy chipotle mayo, and fresh, crunchy ingredients that come together in perfect harmony. It’s a dish that feels like a fiesta with every bite, combining textures and tastes that will make this one a fast favorite for lunch, dinner, or anytime you want a satisfying and vibrant meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a meal set on a white marbled surface with two folded soft tortillas on the left. In the middle, a white round plate holds two pieces of grilled chicken with light brown grill marks. Above the plate, two small white bowls contain black beans and orange-colored rice with small red bits. To the right, a small metal bowl filled with a light green creamy sauce sits above a black plate divided into three sections holding chopped red tomatoes, shredded orange cheddar cheese, and shredded green lettuce. Below the chicken plate, a white bowl holds small golden fried strips, and to its left, a metal bowl contains a light pink creamy sauce with herbs. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly straightforward but thoughtfully chosen to create layers of flavor and a perfect balance of textures. Each item plays a vital role in bringing this Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe to life, whether it’s the smoky chipotle chiles, the creamy avocado ranch sauce, or the crisp freshness of the greens and tomatoes.

1 lb. boneless skinless chicken breasts: The hearty protein base that grills up juicy and tender, making every bite satisfying.
6 flour tortillas (burrito size): Soft and flexible, these hold all the fillings together without tearing.
1 14 oz. can black beans (drained and rinsed): Adds a creamy, earthy flavor along with fiber and protein.
1 1/2 cups cooked Mexican rice: A zesty and colorful component that brings warmth and substance.
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese (grated): Melts beautifully to add richness and a bit of tang.
1 large tomato (diced): Brings bright freshness and a pop of natural sweetness.
2 cups shredded lettuce: Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to balance the richness.
1 cup tortilla strips: For an extra layer of crispy texture inside the burrito.
2 chipotle chiles in adobo sauce: Infuse smoky heat with a deep, complex flavor that elevates the whole dish.
1 cup mayonnaise: Provides creaminess for the chipotle mayo, tying flavors together.
1/2 tsp. lime juice: Adds a subtle zing to brighten the chipotle mayo.
1 avocado: Creamy and buttery, it’s key for the luscious avocado ranch sauce.
1/2 cup ranch dressing: Blends with avocado to create a cool, herbaceous dipping sauce.

How to Make Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe

Step 1: Grill the Chicken to Juicy Perfection

Start by heating your grill to 350 degrees. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper to bring out their natural flavor. Grill the chicken for 5 to 7 minutes per side, until cooked through and beautifully charred on the outside. If grilling isn’t an option, the oven method of 375 degrees for 20 to 25 minutes works just as well. Once cooked, slice the chicken into thin strips to make it easier to layer inside your burrito.

Step 2: Whip Up the Smoky Chipotle Mayo

Next, finely chop the chipotle chiles in adobo sauce to release their smoky heat without overpowering the dish. Mix them with mayonnaise and a splash of lime juice to brighten things up. This chipotle mayo is the magic touch that ties everything together with creamy spice.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Avocado Ranch Sauce

Mash the ripe avocado until silky smooth, then mix in the ranch dressing. This avocado ranch sauce creates a dreamy dip that’s perfect for cooling down bites with a hint of fresh herbs and rich creaminess.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos Like a Pro

Lay a large tortilla flat and spread a line of chipotle mayo down the center. Pile it up with sliced grilled chicken, black beans, Mexican rice, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, grated cheddar, and crunchy tortilla strips. Be sure to leave about a 1/2 inch space at the edges so you can fold the burrito without any fillings escaping.

Step 5: Roll and Fold for Perfect Burritos

Fold one end of the tortilla over the fillings, then tuck and press gently as you roll. Fold in the sides to seal your flavorful bundle tightly. Placing your roll seam side down on the surface helps it stay together while you finish rolling and prepares it for grilling.

Step 6: Crisp Up the Burritos on a Sizzling Pan

Heat a nonstick pan over medium heat with a thin layer of oil. Place each burrito seam side down in the pan and grill until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, then flip to do the same on the other side. This step adds a wonderful crunch and seals in all those fabulous fillings.

Step 7: Serve with Creamy Avocado Ranch Sauce

Plate your grilled burritos and offer a generous side of the avocado ranch sauce for dipping. This final touch adds cool richness that balances the smoky and spicy flavors magnificently.

How to Serve Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe

A golden brown folded flatbread with a crispy texture on top, showing light and darker brown spots, is cooking in a black pan with slight oil glistening around it. The flatbread looks soft near the edges, which are slightly puffed and pale, creating a contrast with the crispy center. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding fresh garnishes like chopped cilantro, extra diced tomatoes, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice brightens up the dish. Don’t forget a sprinkle of extra cheese or a handful of crunchy tortilla strips on top for that extra pop of texture and flavor.

Side Dishes

Pair this Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe with classic sides such as Mexican street corn, a zesty black bean salad, or a simple guacamole and chips platter. These accompaniments complement the burrito’s complexity and keep the meal vibrant and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try slicing the burritos in half to reveal those colorful layers, making them perfect for sharing. You can also wrap individual burritos in foil for an on-the-go meal or serve them with a mixed greens salad topped with avocado ranch for an extra fresh bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover burritos can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes for an easy grab-and-go lunch or dinner later in the week without losing any of the vibrant flavors.

Freezing

If you want to keep them longer, freeze the burritos individually before or after grilling by wrapping them well in foil and placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll last up to two months and are a fantastic option for convenient meal prep.

Reheating

To reheat, unwrap the burrito and warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through and the outside crisps up again. Alternatively, microwave for about 1-2 minutes, though it won’t retain the same crispy texture. Serve with fresh avocado ranch sauce to revive all the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs have a slightly richer flavor and stay juicy, making them a great alternative. Just adjust cooking times to ensure they are fully cooked and tender.

Is there a vegetarian version of this Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe?

Yes! Swap the chicken for grilled vegetables, tofu, or extra black beans, and maybe add some roasted sweet potatoes for a hearty vegetarian option that still delivers big on flavor.

Can I make the chipotle mayo and avocado ranch sauce ahead of time?

Definitely. Both sauces can be prepared a day ahead and stored in airtight containers in the fridge. This actually helps the flavors meld and deepen overnight.

What can I do if I don’t have a grill or stovetop?

You can bake the chicken in the oven and use a panini press or oven broiler to crisp up the burritos. A grill pan on the stove is also a fantastic alternative to get those char marks.

How spicy is this Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe?

The chipotle chiles add a smoky moderate heat that’s flavorful but not overpowering. If you prefer less spice, reduce the amount of chipotle in the mayo or leave the seeds out when chopping.

Final Thoughts

This Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito Recipe is one of those meals that feels like a warm hug wrapped in a tortilla. The combination of smoky chipotle, creamy sauces, and fresh vibrant ingredients comes together so beautifully, it’s impossible not to fall in love on the first bite. I hope you enjoy making and sharing this flavorful burrito as much as I do. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a go-to in your recipe rotation!