Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This burrito brings the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors. The chipotle ranch marinade infuses the chicken with deep, complex flavors while keeping it juicy and tender. When wrapped up with rice, beans, cheese, and fresh veggies, it becomes a mouthwatering meal that’s both hearty and refreshing. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this burrito is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

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 Burritos:

• 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
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ½ cup corn kernels (optional)
• ¼ cup chopped cilantro (optional)
• ½ cup chipotle ranch dressing

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to soak in.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into strips.
3. Assemble the Burritos: Warm the flour tortillas slightly in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them more pliable. On each tortilla, add a scoop of cooked rice, followed by black beans, grilled chicken, shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomatoes, corn (if using), and chopped cilantro (if using).
4. Add the Chipotle Ranch Dressing: Drizzle the chipotle ranch dressing over the ingredients, adding as much or as little as you prefer.
5. Roll the Burritos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom, securing all the fillings inside.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Cut the burritos in half if desired and serve with extra chipotle ranch dressing or your favorite salsa on the side.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
• Cook time: 15-20 minutes
• Total time: 25-30 minutes

Variations

• Grilled Veggie Version: For a vegetarian version, skip the chicken and use grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and onions. Marinate the veggies in the same chipotle ranch dressing for extra flavor.
• Spicy Kick: If you want extra heat, add sliced jalapeños or a spoonful of hot sauce to your burrito.
• Cheese Options: Feel free to use your favorite cheese or a combination of cheeses like pepper jack for an extra spicy twist.
• Add Avocado: Add slices of creamy avocado for a cool contrast to the heat of the chipotle ranch dressing.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you only have leftover fillings, store them separately for longer freshness.
• Reheating: To reheat, wrap the burrito in foil and warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until heated through. You can also reheat the fillings separately and assemble the burritos again.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate the chicken and prepare the other fillings in advance. Store the chicken separately and assemble the burritos when you’re ready to eat.

Can I use a different type of tortilla?

Yes, you can use whole wheat, gluten-free, or spinach tortillas depending on your preferences or dietary needs.

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Yes, chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and will be even juicier, though they may take a little longer to cook.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.

Can I freeze these burritos?

Yes, you can freeze assembled burritos. Wrap them tightly in foil and store them in a freezer-safe container. They will last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.

How can I make the burrito spicier?

Add extra chipotle ranch dressing, sliced jalapeños, or some hot sauce to the burrito filling for more heat.

Can I substitute the rice for something else?

Yes, you can use quinoa, couscous, or even lettuce as a base instead of rice if you prefer a lower-carb option.

How do I make my burrito less messy to eat?

Be sure to warm the tortillas before assembling the burrito to prevent them from tearing. Also, don’t overstuff the burrito to make rolling it easier.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes, this recipe is great for meal prep. You can cook and store the chicken and other fillings separately and assemble the burritos throughout the week.

Can I make the chipotle ranch dressing from scratch?

Absolutely! You can make your own chipotle ranch dressing by mixing ranch dressing with a bit of chipotle chili powder or chipotle in adobo sauce for a smoky, spicy flavor.

Conclusion

The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a flavorful and customizable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With its smoky, spicy chicken, fresh veggies, and creamy ranch dressing, it’s sure to satisfy your cravings. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this burrito is a delicious, easy option that will quickly become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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