Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

There’s something truly magical about gathering around the kitchen table with family and friends, sharing a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. My Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito recipe brings back fond memories of summer nights spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, where the aroma of spices mingled with laughter and love. This burrito isn’t just a meal — it’s an experience, a tapestry of flavors and textures that tells a story with every bite. The smokiness of grilled chicken, the zesty tang of chipotle ranch, and the comforting embrace of a warm tortilla combine to create a dish that’s as heartwarming as a hug from an old friend.

Why do I hold this recipe so dear? For starters, it’s a breeze to prepare, even on the busiest of days. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this recipe invites you into the world of home cooking with open arms. It’s an ideal choice for those family gatherings where you want to impress without stress. And let’s not forget the joy it brings — the kind of joy that can only be found in the simple act of sharing a delicious meal with the ones you love.

Why This Recipe Should Be on Your Table

This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito brings together the best of comforting and adventurous flavors, making it a must-have for your next meal:

1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of chipotle and ranch creates a taste that’s both smoky and tangy, elevating the grilled chicken to new heights. The nuances of the marinade with its smoked paprika and garlic powder come through in every bite, offering a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
2. Versatile Delight: Whether you’re serving it for a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, this burrito adapts effortlessly to any occasion. It can be dressed up with a side of fiesta rice or kept simple with a light salad.
3. Nostalgic Comfort: The warm, hearty ingredients evoke the cozy feeling of home-cooked meals from childhood. The soft tortilla cradles the filling much like a comforting embrace, making it a perfect choice for those who seek a taste of nostalgia in their meals.
4. Customizable: Perfect for picky eaters, you can easily adjust the fillings and spices to suit everyone’s taste preferences. You can add more veggies, swap out the cheese, or even use a different protein, such as tofu or shrimp, to cater to diverse dietary needs.

Kitchen Tools to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

To whip up these delightful burritos, you won’t need much — just a few trusty kitchen tools, much like the ones my grandma used when teaching me the joy of homemade cooking:

• Grill or Grill Pan: Essential for getting that perfect char on your chicken, which adds an authentic smoky flavor that complements the chipotle ranch dressing beautifully.
• Mixing Bowls: Ideal for preparing the marinade and keeping ingredients organized. Having everything prepped and ready to go makes the assembly process quick and efficient.
• Tongs: Useful for flipping the chicken on the grill, ensuring even cooking and that all-important grill mark.
• Sharp Knife: Necessary for slicing the chicken into strips, which makes for easy layering in the burrito.
• Measuring Spoons: Helps ensure the perfect balance of spices, so each component of the marinade can shine through.

How to Make This Recipe Easy Peasy

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

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This marinade is the heart of the recipe, infusing the chicken with robust flavors.
2. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor). The longer the chicken marinates, the more intense the flavor, so don’t rush this step if you have the time.
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill ensures the chicken cooks evenly without sticking.
4. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Try not to move the chicken too frequently to allow it to sear and lock in those juices.
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips. Resting the chicken helps retain its juices, making each bite succulent and tender.
6. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. This makes them easier to fold and less likely to tear.
7. Heat the black beans and rice if they are not already warm. Having warm fillings helps meld the flavors together once the burrito is assembled.
8. Lay each tortilla flat and spread 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle ranch dressing in the center. This dressing is what ties all the flavors together, adding a creamy, spicy kick.
9. Add a layer of rice, black beans, grilled chicken strips, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and corn (if using). The layering of ingredients ensures a bit of everything in each bite.
10. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added freshness. Cilantro adds a bright, fresh element that cuts through the richness of the cheese and dressing.
11. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. This technique helps keep all the delicious fillings secure.
12. Serve immediately or lightly grill the wrapped burrito for a crispy exterior. A quick turn on the grill adds a delightful crunch that elevates the eating experience.

Difficulty: Easy • Cuisine: Mexican-American • Preparation Time: 20 minutes • Cooking Time: 16 minutes • Total Time: 36 minutes • Calories: 450 • Servings: 4

Note: For a spicier kick, add more chipotle chili powder or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade. Adjust the heat level to suit your preference and those of your guests.

Health and Flavor Benefits of Ingredients

These Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos not only promise delightful flavors but also come with some surprising benefits:

• Chicken Breast: A lean source of protein that helps build and repair tissues. It’s also low in fat, making it a healthy choice for maintaining muscle mass.
• Lime Juice: Adds a burst of vitamin C and enhances the flavors of the marinade. It also acts as a natural tenderizer for the chicken, keeping it juicy.
• Black Beans: Packed with fiber and essential nutrients that promote digestive health. They’re also a great plant-based protein source, making this dish both filling and nutritious.
• Cilantro: Offers antioxidants and adds a fresh, herbal note to the dish. Its unique flavor profile brings a refreshing contrast to the smoky, spicy elements.

Tasty Pairings to Serve with This Easy Peasy Dish

These burritos are versatile companions to various beverages and dishes, making them perfect for any occasion:

• Margaritas: The citrusy tang complements the smoky flavors of the burrito. Opt for a classic lime margarita or a fruity variation to add a festive touch.
• Guacamole: Adds a creamy texture and balances out the heat with avocado’s natural coolness. Its rich, buttery flavor pairs perfectly with the burrito’s spiciness.
• Chips and Salsa: A classic side that adds crunch and a bit of extra spice. Choose a mild salsa for a subtle hint of heat or a habanero variety for those who love spice.
• Mexican Street Corn: Enhances the meal with sweet, spicy, and tangy notes. This popular side dish, known as elote, is a fantastic complement to the burrito’s flavors.

Storage Tips and How to Enjoy Leftovers the Easy Peasy Way

If you have leftovers, don’t worry! Here’s how to store and enjoy them:

• Refrigeration: Wrap each burrito in foil or plastic wrap and store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and makes them easy to grab for a quick meal.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the burritos individually wrapped in foil. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm them in the oven or microwave. Freezing does not compromise the flavor or texture, making this a great meal prep option.
• Reheating: To maintain texture, reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or until heated through. This keeps the tortilla crisp and the fillings warm and gooey.

Remember, the joy of home cooking lies in the love and care you put into each dish. The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is more than just a recipe — it’s an invitation to create memories around the table with those you cherish most. Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, may this dish bring warmth and happiness to your home, just as it has to mine.

Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

This delicious burrito combines spicy marinated chicken with fresh vegetables and creamy chipotle ranch dressing for a satisfying meal.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 30 minutes mins

Cook Time 16 minutes mins

Marinating Time 20 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr 6 minutes mins

Servings: 4 burritos

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 650

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

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

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
• 0.5 cup diced tomatoes
• 0.5 cup corn kernels optional
• 0.25 cup chopped cilantro optional
• 0.5 cup chipotle ranch dressing

Equipment

• Grill

Method

 

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).
3. Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.
6. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
7. Heat the black beans and rice if they are not already warm.
8. Lay each tortilla flat and spread 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle ranch dressing in the center.
9. Add a layer of rice, black beans, grilled chicken strips, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and corn (if using).
10. Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added freshness.
11. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
12. Serve immediately or lightly grill the wrapped burrito for a crispy exterior.

Notes

These burritos are perfect for a quick and flavorful meal. Customize with your favorite toppings and serve with salsa or guacamole for an extra kick.