Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos Recipe

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, grilled burrito loaded with tender, juicy chicken marinated in smoky chipotle flavors, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh, zesty ingredients. These Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos are the ultimate fusion of bold flavors and comfort food, making them a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or game-day feasts.

This recipe is easy to follow and packed with wholesome ingredients, ensuring every bite is a burst of flavor. Whether you’re a burrito enthusiast or a casual food lover, this guide will show you how to create the perfect handheld meal in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Customizable: Adapt the fillings to suit your taste preferences.
2. Packed with Flavor: Smoky chipotle paired with creamy ranch creates a mouthwatering combination.
3. Meal-Prep Friendly: Make in advance and store for quick meals.
4. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings or casual dinners.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the chipotle in adobo sauce, olive oil, lime juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably up to 4 hours.

Step 2: Make the Chipotle Ranch Dressing

1. Mix the Ingredients: In a small bowl, whisk together the ranch dressing, chipotle in adobo sauce, lime juice, and smoked paprika. Adjust seasoning if needed.
2. Refrigerate: Cover and refrigerate until ready to use.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grates.
2. Cook the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C).
3. Rest and Slice: Transfer the chicken to a cutting board and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos

1. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the tortillas on a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable.
2. Layer the Fillings: Spread a layer of chipotle ranch dressing in the center of each tortilla. Add rice, black beans, grilled chicken strips, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
3. Fold the Burrito: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom to seal.

Step 5: Grill the Burritos

1. Heat the Grill: Lightly oil the grill or a grill pan and preheat to medium.
2. Grill the Burritos: Place the burritos seam-side down on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Slice and Plate: Slice the burritos in half diagonally and arrange them on a platter.
2. Serve with Dipping Sauce: Pair with extra chipotle ranch dressing, salsa, or guacamole on the side.

Tips for Perfect Burritos

1. Don’t Overfill: Too much filling can make the burritos difficult to roll and keep intact.
2. Seal Well: Use a touch of dressing to “glue” the edges of the tortilla.
3. Cook Evenly: Rotate the burritos while grilling for uniform crispiness.
4. Prep Ahead: Prepare components like rice and dressing in advance for quicker assembly.

Variations

1. Vegetarian Option

• Replace chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or roasted sweet potatoes.

2. Spicy Kick

• Add sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce for extra heat.

3. Low-Carb Version

• Use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas.

4. Breakfast Burrito Twist

• Swap chicken for scrambled eggs and add breakfast sausage or bacon.

5. Seafood Variation

• Use grilled shrimp or fish as the protein for a coastal-inspired flavor.

Health Benefits

1. Rich in Protein: Grilled chicken provides lean protein essential for muscle repair and growth.
2. Nutrient-Dense: Black beans, lettuce, and tomatoes add fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
3. Balanced Meal: Offers a good mix of carbs, protein, and healthy fats.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked chicken?

Yes! Shredded rotisserie chicken works great for a quick alternative.

What’s the best way to keep burritos from falling apart?

Ensure the tortilla is warm and pliable, don’t overfill, and roll tightly while sealing the edges.

Can I make these ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble and refrigerate burritos, then grill just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

1. Side Dishes: Pair with Mexican street corn, tortilla chips, or a fresh green salad.
2. Drinks: Serve with a refreshing margarita, lime soda, or horchata.
3. Dessert: Finish with churros, tres leches cake, or flan for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos are the perfect fusion of smoky, creamy, and savory flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla. Whether for a quick lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this recipe delivers on taste and satisfaction. Try it today, and watch it become a household favorite!

Yield: 4

Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos Recipe

Print

Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, grilled burrito loaded with tender, juicy chicken marinated in smoky chipotle flavors, creamy ranch dressing, and fresh, zesty ingredients. These Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos are the ultimate fusion of bold flavors and comfort food, making them a perfect choice for weeknight dinners, meal prepping, or game-day feasts.

Prep Time 20 minutes

Cook Time 20 minutes

Ingredients

• For the Chicken:
• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• ½ teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• For the Chipotle Ranch Sauce:
• ½ cup ranch dressing
• 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (adjust to taste), finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• For the Burritos:
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican-blend cheese
• ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
• ½ cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
• 1 medium tomato, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Optional toppings: sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. In a small bowl, mix the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Rub the spice mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Heat olive oil in a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
4. Remove from heat, let rest for 5 minutes, and then slice into thin strips.

2. Make the Chipotle Ranch Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix ranch dressing, chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, and honey. Stir until smooth. Adjust chipotle to your preferred spice level.

3. Assemble the Burritos

1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle ranch sauce down the center of the tortilla.
3. Add a layer of cooked rice, shredded cheese, black beans, corn, diced tomato, avocado slices, and grilled chicken. Sprinkle with fresh cilantro.

4. Wrap the Burritos

1. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling.
2. Roll the tortilla tightly from the bottom to the top to form a burrito.

5. Grill the Burritos

1. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Place the burritos seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.

6. Serve

Slice the burritos in half, drizzle with additional chipotle ranch sauce, and serve with sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce if desired.

Notes

• Meal Prep: Assemble the burritos in advance, wrap in foil, and reheat on a skillet or in the oven for a quick meal.
• Protein Swap: Substitute chicken with steak, shrimp, or tofu for a different twist.
• Vegetarian Option: Omit the chicken and add extra beans, rice, and veggies.