Chipotle Ranch Chicken Burrito

This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is the kind of hearty handheld meal that satisfies every craving—savory grilled chicken, tender rice, melting cheese, and a smoky chipotle ranch sauce all tucked inside a warm flour tortilla. It brings together the bold flavors of the Southwest with a creamy twist and is endlessly customizable for any night of the week.

I first made this when looking for a fun twist on taco night and now these burritos are my go to for family movie dinners and weekend meal prep. The spicy kick and creamy sauce are always a hit.

Ingredients

• Chipotle chili powder or adobo sauce: adds a deep smoky heat that is signature to this burrito choose a sauce with visible flecks of chipotle for best flavor
• Smoked paprika: delivers an earthy depth and is best when fresh bright in color and aromatic
• Ground cumin: gives that classic warmth always opt for whole seeds and toast for richer taste if possible
• Salt and black pepper: enhances all the flavors use kosher salt and freshly cracked pepper for optimal seasoning

For the Chipotle Ranch Sauce

• Ranch dressing: use your favorite brand for the creamiest finish look for ones with real buttermilk
• Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: brings bold heat and flavor finely chop for even blending
• Lime juice: adds zing that cuts richness freshly squeezed gives the brightest result
• Garlic powder: a simple boost for savory notes reach for garlic powder without added fillers
• Salt to taste: so you can balance the heat with creamy tanginess

For the Burrito Filling

• Grilled chicken sliced: choose boneless skinless thighs for juiciest results
• Fresh chopped tomatoes: select ripe and juicy tomatoes for best flavor
• Diced red onion: gives crunch and bite red onions offer just the right sharpness
• Fresh cilantro leaves: brightens and lifts every bite choose vibrant green leaves
• Jalapeño slices or chopped green chili (optional): for an extra spicy burst use fresh for maximum kick
• Lettuce or spinach (optional): to add freshness and a crisp texture
• Shredded cheese: cheddar Monterey Jack or Mexican blend all melt beautifully use freshly grated if possible
• Sliced avocado or a scoop of guacamole: for creaminess opt for soft ripe avocados or store bought guac in a pinch
• Cooked rice: white brown or cilantro lime rice use what you love or have leftover rice soaks up the sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Marinate the Chicken:

Whisk together olive oil lime juice garlic chipotle powder or adobo sauce paprika cumin salt and pepper until combined Set chicken in the mixture and turn to coat thoroughly Cover and refrigerate for at least thirty minutes The longer you marinate the more flavor you build into the chicken

Grill the Chicken:

Heat your grill or grill pan over medium high Once hot add marinated chicken and cook until you have golden grill marks and the meat is fully cooked through to an internal temperature of one hundred sixty five degrees Fahrenheit Let chicken rest for five minutes so juices stay inside then slice thinly

Blend the Chipotle Ranch Sauce:

In a blender combine ranch dressing chipotle peppers lime juice garlic powder and salt Blend on high until your sauce is creamy smooth Taste and add more chipotle or salt to match your spice preference

Assemble the Burrito:

Warm flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave so they are soft and pliable Lay out each tortilla and begin with a scoop of cooked rice if using Layer on grilled chicken tomatoes onion cilantro cheese lettuce and avocado Drizzle generously with chipotle ranch sauce Fold sides in then roll up tightly to seal Warm briefly for a melty finish if desired

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Guacamole is my absolute favorite add in for this burrito The creamy texture against the smoky spicy filling reminds me of summer outdoor grilling nights with friends We always have a bowl of extra guac on the side and somehow the burritos disappear faster

Storage Tips

Wrap any assembled burritos individually in foil or parchment and refrigerate for up to three days For longer storage freeze tightly wrapped burritos and reheat in the oven or microwave straight from the freezer The sauce stays creamy even after reheating

Ingredient Substitutions

No chicken on hand Use cooked steak or black beans for a vegetarian version If you cannot find chipotle in adobo substitute with smoked paprika plus a little hot sauce Greek yogurt can replace ranch for a lighter tangy sauce

Serving Suggestions

These burritos are a full meal on their own but a side of corn salad or roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully For gatherings set up a burrito bar so everyone can personalize with extra cheese lettuce or salsa

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Chipotle Burritos in Mexican American Cuisine

Grilled burritos are a crossover of classic Mexican and TexMex traditions drawing inspiration from Mission style burritos of California and the bold flavors of the Southwest The smoky chipotle ranch is a modern American addition that everyone seems to love

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?

Yes, you can marinate and grill the chicken in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and reheat it before assembling the burritos.

→ What can I use as a substitute for chipotle peppers?

You can use smoked paprika or a mix of paprika and chili powder if you're looking for a less smoky and spicy option. Alternatively, adobo sauce alone works well for an authentic flavor.

→ Can I make this burrito vegetarian?

Of course! Replace grilled chicken with grilled vegetables, black beans, or seasoned tofu. All the other ingredients can stay the same for a flavorful vegetarian burrito.

→ What type of tortillas work best?

Look for large, soft flour tortillas for the best fold and hold. You can also use whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas if preferred.

→ How do I properly wrap a burrito?

Start by folding the bottom edge up over the filling, then fold in the sides. Roll the burrito tightly while keeping the filling tucked in. Warm tortillas help make this easier.

→ Is there a way to make the burrito spicier?

Add extra chipotle peppers, drizzle with hot sauce, or include spicy jalapeño or serrano peppers in the filling for an extra kick.