This Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is packed with flavor! Juicy grilled chicken, creamy chipotle ranch sauce, and fresh veggies all rolled up in a soft tortilla make it a tasty meal.
You won’t believe how simple it is to whip up this burrito. I love making these when I want a quick dinner or a fun lunch. Add your favorite toppings, and enjoy every bite!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using boneless, skinless chicken breasts, but thighs work well too! They stay juicy and flavor-packed. If you’re looking for a quicker option, rotisserie chicken can be used; just shred it and skip the grilling step.
Chipotle Ranch Dressing: If you don’t have chipotle peppers, mix a bit of adobo sauce with ranch dressing for a smoky kick. You can also make it without chipotle for a milder flavor, or use Sriracha for a different spice level!
Tortillas: Flour tortillas are great for burritos because they hold up well. If you’re going for a healthier option, try whole wheat or corn tortillas, keeping in mind they may be a bit less pliable.
Cilantro and Onions: Chopped fresh cilantro adds brightness; if you dislike it, parsley is a good substitute! For onions, you can use green onions or skip them entirely for a simpler flavor.
How Do You Get Juicy Chicken Every Time?
Marinating chicken before cooking makes a big difference. In this recipe, the blend of spices and olive oil locks in moisture. It’s essential to not overcrowd the grill to ensure even cooking.
- Use medium-high heat for a nice sear without drying out the meat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps keep the juices inside!
Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For the Burrito:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/2 cup diced tomato
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup guacamole
- 1/3 cup chipotle ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
For Homemade Chipotle Ranch Dressing (optional):
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced (adjust to spice preference)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This burrito takes about 20 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare Chipotle Ranch Dressing (if making homemade):
In a small bowl, combine ranch dressing, minced chipotle peppers, and lime juice. Mix well and set aside. This will add that delicious chipotle flavor to your burrito!
2. Marinate the Chicken:
In a medium bowl, toss the chicken pieces with olive oil, chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Let it sit for a few minutes to enhance the flavor.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken pieces for 4-5 minutes per side or until fully cooked and slightly charred. Make sure it’s no longer pink in the center. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Warm Tortillas:
Warm the flour tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds to 1 minute on each side or until pliable. This helps them roll easier without tearing.
5. Assemble the Burritos:
Lay a tortilla flat and spread about 2 tablespoons of chipotle ranch dressing over the surface. Layer with a scoop of cooked rice, grilled chicken pieces, guacamole, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, tomato, and shredded cheese. Be careful not to overfill!
6. Roll the Burrito:
Fold the sides of the tortilla in and roll it tightly from the bottom up, ensuring the filling stays inside. Tuck in the sides as you roll to keep everything secure!
7. Grill the Burrito (optional):
For a crispy finish, place the burrito seam-side down on the grill pan or skillet over medium heat. Press gently and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is golden and has nice grill marks.
8. Serve:
Slice the burrito in half if desired, and serve with extra chipotle ranch dressing or guacamole on the side. Enjoy your juicy, flavorful Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito!
FAQ for Easy Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Recipe?
Absolutely! This is a great recipe for using up leftover grilled or rotisserie chicken. Just shred or chop the chicken and skip the marinating and grilling steps. You can add it directly to the burrito filling.
What Can I Use Instead of Ranch Dressing?
If you’re not a fan of ranch, you can substitute it with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy texture. You could also try avocado sauce or a yogurt-based chipotle sauce for a different spin!
How to Store Leftover Burritos?
Wrap leftover burritos in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or wrap them in foil and warm them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make These Burritos Vegetarian?
Sure! You can replace the chicken with grilled veggies, black beans, or tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the spices to complement your favorite veggies!
