A Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla. Whether you’re craving a restaurant-style burrito at home or looking for a delicious meal prep idea, this recipe is easy to follow and packed with bold flavors.
The secret to this burrito’s incredible taste lies in three key elements:
- Grilled Chicken – Juicy, marinated chicken with a smoky, slightly spicy seasoning.
- Chipotle Ranch Sauce – A creamy, tangy, and mildly spicy sauce that elevates every bite.
- Crispy Tortilla – Lightly grilled to create a crunchy texture on the outside while keeping the inside soft and flavorful.
This recipe is customizable, allowing you to swap out ingredients based on your dietary needs and preferences. Whether you want to add extra spice, swap the protein, or make it vegetarian, we’ve got you covered!
In this guide, you’ll learn:
- The best ingredients to use for maximum flavor.
- Step-by-step instructions to make the perfect burrito.
- Customization ideas for different diets.
- Tips for making, storing, and reheating burritos.
- Answers to common questions about the recipe.
Ready to make a restaurant-quality burrito at home? Let’s dive into the ingredients!
Ingredients Overview
Before we start cooking, let’s break down the essential ingredients that make this burrito burst with flavor.
Essential Ingredients for the Burrito
Grilled Chicken Seasoning
The chicken is marinated in a blend of smoky and bold spices, which adds depth to the flavor. The key ingredients for the seasoning are:
✔ Chili Powder – Adds a warm, earthy spice.
✔ Cumin – Provides a slightly nutty, smoky flavor.
✔ Smoked Paprika – Enhances the smokiness of the chicken.
✔ Garlic Powder & Onion Powder – For a robust, aromatic taste.
✔ Lime Juice – Adds freshness and helps tenderize the meat.
Chipotle Ranch Sauce Components
This sauce is the star of the burrito, giving it a creamy and smoky kick. The ingredients include:
✔ Mayonnaise & Sour Cream – The creamy base for the sauce.
✔ Chipotle Powder or Adobo Sauce – Adds a signature smoky heat.
✔ Lime Juice & Fresh Cilantro – For a fresh, zesty contrast.
✔ Garlic & Onion Powder – Enhances the ranch-style flavor.
Tortilla and Filling Options
The best burritos have a variety of textures and flavors inside. Here’s what we’ll be using:
✔ Flour Tortillas – Large, soft tortillas that hold everything together.
✔ Cooked Rice – Cilantro lime rice is a great choice for extra flavor.
✔ Black Beans – Adds protein and a creamy texture.
✔ Cheese – Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack melts beautifully.
✔ Fresh Veggies – Tomatoes, lettuce, and red onion add crunch.
✔ Avocado – A creamy and nutritious addition.
Now that we have everything ready, it’s time to start cooking!
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Now that we have all the ingredients ready, let’s go through the step-by-step process of making this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito.
Step 1: Preparing the Grilled Chicken
The grilled chicken is the heart of this burrito, and getting the seasoning and cooking right is key.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice
Instructions:
- Marinate the Chicken: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the lime juice to create a paste.
- Coat the Chicken: Rub this mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).
- Heat the Grill or Skillet: Preheat a grill or a heavy-bottomed skillet (like a cast-iron pan) over medium-high heat.
- Cook the Chicken:
- Place the chicken on the grill or skillet and cook for 5-6 minutes per side.
- Flip once, and cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Slice: Remove from heat and let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips or bite-sized cubes.
👉 Pro Tip: If you don’t have a grill, you can bake the marinated chicken at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, or air-fry it at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
Step 2: Making the Chipotle Ranch Sauce
This creamy, smoky, and slightly spicy sauce takes the burrito to the next level.
Ingredients for Chipotle Ranch Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder (or 1 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
Instructions:
- Mix the Ingredients: In a bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, chipotle powder (or adobo sauce), garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Taste and Adjust: If you want more heat, add extra chipotle powder or adobo sauce. If you want it milder, add more sour cream.
- Chill the Sauce: Let the sauce sit in the fridge for 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
👉 Pro Tip: This sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days and is also great for dipping fries, tacos, or salads!
Step 3: Assembling the Burrito
Now comes the fun part—putting everything together!
Ingredients for Assembling the Burrito:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked cilantro lime rice (or plain rice)
- 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Chipotle Ranch Sauce (from Step 2)
- Sliced grilled chicken (from Step 1)
Instructions:
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat each tortilla in a dry skillet for 10-15 seconds per side to make them more pliable.
- Spread the Sauce: Place a large tortilla on a flat surface and spread a generous amount of chipotle ranch sauce in the center.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Start with cilantro lime rice and black beans as the base.
- Add grilled chicken slices.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, and avocado.
- Top with a little more chipotle ranch sauce and fresh cilantro.
- Fold the Burrito:
- Fold in the sides first.
- Roll it up tightly from the bottom, making sure the filling stays intact.
👉 Pro Tip: If your burrito feels too full, gently press down on the fillings before rolling it up to ensure a snug wrap.
Step 4: Grilling the Burrito for a Crispy Finish
To get that perfectly golden, crispy tortilla, follow these steps:
Instructions:
- Heat a Skillet: Place a pan over medium heat and melt 1 tbsp butter (or use cooking spray).
- Grill the Burrito: Place the burrito seam-side down in the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip and Repeat: Carefully flip the burrito and grill the other side for another 1-2 minutes.
- Remove and Serve: Once both sides are crispy, take the burrito off the heat, slice it in half, and serve warm.
👉 Pro Tip: For extra crispiness, press the burrito down lightly with a spatula while grilling.
Customization and Variations
One of the best things about this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is how versatile it is! You can customize it to fit your dietary preferences, spice tolerance, or simply change things up based on what you have at home.
Protein Alternatives (Steak, Shrimp, or Veggie Options)
If you want to swap the grilled chicken, here are some fantastic alternatives:
1. Grilled Steak Burrito
- Use flank steak or sirloin, marinated with the same seasoning as the chicken.
- Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side (medium-rare) and slice thinly before adding to the burrito.
2. Chipotle Shrimp Burrito
- Toss shrimp in chili powder, cumin, and lime juice.
- Cook in a hot pan with a little olive oil for 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Vegetarian or Vegan Burrito
- Replace the chicken with:
- Grilled tofu or tempeh (seasoned and grilled like the chicken).
- Sautéed mushrooms and bell peppers for a hearty texture.
- Extra beans (black beans, pinto beans, or refried beans).
- Jackfruit or plant-based meat alternatives for a pulled meat texture.
👉 Pro Tip: If making a vegan burrito, swap the chipotle ranch sauce for vegan mayo + plant-based yogurt.
Spice Level Adjustments
This recipe has a mild-medium spice level, but you can easily adjust the heat to your preference.
To Make It Spicier:
🔥 Add extra chipotle powder or adobo sauce to the ranch dressing.
🔥 Use hot salsa or spicy shredded cheese.
🔥 Include diced jalapeños or pickled habaneros inside the burrito.
To Make It Milder:
🌿 Reduce or omit the chipotle powder in the sauce.
🌿 Swap smoked paprika for regular paprika (less smoky heat).
🌿 Use mild cheese (like mozzarella or Monterey Jack).
Adding Extra Toppings and Sides
Want to make your burrito even more exciting? Try these add-ons:
Crunchy Additions:
✔ Crushed tortilla chips for an extra crunch inside the burrito.
✔ Shredded cabbage instead of lettuce for more texture.
Extra Flavor Boosters:
✔ Pickled red onions for a tangy kick.
✔ A squeeze of fresh lime for brightness.
✔ Roasted corn for sweetness.
Tasty Sides to Serve With Your Burrito:
- Mexican Rice – A perfect side dish to complement the flavors.
- Guacamole & Chips – A classic pairing.
- Elote (Mexican Street Corn) – Sweet, smoky, and creamy.
- Fresh Pico de Gallo – Adds freshness and balance.
👉 Looking for more delicious snack ideas? Try these Cheesy Pepperoni Pizza Roll-Ups for a crispy, bite-sized treat!
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
A Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides and drinks can elevate your meal to a whole new level. Here are some perfect pairings to complement your burrito.
Best Side Dishes to Complement the Burrito
A burrito is hearty and filling, but adding a side dish brings variety and balance to your plate.
1. Cilantro Lime Rice 🌿🍚
A fresh and zesty rice dish that pairs perfectly with the burrito. To make it:
- Cook 1 cup of white rice and let it cool slightly.
- Stir in 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote) 🌽🔥
A creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy corn-on-the-cob dish.
- Grill corn until slightly charred.
- Spread with a mix of mayo, lime juice, chili powder, and crumbled Cotija cheese.
3. Loaded Nachos 🧀🥑
For a fun twist, serve crispy tortilla chips topped with:
✔ Melted cheese
✔ Black beans
✔ Jalapeños
✔ Fresh pico de gallo
✔ A drizzle of chipotle ranch sauce
4. Black Bean Salad 🥗
A simple, protein-packed salad to lighten up the meal.
- Mix black beans, diced tomatoes, red onion, corn, and avocado.
- Dress with lime juice, olive oil, and cumin.
5. Guacamole & Salsa with Chips 🥑🌶️
No Mexican-inspired meal is complete without guacamole and salsa!
- Guacamole: Mashed avocado + lime juice + diced onion + cilantro + salt.
- Salsa: Chopped tomatoes + jalapeños + onion + lime juice + salt.
Beverage Pairings
Pair your burrito with a refreshing drink to balance the spices and richness.
🍹 Classic Margarita – A tequila-based drink with lime juice and a salted rim.
🥤 Horchata – A sweet, creamy rice-based drink with cinnamon.
🍺 Mexican Beer – Light beers like Corona, Modelo, or Pacifico pair well.
🥤 Agua Fresca – Fresh fruit-infused water (mango, watermelon, or hibiscus).
Pair your burrito with:
- Cilantro lime rice for extra flavor.
- Guacamole and chips for a classic combo.
- Dubai Chocolate Bar Recipe for a decadent dessert!
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Want to make these burritos ahead of time for quick meals? Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat them properly!
How to Store Leftover Burritos
If you have extra burritos, follow these steps for proper storage:
1️⃣ Wrap each burrito tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.
2️⃣ Refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.
3️⃣ If storing sauce separately, keep it in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
How to Freeze Burritos for Meal Prep
Burritos freeze well, making them perfect for grab-and-go meals.
✅ Step 1: Let the burritos cool to room temperature before wrapping.
✅ Step 2: Wrap each burrito tightly in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag.
✅ Step 3: Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
How to Reheat a Burrito Properly
To keep your burrito from getting soggy, follow these reheating methods:
🔥 In the Oven (Best Method)
- Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Place the burrito (still wrapped in foil) on a baking sheet.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.
🌯 In a Skillet (For a Crispy Finish)
- Unwrap the burrito and place it in a hot skillet over medium heat.
- Cover and cook for 2-3 minutes per side until crispy.
⚡ In the Microwave (Fastest Option)
- Unwrap the burrito and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
- Cover with a damp paper towel.
- Microwave for 1-2 minutes, flipping halfway.
👉 Pro Tip: If microwaving a frozen burrito, let it thaw in the fridge overnight first for even heating.
Expert Tips for the Perfect Burrito
Want to make your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito just like the pros? Here are some chef-approved techniques to improve taste, texture, and presentation!
1. Choosing the Right Tortilla 🌯
✔ Size Matters: Use large (10-12 inch) flour tortillas to hold all the ingredients without tearing.
✔ Warm It Up: Heat your tortilla in a dry pan or microwave for 10-15 seconds to make it soft and easy to roll.
✔ Avoid Overstuffing: Too much filling can cause the burrito to break. Stick to 1-1.5 cups of filling per burrito.
2. How to Prevent a Soggy Burrito 🚫🌯
Nobody likes a soggy burrito! Here’s how to keep it fresh and crispy:
🔥 Drain Excess Moisture: Pat dry ingredients like lettuce, tomatoes, or beans to avoid excess liquid.
🔥 Use a Layering Strategy: Place rice and beans first to absorb any juices, followed by chicken, cheese, and fresh toppings last.
🔥 Crisp It Up: Always grill the burrito in a skillet for a golden, crispy texture.
3. Getting the Best Grill Marks 🔥
A crispy, golden-brown burrito not only looks better but also adds flavor!
✔ Use Butter or Oil: Brush a little butter or cooking spray on the burrito before grilling.
✔ Press It Down: Use a spatula or a heavy pan to gently press down while grilling for even browning.
✔ Keep the Heat Medium: A medium heat setting ensures the tortilla crisps up without burning.
4. Balancing Flavors for the Perfect Bite 😋
A great burrito has a balance of flavors and textures.
✅ Sweetness: Add grilled corn or a touch of honey in the sauce.
✅ Creaminess: Avocado, sour cream, or melted cheese adds a smooth, rich texture.
✅ Crunch: Fresh lettuce, crispy tortilla chips, or pickled onions for a contrast in texture.
✅ Acidity: A squeeze of fresh lime juice cuts through the richness and enhances the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Did they stop making the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito?
Yes, Taco Bell officially discontinued the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito as part of a menu refresh to introduce new items. This decision was confirmed by a Taco Bell representative, stating that the removal was necessary to make room for new innovations on the menu.
Is the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito healthy?
The healthiness of the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito depends on individual dietary preferences and nutritional goals. While it offers protein from grilled chicken and contains vegetables, it also includes components like cheese and sauces that add to its calorie and fat content. For a healthier version, consider making a homemade burrito where you can control the ingredients and portions, such as using whole-grain tortillas, lean proteins, and adding more vegetables.
What does Chipotle put in their burritos?
Chipotle’s burritos are customizable, allowing customers to choose from a variety of ingredients. A typical burrito includes:
Base: Cilantro-lime rice (white or brown).
Beans: Black beans or pinto beans.
Protein: Options like grilled chicken, steak, carnitas (pork), barbacoa (beef), sofritas (spicy tofu), or vegetables.
Salsas: Choices include fresh tomato salsa, roasted chili-corn salsa, tomatillo-green chili salsa, and tomatillo-red chili salsa.
Toppings: Shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, and fajita vegetables (sautéed peppers and onions).
These ingredients allow for a personalized burrito experience tailored to individual tastes.
4. What was in the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito at Taco Bell?
The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito from Taco Bell featured:
Grilled Chicken: Marinated and grilled for a smoky flavor.
Fiesta Strips: Crispy red tortilla strips adding crunch.
Avocado Ranch Sauce: A creamy sauce with avocado flavor.
Chipotle Sauce: Providing a smoky and mildly spicy kick.
Lettuce and Tomatoes: Fresh vegetables for texture and freshness.
Shredded Cheddar Cheese: Melted for added richness.
Flour Tortilla: Soft tortilla wrapping all the ingredients.
This combination offered a blend of flavors and textures that made it a popular menu item.
These FAQs provide insights into the status of the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito, its nutritional considerations, Chipotle’s burrito ingredients, and the specific components of Taco Bell’s discontinued burrito.
This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is packed with bold flavors, creamy sauce, and a satisfying crunch. Whether you’re making it for a quick meal or meal prepping for the week, it’s a must-try recipe!
Want more restaurant-style burritos? Stay tuned for our 10-Step Carrot Cake Roll for a deliciously spiced dessert option.
Happy cooking! 🌯🔥
Conclusion
The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a flavor-packed, satisfying meal that combines smoky grilled chicken, creamy chipotle ranch sauce, fresh veggies, and melted cheese—all wrapped in a warm, crispy tortilla. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch, meal prep, or a family dinner, this burrito is an easy and customizable recipe that can be tailored to suit different tastes and dietary preferences.
By following the step-by-step instructions, you can recreate a restaurant-quality burrito at home while adjusting spice levels, adding your favorite toppings, or even swapping out the protein for steak, shrimp, or a vegetarian option. Plus, with meal prep and freezing tips, you can always have a delicious burrito ready to go whenever hunger strikes!
Even though Taco Bell has discontinued their version of this burrito, you now have the ultimate homemade recipe to bring it back into your kitchen. So fire up your skillet, grab your ingredients, and enjoy the bold and creamy flavors of this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito! 🌯🔥😋
Irresistible & Ultimate Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito
Equipment
- ✔ Grill pan or skillet – For grilling the chicken
- ✔ Mixing bowls – For marinating chicken and preparing sauce
- ✔ Whisk – To mix the chipotle ranch sauce
- ✔ Cutting board & knife – For chopping vegetables and slicing chicken
- ✔ Tongs – To flip the chicken while grilling
- ✔ Spatula – To press the burrito while grilling
- ✔ Measuring cups & spoons – For accurate ingredient portions
Ingredients
- For the Grilled Chicken:
- 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- For the Chipotle Ranch Sauce:
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup sour cream
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tsp chipotle chili powder or 1 tbsp adobo sauce from canned chipotle peppers
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp onion powder
- ¼ tsp salt
- For the Burrito Assembly:
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked cilantro lime rice or plain rice
- 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- ½ cup diced tomatoes
- ½ cup shredded lettuce
- ¼ cup diced red onion
- ½ avocado sliced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
- 1 tbsp butter for grilling the burritos
Instructions
- Step 1: Prepare the Grilled Chicken
- Mix the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and lime juice.
- Coat the Chicken: Rub the seasoning all over the chicken breasts. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor).
- Grill the Chicken: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest & Slice: Remove from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, then slice into strips.
- Step 2: Make the Chipotle Ranch Sauce
- Whisk Together: In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, cilantro, chipotle powder (or adobo sauce), garlic powder, onion powder, and salt.
- Adjust & Chill: Taste and adjust the spice level as needed. Let it sit in the fridge for 15 minutes for the flavors to blend.
- Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
- Warm the Tortillas: Heat each tortilla in a dry skillet for 10-15 seconds per side to make them pliable.
- Layer the Fillings: Spread chipotle ranch sauce, then add rice, black beans, grilled chicken, cheese, tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, avocado, and fresh cilantro.
- Roll the Burrito: Fold in the sides first, then roll it up tightly from the bottom.
- Step 4: Grill the Burrito
- Heat a Pan: Melt 1 tbsp butter in a skillet over medium heat.
- Grill the Burrito: Place it seam-side down and cook for 1-2 minutes until golden brown. Flip and cook the other side.
- Serve & Enjoy: Slice in half and serve with extra chipotle ranch sauce.
Notes
✔ For a vegetarian version, replace the chicken with grilled tofu or sautéed mushrooms.
✔ Make-ahead tip: Store burritos wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.