When it comes to quick and delicious meals, Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos are a top choice for many. These burritos combine the creamy texture of avocado, the tangy flavor of ranch dressing, and the savory taste of seasoned chicken, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla. This delightful combination not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a nutritious and filling meal.

Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos have gained immense popularity due to their versatility and ease of preparation. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, these burritos are loved by both kids and adults. They can be customized with a variety of ingredients, making them suitable for different dietary preferences. Whether you’re a fan of classic recipes or looking to try something new, these burritos are a great addition to your meal rotation.

From a nutritional standpoint, these burritos offer a balanced meal with a good mix of proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables. Avocados are rich in heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and essential vitamins. Chicken provides lean protein, while the fresh vegetables add fiber and essential nutrients. Overall, Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos are not just delicious but also a healthy choice for those looking to enjoy a nutritious meal.

For more information on the history and variations of burritos, you can visit the Burrito Wikipedia page. To explore more healthy avocado recipes, check out this Avocado Recipes Pinterest board.

Ingredients Breakdown

Creating the perfect Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• 2 cups cooked shredded chicken: You can prepare this by either grilling or baking chicken breasts. Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor, while baking is convenient and keeps the chicken moist. To grill, marinate the chicken in olive oil and your favorite spices, then grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. To bake, season the chicken and bake at 375°F for 20-25 minutes, then shred.
• 1 avocado, diced: Choose ripe avocados that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy. To store, keep uncut avocados at room temperature. Once cut, sprinkle with lime juice and refrigerate in an airtight container to prevent browning.
• 1/4 cup ranch dressing: You can use store-bought ranch for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste. Homemade ranch can be made with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, garlic powder, onion powder, dill, chives, parsley, and a splash of lemon juice.
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes add a juicy, tangy element. Roma or cherry tomatoes are ideal for their firm texture and flavor.
• 1/4 cup diced red onion: Red onions provide a sharp contrast to the creamy avocado and ranch. If the taste is too strong, soak them in cold water for a few minutes before dicing.
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness. Ensure the cilantro is thoroughly washed and dried before chopping.
• 1 lime, juiced: Lime juice not only enhances the flavors but also helps keep the avocado from browning.
• Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all ingredients.
• 4 large flour tortillas: The base of the burritos. Warm them up before filling to make them more pliable.
• 1 cup shredded lettuce: Adds crunch and freshness. Iceberg or romaine lettuce works well.
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese melts beautifully and adds a rich, tangy flavor.

Nutritional Information:

• Chicken: High in protein and low in fat, providing essential amino acids.
• Avocado: Rich in healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins C, E, K, and B-6.
• Ranch Dressing: Store-bought versions may be higher in calories and fat; homemade can be healthier with fresh ingredients.
• Tomatoes: Low in calories, high in vitamins C and K.
• Red Onion: Contains antioxidants and vitamins B and C.
• Cilantro: Adds vitamins A, C, and K.
• Lime Juice: High in vitamin C.
• Lettuce: Low in calories, high in fiber and vitamins A and K.
• Cheddar Cheese: Provides calcium and protein but should be used in moderation due to its fat content.

For more tips on selecting avocados, check out this Avocado Wikipedia page. To find more chicken recipe inspirations, visit Chicken Recipes on Pinterest.

Preparing the Chicken

To ensure your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos are delicious and flavorful, it’s important to prepare the chicken correctly. Here are some methods and tips:

Various Methods:

• Grilling: Grilled chicken adds a smoky flavor that enhances the burritos. To prepare, marinate chicken breasts in olive oil, lime juice, and spices. Grill on medium-high heat for about 6-7 minutes per side, until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before shredding or slicing.
• Baking: Baking is a simple and efficient way to cook chicken. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning. Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Allow the chicken to cool slightly before shredding.
• Shredding: Shredded chicken is ideal for burritos. You can use a fork to pull the cooked chicken apart into thin pieces. This method ensures the chicken mixes well with other ingredients and is easy to wrap.

Seasoning Suggestions:

• Taco Seasoning: A blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and oregano can add a burst of flavor. You can make your own seasoning mix or use a store-bought version.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning with salt and pepper is essential. Adjust to taste, ensuring the chicken is well-seasoned without being overpowering.

Cooking Tips to Keep the Chicken Juicy and Flavorful:

• Marinate: Marinating the chicken in a mixture of lime juice, olive oil, and spices for at least 30 minutes before cooking can help infuse it with flavor and keep it moist.
• Resting Period: After cooking, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before cutting or shredding. This helps retain the juices and keeps the chicken tender.
• Proper Temperature: Avoid overcooking by ensuring the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Using a meat thermometer can help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time.

For more on cooking techniques, visit the Cooking Techniques Wikipedia page. For ideas on seasoning and marinating, check out this Pinterest board on Cooking Tips.

Making the Filling

Creating the perfect filling for your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos involves combining a variety of fresh and flavorful ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide to ensure everything is mixed evenly and tastes amazing:

Combining Ingredients:

1. Chicken: Start with your prepared, shredded chicken. This forms the base of your filling, providing a hearty and savory component.
2. Avocado: Dice the avocado into small, bite-sized pieces. This adds a creamy texture and rich flavor to the filling.
3. Ranch Dressing: Add 1/4 cup of ranch dressing. Whether you use homemade or store-bought, this ingredient brings a tangy, herb-infused taste.
4. Tomatoes: Dice the tomatoes finely. They add a juicy and slightly acidic balance to the richness of the avocado and ranch.
5. Red Onion: Dice the red onion into small pieces. The sharpness of the onion adds a nice contrast to the creamy and tangy elements.
6. Cilantro: Chop the fresh cilantro finely. It adds a burst of freshness and a slight citrusy note.
7. Lime Juice: Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture. This helps to keep the avocado from browning and adds a zesty kick.
8. Salt and Pepper: Season to taste with salt and pepper. These basic seasonings help to enhance all the other flavors.

Tips for Mixing and Ensuring Even Distribution:

• Gently Fold: Use a spatula to gently fold the ingredients together. This helps to keep the avocado pieces intact and evenly distributes the ranch dressing.
• Mixing Bowl: Use a large mixing bowl to ensure there’s enough space to combine everything without spilling.
• Taste and Adjust: After mixing, taste the filling. Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or lime juice if needed.
• Even Distribution: Make sure that each bite will have a bit of every ingredient by ensuring the chicken, avocado, and other components are well-mixed.

By carefully combining these ingredients, you create a delicious and balanced filling that makes every bite of your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos flavorful and satisfying.

Assembling the Burritos

Warming the Tortillas: Microwave vs. Skillet

• Microwave: Place the tortillas on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Microwave for 20-30 seconds until soft and pliable. This method is quick and convenient.
• Skillet: Heat a dry skillet over medium heat. Warm each tortilla for about 15-20 seconds on each side. This method adds a slight toasty flavor and ensures the tortillas are evenly warmed.

Step-by-Step Assembly Process:

1. Lay Out the Tortilla: Place a warmed tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Add the Filling: Spoon an even portion of the chicken avocado ranch mixture down the center of the tortilla. Aim to keep the filling towards the middle to prevent overstuffing.
3. Top with Extras: Add shredded lettuce and cheddar cheese on top of the filling. These ingredients add crunch and a creamy texture.
4. Fold the Sides: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling to cover it partially.
5. Roll Up: Starting from the bottom, roll the tortilla tightly while keeping the sides tucked in. Continue rolling until you reach the top edge.

Tips for Rolling Burritos to Prevent Leaks:

• Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing the burrito makes it difficult to roll and more likely to leak. Keep the filling to a moderate amount.
• Tuck and Roll: Tuck the sides in firmly and roll tightly. This helps keep the filling contained.
• Secure the Ends: If needed, you can use a toothpick to hold the burrito together until serving.

By following these steps and tips, you’ll create perfectly rolled Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos that are easy to handle and enjoy without any mess. For more detailed techniques on wrapping burritos, check out this Burrito Wrapping Guide on Pinterest. Additionally, you can learn more about different tortilla types on the Tortilla Wikipedia page.

Cooking the Burritos

Cooking on a Skillet vs. Baking

• Skillet: Cooking your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos on a skillet is a quick way to achieve a crispy exterior. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Place the burritos seam-side down to start, which helps to seal them shut. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. This method ensures a deliciously crunchy texture.
• Baking: Baking is a great option if you’re making multiple burritos at once. Preheat your oven to 375°F. Place the burritos on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, seam-side down. Lightly brush the tops with olive oil or spray with cooking spray. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the burritos are crispy and heated through. This method is less hands-on and great for batch cooking.

How to Achieve a Crispy Exterior

• Oil or Butter: Use a light coating of oil or butter on the skillet or brush the burritos lightly before baking. This helps to achieve a golden, crispy exterior.
• Medium-High Heat: Ensure the skillet or oven is preheated to medium-high heat. This is crucial for crisping the outside without drying out the inside.
• Pressing: When cooking on a skillet, press down on the burritos gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the pan, promoting an evenly crispy texture.

Reheating Tips for Pre-Made Burritos

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the burritos on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to prevent drying out. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through. For a crispy finish, remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of heating.
• Microwave: For a quick reheat, wrap the burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. While this method is faster, it may result in a less crispy exterior.
• Skillet: Reheat on a skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side. This method helps retain the crispy texture.

For more tips on cooking techniques, visit this Cooking Techniques Pinterest board. To explore different methods of achieving crispy textures, check out the Cooking Techniques Wikipedia page.

Serving Suggestions

Accompaniments

To enhance the flavors of your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos, consider serving them with these delicious accompaniments:

• Sour Cream: Adds a creamy, tangy element that pairs perfectly with the savory burritos.
• Salsa: Choose from mild, medium, or hot varieties to add a fresh, zesty kick. Homemade salsa, with fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, can elevate the dish.
• Guacamole: The rich, creamy texture of guacamole complements the burritos beautifully. For a homemade version, mash avocados and mix with lime juice, salt, diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.

Presentation Ideas

• Slice and Display: Cut the burritos in half diagonally and arrange them on a platter. This not only makes them easier to eat but also showcases the colorful filling.
• Garnish: Sprinkle chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime over the top for a fresh, vibrant presentation. Adding a small dollop of sour cream and a few slices of jalapeño on the side can also enhance the visual appeal.

Pairing with Side Dishes

Pair your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos with these side dishes for a complete and satisfying meal:

• Mexican Rice: A flavorful side dish that complements the burritos well. It can be easily prepared with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices.
• Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add a hearty, nutritious component to the meal.
• Corn Salad: A fresh corn salad with bell peppers, red onion, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the rich burritos.

Variations and Customizations

Alternative Ingredients

• Different Cheeses: While cheddar cheese is a popular choice, you can experiment with other types such as Monterey Jack for a milder flavor or pepper jack for a bit of heat. Queso fresco can also add a fresh, slightly tangy taste.
• Adding Beans: Incorporate black beans or pinto beans for added protein and fiber. These beans blend well with the other ingredients and enhance the burrito’s nutritional value.
• Adding Corn: Fresh or roasted corn kernels can add a sweet and crunchy texture to your burritos. This is especially great in the summer when corn is in season.

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

• Vegetarian: Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables such as sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms. Adding beans or tofu can also provide a good source of protein.
• Vegan: Use vegan ranch dressing and replace the cheese with a plant-based alternative. For the filling, opt for ingredients like black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, avocado, and sautéed vegetables. Ensure your tortillas are also vegan-friendly.

Spicy Variations

• Hot Sauce: Add a splash of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken avocado ranch mixture for a spicy kick. Popular options include Sriracha, Cholula, or homemade habanero sauce.
• Spicy Ranch: Mix some cayenne pepper, chipotle powder, or hot sauce into your ranch dressing to create a spicy ranch variation. This adds a fiery twist while maintaining the creamy texture.
• Jalapeños: Incorporate fresh or pickled jalapeño slices into the burrito filling for a crunchy and spicy element.

By exploring these variations and customizations, you can create a personalized version of Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos that caters to different tastes and dietary preferences. For more inspiration on alternative ingredients, visit the Healthy Burrito Ideas on Pinterest. To learn more about different types of cheeses and their uses, check out the Cheese Wikipedia page.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos fresh and delicious for later, proper storage is key:

• Refrigeration: Wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep them airtight. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Containers: Alternatively, place the wrapped burritos in an airtight container for added protection against moisture and odors.

Best Methods for Reheating

Reheating your burritos correctly ensures they remain tasty and satisfying:

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F. Place the burritos on a baking sheet and cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture. Bake for 10-15 minutes, removing the foil in the last 5 minutes to crisp up the exterior.
• Microwave: For a quick reheat, wrap the burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. This method is fast but may not maintain the crispiness of the tortilla.
• Skillet: Reheat on a non-stick skillet over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes per side. This method helps retain the burrito’s crispy texture.

Freezing Tips and How to Avoid Sogginess

Freezing burritos is a great way to have a ready-to-eat meal on hand:

• Preparation: Before freezing, let the burritos cool completely to prevent condensation. Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freezing: Burritos can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Avoiding Sogginess: To avoid sogginess when reheating, bake the frozen burritos directly from the freezer at 375°F for 25-30 minutes. This helps keep the tortillas crisp.

Health Benefits and Nutritional Information

Caloric Content and Macro Breakdown

A typical Chicken Avocado Ranch Burrito contains approximately 320 calories per serving. Here’s a breakdown of the macronutrients:

• Protein: 25 grams, mainly from the chicken and cheese.
• Fat: 15 grams, sourced from the avocado, ranch dressing, and cheese.
• Carbohydrates: 28 grams, provided by the tortilla and vegetables.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

• Chicken: A lean source of protein, chicken helps build and repair muscle tissue. It’s also rich in essential amino acids.
• Avocado: Packed with monounsaturated fats, avocados support heart health and provide a good dose of vitamins E, K, and C.
• Ranch Dressing: While ranch can be high in fats, using a homemade or low-fat version can reduce calorie intake. Ranch dressing made with Greek yogurt offers probiotics and additional protein.
• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins C and K, tomatoes also provide antioxidants like lycopene, which has been linked to reduced cancer risk.
• Cilantro: This herb is a good source of vitamins A, C, and K, and contains antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation.
• Lime Juice: High in vitamin C, lime juice supports the immune system and enhances iron absorption from plant-based foods.

How to Make the Recipe Healthier

• Low-Fat Ranch: Substitute traditional ranch dressing with a low-fat or Greek yogurt-based version to cut down on calories and saturated fat.
• Whole-Wheat Tortillas: Use whole-wheat tortillas instead of white flour tortillas to increase fiber intake and improve digestive health.
• Extra Veggies: Add more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content of the burritos.
• Reduce Cheese: Use a smaller amount of cheese or opt for a low-fat variety to lower the overall fat content.

FAQs

Common Questions About Preparation and Storage

1. How do I store leftover burritos?
   • Wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the burritos for up to 3 months.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
   • Substitute regular flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas. Ensure all other ingredients, like ranch dressing and seasoning, are certified gluten-free.
3. How do I prevent avocados from browning?
   • Squeeze fresh lime juice over the diced avocado to slow down the browning process. Store any unused avocado in an airtight container with a piece of onion to further reduce browning.

Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos

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• Author: Naomi
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 4 burritos

Pin Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Enjoy a delicious and nutritious meal with these Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos. Combining juicy shredded chicken, creamy avocado, tangy ranch dressing, and fresh vegetables, these burritos are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

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Ingredients

2 cups cooked shredded chicken

1 avocado, diced

1/4 cup ranch dressing

1/4 cup diced tomatoes

1/4 cup diced red onion

1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

1 lime, juiced

Salt and pepper, to taste

4 large flour tortillas

1 cup shredded lettuce

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Sour cream, for serving

Salsa, for serving

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked shredded chicken, diced avocado, ranch dressing, diced tomatoes, diced red onion, chopped cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet until soft and pliable.

Divide the chicken avocado ranch mixture evenly among the tortillas, spreading it down the center of each tortilla.

Top each tortilla with shredded lettuce and shredded cheddar cheese.

Fold the sides of the tortillas over the filling, then roll them up tightly to form burritos.

Serve the Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos with sour cream and salsa on the side for dipping or drizzling.

Notes

• Customization: Feel free to customize your burritos by adding black beans, corn, or switching up the cheese for something like pepper jack if you enjoy a little heat.
• Make-Ahead: These burritos can be made ahead of time. Wrap them individually in foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze the burritos for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat burritos in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes, or in a skillet for about 3-4 minutes per side. To reheat quickly, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes.
• Healthier Options: Use low-fat ranch dressing and whole-wheat tortillas to make the recipe healthier. Adding more vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini can boost the fiber, vitamin, and mineral content.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Chicken
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 320 kcal per burrito