The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos recipe offers a delicious homemade alternative to popular fast-food options like Taco Bell’s burritos. This copycat recipe was created to allow fans of the classic burrito to enjoy the flavors at home, with the added benefit of using fresh, customizable ingredients. The burrito combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and creamy chipotle ranch dressing, all wrapped in a warm tortilla, making it an irresistible and convenient meal option for any occasion. The recipe also allows for easy modifications to suit personal tastes.
Ingredients Overview
The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos require a mix of fresh and flavorful ingredients, each selected to create a balanced and satisfying meal. Key ingredients include:
- Grilled Chicken: Marinated for added flavor; can be substituted with grilled tofu or beef for variation.
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas are preferred for their pliability; whole wheat or low-carb options can be used.
- Chipotle Ranch Dressing: Adds a smoky, creamy kick; homemade versions allow for control over spice levels.
- Lettuce: Romaine provides a crisp texture; spinach or mixed greens can be alternatives.
- Additional Ingredients: Tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado enhance the burrito’s flavor and texture profile.
Homemade vs. Store-bought Dressings
Making avocado ranch and chipotle ranch dressings at home offers several advantages, including control over ingredient quality, the ability to adjust flavors, and avoiding preservatives found in store-bought options. Homemade dressings typically require simple ingredients like fresh avocados, mayonnaise, sour cream, lime juice, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, garlic, and various herbs and spices.
If you prefer store-bought options, you can find quality dressings in most grocery stores, such as those from brands like Hidden Valley, Litehouse, or Bolthouse Farms. Look for these in the refrigerated section for fresher, preservative-free options.
Step-by-Step Preparation and Serving
Preparing the Ingredients
Grilling and Seasoning the Chicken:
Begin by marinating the chicken to infuse it with flavor. A simple marinade of olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, and chili powder works well. Let the chicken sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, then grill it over medium-high heat until fully cooked, typically 6-8 minutes per side. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. Once cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into bite-sized pieces.
Prepping Lettuce, Tomatoes, and Other Vegetables:
While the chicken grills, prepare the vegetables. Rinse and dry the romaine lettuce, then chop it into thin strips for easy layering in the burrito. Dice the tomatoes into small cubes, ensuring they are evenly sized for uniform distribution. If using avocado, slice it just before assembly to prevent browning. Shredded cheese and other toppings should also be prepared at this stage.
Importance of Tortilla Warming for Assembly:
Warming the tortillas is a crucial step that makes them pliable, reducing the risk of tearing during assembly. You can warm tortillas directly on a skillet over medium heat for 15-30 seconds per side, in a microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for 20 seconds, or in the oven wrapped in foil for about 5 minutes at 350°F. Properly warmed tortillas ensure that the burrito is easy to roll and keeps its shape.
Assembling the Burritos
Step-by-Step Guide to Assembling the Burritos:
- Lay Out the Tortilla: Start by placing a warmed tortilla on a clean, flat surface.
- Layer the Ingredients: Begin with a spoonful of chipotle ranch dressing spread down the center of the tortilla. Add a layer of sliced grilled chicken, followed by shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, and avocado slices if desired.
- Additional Toppings: Drizzle a bit more dressing over the top, and consider adding extra toppings like cilantro, jalapeños, or even a handful of crushed tortilla chips for added crunch.
- Folding the Burrito: To fold, start by folding the sides of the tortilla inwards over the filling. Then, take the bottom edge of the tortilla and fold it over the filling, tucking it tightly. Continue rolling until the burrito is fully wrapped, ensuring the seam is on the bottom to keep it closed.
Tips on Achieving the Perfect Fold:
- Don’t Overfill: Overstuffing the burrito makes it difficult to fold and may cause it to tear.
- Tight Wrapping: Keep the wrap tight as you roll to help the burrito maintain its shape.
- Securing the Burrito: If the tortilla is stubborn, use a toothpick to hold the seam while grilling or cooking.
How to Layer Ingredients for Best Taste and Texture: Layering ingredients in a specific order ensures even distribution of flavors in every bite. Place wetter ingredients like the dressing and tomatoes at the bottom, with drier items like chicken and lettuce on top, ensuring that the burrito stays firm and doesn’t get soggy.
Cooking the Burritos
Instructions for Grilling the Assembled Burritos:
Preheat a grill or skillet over medium heat. Lightly grease the surface with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking. Place the assembled burrito seam-side down on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side, pressing gently with a spatula to flatten slightly, until the tortilla is golden and crispy. If using a panini press, cook for 4-5 minutes with the lid closed.
Tips on Achieving the Perfect Golden and Toasted Finish:
- Even Cooking: Rotate the burrito occasionally to ensure even browning.
- Pressing Down: Use a spatula or grill press to apply gentle pressure for a crispier finish.
- Avoid Overcooking: Keep an eye on the tortilla to prevent it from burning. The goal is a lightly toasted exterior with a warm, melty interior.
Alternative Methods: Pan vs. Air Fryer:
- Pan Method: If you don’t have a grill, a non-stick skillet works well. Follow the same process as grilling, using medium heat.
- Air Fryer: For a healthier option, cook the burrito in an air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway through. This method gives a crispy finish with minimal oil.
Serving Suggestions
To complement your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos, consider serving them with flavorful sides like cilantro lime rice and black beans. The cilantro lime rice adds a fresh, zesty note, while black beans provide a hearty and nutritious balance to the meal.
For additional toppings, offer extra chipotle ranch dressing, salsa, and guacamole. These not only enhance the burrito’s flavor but also provide options for guests to customize their burrito to their taste.
Pair these burritos with refreshing drinks like a margarita, agua fresca, or a cold beer to complete the meal. Alternatively, a light side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can offer a fresh contrast to the rich flavors of the burritos.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
Storing Leftover Burritos and Ingredients:
To store leftover burritos, wrap each one tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to keep them fresh. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For the ingredients, keep components like grilled chicken, lettuce, and tomatoes in separate airtight containers in the fridge. This prevents the burritos from becoming soggy and ensures the ingredients stay crisp and flavorful.
Best Practices for Reheating:
When reheating burritos, unwrap them and place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes. This method helps retain the tortilla’s crispness and warms the filling evenly. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat for a few minutes on each side. Avoid using the microwave, as it can make the tortilla soggy.
Why Burritos Are Not Ideal for Freezing:
Burritos are not ideal for freezing because the fresh ingredients, such as lettuce and tomatoes, lose their texture and flavor when thawed. The tortilla can also become tough and lose its pliability. If you must freeze them, do so without the fresh ingredients and add those after reheating.
Variations and Customizations
There are numerous ways to customize these burritos to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. For a vegetarian option, substitute the grilled chicken with seasoned black beans, grilled tofu, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and zucchini. You can also add extra spices, such as cayenne pepper or smoked paprika, to intensify the flavor.
If you’re looking to vary the protein, try using grilled shrimp, steak, or even pulled pork for a different twist. Adding more vegetables like roasted corn, spinach, or sautéed mushrooms can also enhance the burrito’s nutritional value and flavor profile.
FAQs
Can burritos be prepared in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the components of the burrito ahead of time and store them separately. Assemble the burritos just before serving to ensure the freshest taste and texture.
Can you freeze them?
While it’s possible to freeze burritos, it’s not recommended due to the loss of texture in fresh ingredients like lettuce and tomatoes. If you must freeze, avoid including these and add them fresh after reheating.
Tips for making the recipe healthier:
To make the burritos healthier, use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas, opt for Greek yogurt instead of sour cream in the dressing, and load up on extra veggies like spinach, bell peppers, and avocado. Reducing or skipping cheese and using grilled tofu or black beans instead of chicken are other great options.
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Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos (Taco Bell Copycat Recipe)
Description
This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito recipe is a delicious, homemade alternative to popular fast-food versions, combining juicy grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and creamy chipotle ranch dressing. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that doesn’t skimp on flavor. With options for customization, it can be adapted to suit various dietary preferences.
Ingredients
Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos
- 8 large burrito flour or wheat tortillas
- 4 c iceberg lettuce, shredded
- 1½ c Roma, slicing, or vine tomatoes, diced
- 1 lb grilled chicken (cubed) or shredded chicken
- 2 c Mexican/fiesta style or cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 large Hass avocado, diced
For serving (optional)
- 3 oz crunchy tortilla chips
- avocado ranch dressing
- chipotle ranch dressing
- side of cilantro lime or cantina rice
- side Mexican style black beans
Instructions
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Warm the tortillas for a few seconds in a dry skillet over medium-low heat to make them soft and easy to fold.
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Divide the burrito ingredients among the 8 tortillas: spoon about ½ cup of lettuce, ⅓ cup chicken, ¼ cup of cheese, 3 Tbsp of tomatoes, and ⅛ of an avocado in the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with a few crunchy tortilla chips, and 1 Tbsp each of chipotle ranch and avocado ranch dressing.
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Fold the sides of the tortilla inward and roll up tightly into a burrito.
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Lightly mist a frying pan with cooking spray and warm over medium heat. Add the burritos seam-side down to the pan (you may need to do in two batches) and cook for a few minutes on each side until golden and toasted.
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Remove the burritos from heat and enjoy alone or with a side of cilantro lime or cantina rice and/or Mexican style black beans. Drizzle with more avocado or chipotle ranch dressing, if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
- Adjusting Spice Level: Increase or decrease the amount of chipotle in the dressing to match your spice tolerance.
- Customization: Swap out the chicken for vegetarian options or other proteins to make it your own.
- Serving Tip: Serve with a side of cilantro lime rice and black beans for a complete meal.
