Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

Featured in Delicious Main Course Recipes for Every Occasion.

This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito combines smoky, spicy flavors with cool, creamy elements to create a perfectly balanced meal that's both satisfying and easy to prepare. The chicken is the star of the show, marinated in a blend of chipotle chili powder, lime juice, and aromatic spices that infuse it with bold Mexican flavors. What makes this recipe special is the contrast between the warm, juicy grilled chicken and the cool, crisp vegetables, all brought together by the tangy chipotle ranch dressing that adds creaminess and a hint of heat. The combination of protein from the chicken, carbs from the rice and beans, and freshness from the vegetables creates a well-rounded meal that's portable and customizable. Whether you're looking for a hearty lunch or a quick dinner solution, these burritos deliver restaurant-quality flavor with the satisfaction of homemade goodness.
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Updated on Tue, 25 Feb 2025 16:34:53 GMT
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Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos combine smoky heat with creamy coolness in a handheld meal that satisfies all your cravings at once. These flavor-packed burritos feature juicy chicken marinated in a smoky chipotle blend, then grilled to perfection before being wrapped in a tender tortilla with complementary fillings. The signature chipotle ranch sauce adds a luxurious creaminess that balances the bold flavors and ties everything together into a memorable meal.

Last weekend, I made these for a casual gathering, and my friend who's "not a burrito person" ended up asking for the recipe. The grilling technique and special sauce elevate these far beyond ordinary burritos.

Essential Elements

  • Chicken thighs: More flavorful and juicier than breast meat
  • Chipotle in adobo: Provides signature smoky heat
  • Fresh lime juice: Brightens and tenderizes the chicken
  • Quality ranch dressing: Creates creamy base for sauce
  • Fresh tortillas: Look for the largest size for proper wrapping
  • Cilantro lime rice: Adds aromatic foundation
  • Proper marinating time: Allows flavors to fully develop
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Creating Perfect Burritos

Marinade Magic:
Blend marinade ingredients thoroughly. Coat chicken evenly, allowing time for flavors to penetrate.
Grilling Technique:
Maintain medium-high heat for perfect char. Watch for clear juices indicating doneness.
Sauce Development:
Adjust chipotle amount gradually for personalized heat level. Balance with lemon's brightness.
Wrapping Strategy:
Warm tortillas for flexibility. Arrange ingredients in center line for easy rolling.

My grandmother always said successful cooking was about balance - a principle these burritos honor perfectly with their harmonious blend of heat, cream, and freshness.

Perfect Pairings

Serve these satisfying burritos with elote (Mexican street corn), a simple avocado salad, or tortilla chips with fresh pico de gallo. For beverages, try a cold Mexican beer, homemade horchata, or sparkling water with lime for refreshing contrast.

Creative Variations

Experiment with protein substitutions like marinated steak, shrimp, or crispy tofu. Try adding grilled vegetables, pineapple, or mango for sweetness. Create breakfast burritos by incorporating scrambled eggs and breakfast potatoes.

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Storage Success

Wrap assembled (but not grilled) burritos individually in foil for refrigerator storage up to two days. For freezing, wrap first in plastic wrap, then foil, and freeze for up to three months. Reheat in the oven for best texture.

After perfecting this recipe through countless taco nights, I've found that success lies in the details - the proper marinating of the chicken, the balance of ingredients in the sauce, and the final grilling that transforms a good burrito into a great one. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or feeding a hungry crowd, these Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos deliver restaurant-quality flavor with homemade satisfaction.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare all components in advance and assemble when ready to eat. For meal prep, wrap assembled burritos in foil and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
→ What can I substitute for chipotle chili powder?
If you don't have chipotle chili powder, you can use regular chili powder mixed with a pinch of smoked paprika. Alternatively, finely chop a canned chipotle pepper in adobo sauce and use about 1 teaspoon in the marinade.
→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Use certified gluten-free corn or cassava flour tortillas instead of wheat flour tortillas. Also, check that your chipotle ranch dressing is gluten-free, as some store-bought varieties may contain gluten.
→ What if I don't have a grill?
You can cook the chicken in a cast-iron skillet or regular frying pan over medium-high heat, about 6-7 minutes per side, or bake it in the oven at 425°F for 20-25 minutes until it reaches 165°F internally.
→ How do I make homemade chipotle ranch dressing?
Combine 1/2 cup ranch dressing with 1-2 teaspoons of finely minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce (adjust to your heat preference). Add a squeeze of lime juice and mix well. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop.

Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito

A flavorful Mexican-inspired burrito featuring smoky grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, and tangy chipotle ranch dressing wrapped in a warm tortilla.

Prep Time
20 Minutes
Cook Time
25 Minutes
Total Time
45 Minutes

Category: Main Dishes

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Mexican

Yield: 4 Servings (4 burritos)

Dietary: ~

Ingredients

→ For the Chicken Marinade

01 2 boneless skinless chicken breasts
02 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 2 tablespoons lime juice
04 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
05 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
06 1 teaspoon garlic powder
07 1 teaspoon onion powder
08 1 teaspoon cumin
09 Salt and pepper to taste

→ For the Burritos

10 4 large flour tortillas
11 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
12 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
13 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
14 1 cup shredded lettuce
15 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
16 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
17 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
18 1/2 cup chipotle ranch dressing

Instructions

Step 01

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 2 hours for more flavor).

Step 02

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken breasts for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing into strips.

Step 03

Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable. Heat the black beans and rice if they are not already warm.

Step 04

Lay each tortilla flat and spread 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle ranch dressing in the center. Add a layer of rice, black beans, grilled chicken strips, shredded cheese, lettuce, tomatoes, and corn (if using). Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top for added freshness.

Step 05

Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. Serve immediately or lightly grill the wrapped burrito for a crispy exterior.

Notes

  1. Longer marination time (up to 2 hours) enhances flavor
  2. Can briefly grill the wrapped burrito for a crispy exterior
  3. Corn and cilantro are optional ingredients
  4. Either white or brown rice can be used

Tools You'll Need

  • Grill or grill pan
  • Mixing bowl
  • Whisk
  • Cutting board
  • Knife
  • Meat thermometer
  • Skillet (optional for warming tortillas)

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Wheat (in flour tortillas)
  • Dairy (in cheese and possibly in ranch dressing)

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 550
  • Total Fat: 24 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 48 g
  • Protein: 32 g