If you love bold, smoky flavors with a creamy kick, this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is about to become your new favorite meal. Juicy grilled chicken, zesty chipotle ranch sauce, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and fresh toppings all wrapped in a warm tortilla—this burrito checks every box.
The best part? It’s easy to make at home, customizable, and tastes just as good (if not better) than your favorite fast-casual burrito spot. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or weekend grilling.
🛒 Ingredients List (With Exact Measurements)
For the Grilled Chipotle Chicken
- 1½ lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
- 1 tbsp chipotle chili powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ¾ tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
Recommended brands:
- McCormick Chipotle Chili Powder
- Pompeian Extra Virgin Olive Oil
For the Creamy Chipotle Ranch Sauce
- ½ cup ranch dressing (Hidden Valley works great)
- 2 tbsp chipotle sauce or adobo sauce (from canned chipotles)
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp honey (optional, balances heat)
Burrito Fillings
- 2 cups cooked long-grain white rice (or cilantro lime rice)
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1½ cups shredded Mexican blend cheese or Monterey Jack
- 1 cup grilled corn (fresh or frozen)
- ½ cup diced tomatoes or pico de gallo
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro
Burrito Wrap
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito-size, 10–12 inch)
🔪 Essential Kitchen Tools & Appliances
- Outdoor grill or indoor grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Measuring spoons & cups
- Tongs
- Cutting board
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Small whisk or spoon
- Nonstick skillet (for crisping burritos, optional)
🧄 Preparation Steps (Easy & Stress-Free)
- Prep the chicken:
Pat chicken dry with paper towels. This helps it grill properly. - Make the marinade:
In a bowl, mix olive oil, chipotle powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and lime juice. - Marinate:
Coat chicken evenly. Let it rest for 20–30 minutes (or up to 8 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor). - Prep fillings:
Cook rice, rinse beans, shred cheese, chop cilantro, and mix chipotle ranch sauce. Keep everything ready—assembly is fast!
🔥 Cooking Instructions (Perfectly Juicy Chicken)
- Preheat grill:
Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat (about 400°F). - Grill chicken:
Grill chicken for 6–7 minutes per side, until internal temp hits 165°F. - Rest & slice:
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice into thin strips.
🌯 How to Assemble the Burritos
- Warm tortillas slightly so they don’t tear.
- Layer rice, beans, sliced chicken, corn, tomatoes, cheese, and cilantro.
- Drizzle generously with chipotle ranch sauce.
- Fold sides in, then roll tightly into a burrito.
Optional but amazing:
Lightly grill the wrapped burrito in a skillet for 1–2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve with tortilla chips & salsa
- Add guacamole or sour cream on the side
- Garnish with extra cilantro & lime wedges
- Pair with iced tea, lemonade, or a light Mexican soda
🌟 Additional Tips & Variations
- Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or extra chipotle sauce
- Healthier swap: Use brown rice or whole-wheat tortillas
- Low-carb option: Turn it into a burrito bowl
- Meal prep friendly: Wrap tightly in foil and refrigerate up to 3 days
- Vegetarian option: Swap chicken for grilled tofu or roasted sweet potatoes
🧮 Nutrition Information (Per Burrito – Approx.)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | ~620 kcal |
| Protein | 38 g |
| Carbohydrates | 52 g |
| Fat | 30 g |
| Fiber | 7 g |
| Sugar | 5 g |
| Sodium | ~980 mg |
Values are estimates and may vary based on brands used.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble burritos, wrap in foil, and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Q: Can I freeze these burritos?
Absolutely. Skip fresh toppings, wrap tightly, and freeze up to 2 months.
Q: What’s the best chicken cut to use?
Chicken breasts are lean, but thighs work great if you want extra juiciness.
Q: Is chipotle ranch very spicy?
It’s smoky with mild heat. Adjust chipotle sauce to your preference.
🌯 Wrap-Up: Why You’ll Love This Burrito
This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is smoky, creamy, hearty, and incredibly satisfying. It’s the kind of recipe that feels indulgent but is totally doable at home—no fancy skills required.
Fun fact: Chipotle-style flavors are inspired by traditional Mexican smoked chili techniques, blended with American comfort food—making this burrito the best of both worlds.
Once you try it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a weekly repeat in your kitchen.
