Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create these mouthwatering burritos, along with a brief description of each:
- Chicken Breasts: 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts – The protein powerhouse of our burrito, providing a lean and satisfying base.
- Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: 2-3 chipotle peppers + 1 tbsp adobo sauce – These bring the signature smoky heat and depth of flavor that makes this burrito truly special. Adjust the amount for your preferred spice level.
- Ranch Dressing: 1 cup mayonnaise-based ranch dressing – The creamy, tangy foundation of our delicious chipotle ranch sauce. Look for a good quality ranch for the best flavor.
- Lime Juice: 2 limes, juiced – Fresh lime juice adds a bright, citrusy zing that balances the smoky heat and creamy ranch.
- Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil – Used for both the marinade and grilling, adding richness and preventing sticking.
- Garlic Powder: 1 teaspoon garlic powder – Enhances the savory flavor of the chicken and marinade.
- Onion Powder: 1 teaspoon onion powder – Complements the garlic powder, adding another layer of savory depth.
- Smoked Paprika: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika – Boosts the smoky flavor profile and adds a beautiful color to the chicken.
- Cumin: 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Provides a warm, earthy note that pairs perfectly with chipotle and other Southwestern flavors.
- Salt: 1 teaspoon, or to taste – Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the other flavors.
- Black Pepper: ½ teaspoon, or to taste – Adds a touch of spice and depth.
- Large Flour Tortillas: 8-10 large flour tortillas – The perfect vessel to wrap up all the delicious fillings. Choose burrito-size tortillas for easy rolling.
- Cooked Rice: 2 cups cooked rice (white or brown) – A classic burrito filler, adding substance and texture. Cilantro lime rice is especially delicious.
- Black Beans or Pinto Beans: 1 (15-ounce) can, rinsed and drained – Another hearty and flavorful burrito staple, adding protein and fiber.
- Shredded Cheese: 1 ½ cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend) – Melty, cheesy goodness that binds all the ingredients together.
- Optional Toppings: Avocado slices, salsa, sour cream, chopped cilantro, pickled onions, jalapeños – Customize your burrito to your heart’s content with your favorite toppings!
Instructions
Follow these step-by-step instructions to create your own batch of irresistible Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos:
- Prepare the Chipotle Ranch Marinade: In a blender or food processor, combine the ranch dressing, chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (start with 2 peppers and add more for extra heat), adobo sauce, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Blend until completely smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more chipotle for heat or lime juice for tanginess.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour about ¾ cup of the chipotle ranch marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Reserve the remaining marinade for later use as a sauce. Seal the bag or cover the dish and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or ideally for 2-4 hours for maximum flavor infusion. Longer marinating times will result in more tender and flavorful chicken.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking. If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C).
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken breasts from the marinade and discard the marinade. Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Grill marks are a bonus for added flavor and visual appeal! Avoid overcrowding the grill; cook in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
- Rest and Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in more tender and flavorful chicken. After resting, shred the chicken using two forks.
- Warm the Tortillas: While the chicken is resting, warm the tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel for about 30 seconds, or directly over a gas stovetop flame for a few seconds per side (be careful not to burn them!). Warming the tortillas makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking when you roll the burritos.
- Assemble the Burritos: Lay out a warm tortilla and spread a spoonful of the reserved chipotle ranch sauce (or the remaining marinade) in the center. Layer with cooked rice, black beans or pinto beans, shredded cheese, and a generous portion of shredded grilled chicken.
- Roll the Burritos: To roll the burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then bring the bottom edge up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Continue rolling tightly until the burrito is sealed. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
- Optional: Sear the Burritos (for extra crispiness): For an extra touch of deliciousness and a slightly crispy exterior, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in the hot skillet and cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly golden brown and crispy.
- Serve and Enjoy!: Serve your delicious Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos immediately while warm. Offer a side of extra chipotle ranch sauce, salsa, sour cream, guacamole, or any of your favorite burrito toppings for customization.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: one normal portion
- Calories: 750
- Protein: 55g