Introduction
Experience a flavorful twist on the classic burrito with this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito. Juicy, marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and wrapped in a warm tortilla with a tangy chipotle ranch sauce, providing a delightful balance of smoky and creamy flavors.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Chicken breast: 500 g
Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce: 50 g
Ranch dressing: 100 ml
Olive oil: 30 ml
Lime juice: 20 ml
Garlic cloves, minced: 10 g
Ground cumin: 5 g
Paprika: 5 g
Salt: 5 g
Black pepper: 3 g
Large flour tortillas: 4
Cooked white rice: 200 g
Black beans, drained and rinsed: 150 g
Shredded lettuce: 100 g
Cherry tomatoes, diced: 100 g
Shredded cheese: 100 g
Sour cream: 100 ml
Prep Time
1 hour
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 16 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 16 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Enjoy the explosion of flavors in this Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito, perfect for a satisfying meal any day of the week!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Preparation of the Chipotle Ranch Marinade
In a bowl, combine the chipotle peppers, ranch dressing, olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until you achieve a smooth and creamy consistency, with the smoky scent of chipotle and the tang of ranch dancing in the air.
Marinating the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag. Pour in half of the prepared marinade, ensuring the chicken is well-coated. Seal the bag tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for deeper flavor absorption. Keep the remaining marinade aside for later use.
Grilling the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Take the marinated chicken out of the bag, allowing any excess marinade to drip off. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until it is fully cooked through and has beautiful grill marks. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin, juicy strips.
Preparing the Tortillas
Warm the large flour tortillas on the grill or in a skillet for a few moments until they are soft and pliable, making them easy to wrap around the fillings.
Assembling the Burritos
To create a delightful burrito, lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Add a generous amount of sliced grilled chicken, followed by cooked white rice, drained black beans, shredded lettuce, diced cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese. Don’t forget to add a dollop of sour cream, creating a rich layer of flavor.
Drizzling with Chipotle Ranch Sauce
Take the reserved marinade and drizzle it over the filled burrito generously, enhancing the spices and creaminess already present in the ingredients.
Wrapping the Burritos
To wrap your burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly from the bottom up, encasing all the flavorful contents inside. Make sure it is secured for a neat presentation.
Grilling the Assembled Burritos
Place the wrapped burritos on the grill and heat them for about 2 minutes on each side. This adds a delightful crispness to the tortilla and melts the cheese inside, making each bite an exhilarating experience.
Serving
Serve your warm Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burritos immediately, allowing everyone to relish the harmony of flavors inside. A side of extra chipotle ranch sauce can also be offered for more indulgence.
Notes
Marination Time
For the best flavor, it’s recommended to marinate the chicken overnight if time allows. This will ensure the spices penetrate deeper into the meat.
Tortilla Options
If you prefer a healthier option, you can use whole wheat tortillas or corn tortillas.
Spice Adjustment
Feel free to adjust the amount of chipotle peppers to suit your taste, especially if you prefer a milder flavor.
Storage Tips
Leftover burritos can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them; just ensure they are securely wrapped to prevent freezer burn.
Cook Techniques
Marinating
Marinating chicken in a mixture of chipotle peppers, ranch dressing, and spices enhances its flavor and moisture. Aim to marinate for at least 1 hour or up to overnight for the best results.
Grilling
Grilling the marinated chicken over medium-high heat ensures a smoky flavor and caramelized exterior. Cook each side for about 6-7 minutes until fully cooked.
Assembling a Burrito
Layer the tortilla with grilled chicken, rice, beans, and fresh toppings before adding the chipotle ranch sauce. This builds flavor and texture in each bite.
Crisping the Tortilla
Grill the assembled burritos for 2 minutes on each side. This step adds an appealing crispiness to the tortilla while warming the ingredients and melting the cheese inside.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of protein?
Yes, you can substitute chicken with beef, pork, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
How spicy is the chipotle ranch sauce?
The spiciness of the sauce depends on the amount of chipotle peppers used. Adjust the quantity to suit your spice preference.
Can I make this burrito ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the fillings and assemble the burrito ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator and grill them when ready to serve.
What can I serve with the burrito?
Consider serving with tortilla chips, salsa, guacamole, or a side salad for a complete meal.
Can I freeze the burritos?
Yes, you can freeze assembled burritos. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer bag. To reheat, thaw and grill until heated through.
Conclusion
The Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a deliciously vibrant dish that combines smoky, creamy flavors with a variety of textures. The grilled chicken, enhanced by the chipotle ranch marinade, harmonizes beautifully with fresh vegetables and hearty ingredients, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. This burrito not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a customizable experience, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.
Vegetarian Chipotle Burrito
Swap the grilled chicken for grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and mushrooms. Add the chipotle ranch sauce along with black beans, rice, and your favorite toppings for a delicious meatless option.
Chipotle Shrimp Burrito
Substitute shrimp for chicken and marinate in the chipotle ranch sauce. Grill until cooked through and combine with rice, beans, and fresh veggies for a seafood twist.
BBQ Chicken Burrito
Use shredded BBQ chicken instead of grilled chicken for an enticing, tangy flavor. Pair with coleslaw, pickles, and a drizzle of ranch dressing for a unique spin.
Breakfast Burrito
Transform this recipe into a breakfast burrito by using scrambled eggs, crispy bacon or sausage, and cheddar cheese. Drizzle with chipotle ranch sauce for that extra kick.
Loaded Nacho Burrito
Stuff your burrito with tortilla chips for crunch, layered with ground beef, nacho cheese, jalapeños, and chipotle ranch sauce for a savory twist on burritos and nachos combined.
Quinoa and Black Bean Burrito
Replace rice with quinoa for a healthier alternative. Mix with black beans, corn, diced avocado, and the chipotle ranch sauce for a wholesome and filling option.
