If you are craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that brings together smoky, creamy, and crunchy textures, the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe is an absolute game-changer. This copycat Taco Bell burrito combines juicy grilled chicken, crisp lettuce, fresh tomatoes, sharp cheddar cheese, and that unbeatable creamy chipotle ranch sauce wrapped snugly inside a warm flour tortilla. It is quick to pull together, perfect for busy weeknights, and loved by the whole family. Dive into a fusion of Tex-Mex goodness that’s so comforting and delicious, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is key to nailing this recipe, and you’ll be delighted how simple yet impactful each component is. From the crunchy tortilla strips to the creamy chipotle and ranch sauces, every ingredient brings its own personality, texture, and flavor to the burrito.
- 8 large 10-inch flour tortillas: The perfect soft, pliable base to hold all your fillings together.
- 1/2 head iceberg lettuce (about 4 cups chopped): Adds a fresh, crisp crunch that balances out the richer flavors.
- 1 1/4 cups diced tomatoes: For a juicy pop of freshness and vibrant color.
- 16 oz grilled chicken breast strips: The star protein, smoky and tender, carrying all those smoky charred notes.
- 16 oz shredded cheddar cheese: Or Mexican blend or Colby Jack for a melty, gooey texture and sharp flavor.
- 3 oz crunchy tortilla strips: These bring an irresistible crunch that makes every bite exciting.
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing: Adds cool, creamy tanginess that perfectly complements the chipotle sauce.
- 1/2 cup Taco Bell creamy chipotle sauce: Smoky, spicy, and slightly sweet sauce that unifies all the flavors with a zesty kick.
How to Make Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Before getting down to assembly, make sure your ingredients are ready to go. Grate that cheese until it’s fluffy and easy to sprinkle. Chop your iceberg lettuce finely and dice those juicy tomatoes. Having everything laid out makes the wrapping process smooth and enjoyable.
Step 2: Layer the Burrito Fillings
Start with your large flour tortilla laid flat on a clean surface. First, sprinkle about 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to create a melty cushion for the chicken. Next, evenly distribute 1/2 cup of grilled chicken strips for that smoky protein punch. Follow up with 1 tablespoon of creamy chipotle sauce and 1 tablespoon of ranch dressing, swirling these sauces in for that dreamy, tangy, and smoky flavor combo. Add 1/2 cup chopped lettuce for freshness, 2 tablespoons of diced tomatoes for juiciness, and finally 1/3 cup crunchy tortilla strips to give your burrito that satisfying crunch on every bite.
Step 3: Roll Up Your Burrito
Here’s where your technique matters! Tuck in the sides of the tortilla firmly, then start rolling from one edge to the other, keeping the fillings tight but not bursting out. A snug wrap ensures every bite holds all those delicious layers without any spills.
Step 4: Grill to Perfection
Heat a skillet over medium heat and gently place your burrito seam-side down. Grill on all sides until the tortilla turns golden brown and crispy. This step not only locks in the flavors but adds a toasty, satisfying crunch to the outside, making this burrito simply irresistible.
How to Serve Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe, don’t forget the garnishes. Fresh cilantro leaves sprinkled on top add a bright herbal note, while a quick dollop of sour cream cools things off and contrasts endlessly with the spicy chipotle sauce. For an extra burst, a squeeze of lime over the top adds fantastic acidity and brightness.
Side Dishes
This burrito pairs wonderfully with simple sides like Mexican rice or refried beans to keep things classic. For a fresh complement, a tangy corn salad or zesty pickled jalapeños brighten the meal and balance the richness. If you’re feeling indulgent, crispy tortilla chips and guacamole are always crowd-pleasers alongside the burrito.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your dish the star of your next gathering by slicing the burrito in half diagonally, showcasing the beautiful layers inside. You can serve them stacked on a platter with small bowls of additional ranch and chipotle sauce for dipping. Wrapping burritos in foil keeps them warm and portable for picnics or lunch on the go. Don’t hesitate to experiment by adding a fried egg on top for a breakfast twist!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers (though unlikely!), wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap or foil and place in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the ingredients fresh and prevents sogginess.
Freezing
These burritos freeze beautifully for meal-prep convenience. Wrap each burrito securely in foil and then place in a freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. When you want a quick meal, just grab one from the freezer and reheat.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the burrito and place it in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cover with a lid and warm on each side until heated through and the tortilla crisps back up. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the tortilla soggy. If you need speed, microwave unwrapped with a paper towel for 1-2 minutes then crisp in a hot skillet briefly.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in this recipe?
Absolutely! While shredded cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend is traditional, feel free to use Colby Jack or even Monterey Jack for a mild, creamy melt. The key is to use a cheese that melts well and complements the smoky and tangy flavors.
Is this recipe spicy? Can I adjust the heat level?
This Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe has a gentle smoky spice from the chipotle sauce but is quite mild overall thanks to the ranch dressing balancing it out. If you want it milder, reduce the chipotle sauce or add more ranch dressing. For more heat, add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
Can I prepare the grill chicken in advance?
Yes! Grilled chicken works great pre-cooked and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage. Just reheat before assembly. This makes it a great option for meal prepping or quick weeknight meals.
What kind of tortillas are best for this burrito?
Large (10-inch) flour tortillas are ideal because they are soft, flexible, and sturdy enough to hold all the fillings without cracking. You can also try whole wheat or spinach tortillas for a fun twist in flavor and nutrients.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, simply swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use dairy-free ranch dressing. The creamy chipotle sauce can also be replaced or made at home without dairy to keep the smoky flavor intact without the dairy.
Final Thoughts
Making the Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe at home is a delightful way to bring bold flavors and satisfying textures to your table. Whether it’s a family dinner, a friendly get-together, or a solo indulgence, this recipe is a delicious crowd-pleaser that feels like a special treat but comes together effortlessly. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this copycat burrito has become a treasured favorite in many homes. So grab your tortillas and get ready for a fiesta of flavors that warms the soul.
Print
Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito Recipe
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 burritos
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American, Mexican
Description
Chipotle Ranch Grilled Chicken Burrito is a flavorful copycat Taco Bell recipe featuring warm flour tortillas filled with grilled chicken breast strips, crunchy tortilla strips, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a creamy blend of chipotle and ranch sauces. This easy and quick-to-make burrito combines the smoky heat of chipotle with the cool creaminess of ranch dressing, making it a family favorite Mexican-American fusion meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 8 large 10-inch flour tortillas
- 1/2 head iceberg lettuce (about 4 cups chopped)
- 1 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (about 3/4 of a beefsteak tomato)
- 16 oz grilled chicken breast strips
- 16 oz shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend or Colby jack)
- 3 oz crunchy tortilla strips (or crushed tortilla chips)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1/2 cup Taco Bell Creamy Chipotle Sauce
Instructions
- Prep the ingredients: Grate the cheese, chop the lettuce, and dice the tomatoes. Lay out all the ingredients for easy assembly.
- Assemble the burrito: Lay a large flour tortilla flat. Top with 1/2 cup shredded cheese, 1/2 cup grilled chicken strips, 1 tablespoon creamy chipotle sauce, 1 tablespoon ranch dressing, 1/2 cup chopped lettuce, 2 tablespoons diced tomatoes, and 1/3 cup crunchy tortilla strips.
- Roll the burrito: Tuck in the sides of the tortilla tightly and roll it up to enclose all the fillings into a burrito shape.
- Grill the burrito: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the wrapped burrito in the skillet and grill on all sides until the tortilla is golden brown and crispy, about 2-3 minutes per side.
Notes
- Use freshly grilled chicken breast strips for best flavor; leftover grilled chicken works well too.
- Feel free to substitute crunchy tortilla strips with crushed tortilla chips for added texture.
- Adjust the amount of chipotle and ranch sauces to suit your taste preferences.
- Warm the tortillas before assembling to make them more pliable and easier to roll.
- Serve immediately after grilling to enjoy the burrito warm and crispy.
