Chef Mitchell preparing Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito
👨‍🍳 Professional Chef

Recipe by Mitchell

🎓 10+ Years Experience ⏰ 1000+ Recipes Created 🍽️ Culinary Graduate

❤️ My Recipe Story

"I discovered the Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito while experimenting with bold flavors in my kitchen. The combination of chipotle and ranch sauce creates a unique taste that I knew would resonate with those who love a bit of spice. After perfecting this recipe over multiple tries, it has become a staple in my culinary repertoire. I love sharing it at gatherings, where it never fails to impress!"

Chef Mitchell has spent over a decade specializing in American cuisine, focusing on comfort foods with a twist. His passion for bold flavors and innovative cooking techniques is evident in dishes like the Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito. With a background in culinary arts, he has mastered the art of creating mouthwatering meals that everyone loves.

View All Mitchell's Recipes →
A delicious Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito filled with grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado, beautifully presented.

Why This Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito Recipe Works

This Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito stands out for its perfect balance of smoky and creamy flavors. The marinade infuses the chicken with a zesty kick, while the freshness of the veggies adds a delightful crunch. The use of ranch seasoning harmonizes all the flavors, creating a satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare. This recipe is great for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

The flavor profile is incredibly vivid; the chipotle brings heat while the ranch provides a cooling effect. Grilling the chicken ensures it remains juicy, and the tortillas provide a soft and chewy texture. Each bite offers a wonderful contrast that keeps you coming back for more.

💡 Professional Tip

For the best flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This allows the spices to penetrate deeply, resulting in an unbeatable taste. Also, consider searing the burrito on the grill for an added crispy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day prior and store it in the refrigerator. Assemble the burritos just before serving to keep the tortillas fresh and the fillings crisp.

You can easily substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, beef, or even a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on the protein you choose.

Grilling is the best method as it adds a delicious smoky flavor to the chicken. However, you can also use a stovetop skillet or an oven if grilling is not an option. Just make sure to achieve that golden-brown color on the meat.

To prevent sogginess, ensure that the chicken is well-drained after marinating and don't overload the burrito with too many toppings. Using fresh ingredients and proper tortilla storage can also help maintain crispness.

Perfectly cooked chicken will have an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The tortillas should be warm and pliable, and the burrito should feel full but not overly stuffed.

Consider serving with a side of tortilla chips and salsa, or a fresh garden salad. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on the side also complements the burrito perfectly.

Yes, you can add more chipotle sauce to the marinade or include sliced jalapeños in the filling for an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your preference to create the perfect balance.

Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, reheat in the oven or on a skillet to maintain the texture.

Recipe Troubleshooting Guide

✅

Overcooked Chicken

Problem: If your chicken ends up dry and overcooked, it can ruin the burrito experience.

Solution: To prevent this, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). Remove the chicken from the heat as soon as it reaches this temperature to ensure juiciness.

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Soggy Tortillas

Problem: Soggy tortillas can make the burrito unappealing and difficult to eat.

Solution: Warm tortillas briefly on the grill before assembling the burrito. Avoid adding too many wet ingredients in one area, and consider using thicker tortillas for added structural integrity.

✅

Bland Flavor

Problem: If the burrito lacks flavor, it can be quite disappointing.

Prevention: Ensure the chicken is well-marinated and season the fillings properly. Adding fresh herbs like cilantro can also enhance the overall taste.

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Difficult to Wrap

Problem: If the burrito is difficult to wrap, it may be overloaded or the tortillas may be too stiff.

Recovery: Use fewer fillings and ensure the tortillas are warmed adequately. This will make them more pliable and easier to wrap.

✅

Unbalanced Spiciness

Problem: If your burrito is too spicy, it can overpower the other flavors.

Prevention: To balance out spiciness, consider adding more creamy ingredients like sour cream or cheese to offset the heat.

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Flavor Balance Issues

Too Sweet: If the burrito tastes too sweet, add more acidic ingredients, such as lime juice or vinegar.

Too Salty: If the burrito is too salty, include more fresh ingredients like lettuce or avocado to dilute the saltiness.

Bland: If the burrito feels bland, enhance it with additional spices or fresh herbs to elevate the flavor profile.

An array of fresh ingredients including chicken, tortillas, and vegetables for Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito.

Choosing the Best Ingredients for Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito

Selecting fresh and high-quality ingredients is crucial for achieving the best flavor. Opt for organic vegetables and high-quality chicken to enhance the overall taste of your burrito. Look for firm avocados that yield slightly when pressed, ensuring they are ripe and ready to use.

Preparation of ingredients is equally important. Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly to remove any impurities. For optimal texture, slice the chicken and veggies uniformly to ensure even cooking and presentation.

Essential Ingredient Notes

  • Chicken Breast: Choose boneless, skinless chicken breast for a lean protein option that cooks evenly. Marinating it allows for flavor infusion and helps keep it tender during cooking.
  • Chipotle Sauce: Look for a high-quality chipotle sauce that offers the right amount of heat without being overwhelming. It adds a smoky flavor that elevates the entire dish.
  • Fresh Vegetables: Using fresh vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and avocados not only adds flavor but also nutrients. They provide a refreshing contrast to the spicy chicken.
Chef grilling chicken for Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito on a barbecue grill.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

The key to a fantastic Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito lies in the cooking technique. Grilling the chicken allows for a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste. Proper marination is essential, as it ensures the chicken remains juicy and flavorful.

Timing is crucial; cook the chicken until it reaches the right internal temperature, while ensuring the tortillas are warmed thoroughly. The visual cue of golden grill marks on the chicken is a good indicator of doneness and adds to the dish's appeal.

The Secret to Perfect Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito

The most important technique for this recipe is the marination process. It infuses the chicken with flavor and keeps it moist during grilling, resulting in a tender and tasty burrito that everyone will love.

Grilled Chipotle Ranch Burrito

Prep 30 min
Cook 15 min
Serves 4-6 servings
Level Easy

📋 Ingredients

Sauce

  • 1 cup buttermilk
    Serves as a base for marinating the chicken
  • 2 tablespoons chipotle sauce
    Provides a smoky and spicy flavor
  • 1 teaspoon ranch seasoning
    Adds a creamy and herby element
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    Enhances flavor and freshness

Main

  • 2 lbs chicken breast, cut into strips
    The main protein for the burrito
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    For grilling the chicken
  • 4 large flour tortillas
    To wrap the fillings
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
    Adds crunch and freshness
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes
    Provides color and juiciness
  • 1 cup shredded cheese
    For added creaminess and flavor
  • 1 avocado, sliced
    Adds creaminess and healthy fats
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish
    Enhances flavor and presentation

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, combine buttermilk, chipotle sauce, ranch seasoning, and lemon juice. Mix well to create a smooth marinade.

  2. Marinate the Chicken

    Add the chicken strips to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

  3. Preheat the Grill

    Prepare your grill by preheating it to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

  4. Cook the Chicken

    Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and grill marks appear.

  5. Prepare the Tortillas

    While the chicken is grilling, warm the flour tortillas on the grill for about 1 minute on each side until soft and pliable.

  6. Assemble the Burritos

    Lay the warm tortilla flat and layer the grilled chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and avocado in the center.

  7. Wrap the Burrito

    Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling and then roll it tightly from the bottom up. Ensure the filling is secure.

  8. Serve and Enjoy

    Cut the burrito in half and serve with extra chipotle ranch sauce on the side. Garnish with fresh cilantro.

Recipe Notes & Tips

Make-Ahead Instructions

You can marinate the chicken up to 24 hours in advance. Assemble the burritos just before serving for the best texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair the burrito with tortilla chips and salsa or a light salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Feel free to customize the fillings by adding additional vegetables or using a different type of protein such as steak or beans.