The Perfect Chipotle Chicken Burrito recipe

If you’re craving a flavorful and filling Chipotle-style chicken burrito, you’re in the right place! In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of making the perfect homemade burrito, packed with marinated chicken, cilantro-lime rice, and all the savory fillings that make Chipotle so popular. Best of all, you can customize this recipe to fit your taste, and it’s a fraction of the cost compared to dining out. Let’s dive into the details of creating a burrito that will rival the one you get at Chipotle.

Making burritos at home gives you complete control over the ingredients. You can adjust the seasoning, choose your fillings, and even make it healthier with a few simple swaps. For tips on how to improve your meal prepping, check out these meal prep benefits, which can help you simplify your cooking process.

Additionally, making burritos at home allows you to customize the ingredients. For example, you can skip some items like cheese or sour cream to make it lighter or add in extra ingredients like guacamole and salsa for that extra burst of flavor. If you’re unsure how to cook the perfect rice for your burritos, these rice cooking tips will guide you to a fluffy texture that’s ideal for burrito fillings.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chipotle Chicken Burrito

To create the ultimate Chipotle chicken burrito, gather the following ingredients:

• Chicken: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (or use shredded rotisserie chicken)
• Spices: Chipotle chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and dried oregano
• Vegetables: 1 bell pepper and 1 onion, sliced (for fajita-style veggies)
• Rice: 1 cup of white rice for cilantro-lime rice
• Beans: 1 can of black beans, drained and rinsed
• Tortillas: Large flour tortillas (the bigger, the better)
• Optional extras: Guacamole, sour cream, cheese, salsa (depending on your preferences)

How to Marinate the Chicken

Marinating the chicken is essential for getting that signature Chipotle-style flavor. Here’s a simple method to get started:

1. Combine the spices: In a small bowl, mix together 1 tablespoon of chipotle chili powder, 1 teaspoon each of cumin, garlic powder, oregano, and salt.
2. Add liquid: Pour 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar into the spice mix, and stir until well combined.
3. Marinate the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts or thighs with the spice mixture. Make sure the chicken is evenly covered, and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. For a deeper flavor, marinate overnight in the fridge.

Pro Tip: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavorful it will be!

Cooking the Chicken to Perfection

Once the chicken is marinated, it’s time to cook it:

1. Heat a skillet: Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil.
2. Cook the chicken: Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and fully cooked through. To check for doneness, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
3. Rest the chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing it into thin strips.

Making the Fajita Veggies

For that classic fajita-style filling, sauté bell peppers and onions:

1. Sauté the veggies: In the same skillet, add the sliced bell peppers and onions. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred.
2. Season to taste: Sprinkle a pinch of salt, pepper, and a little more chipotle chili powder for added flavor.

Preparing the Black Beans

For the beans, you want them to be flavorful but not overpowering:

1. Heat the beans: Pour the drained black beans into a small pot over medium heat.
2. Season the beans: Add ½ teaspoon of cumin and 1 tablespoon of lime juice. Stir to combine and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend together.

Making Cilantro Lime Rice

Now it’s time to prepare the cilantro-lime rice that will really elevate your burrito:

1. Cook the rice: Follow the instructions on your rice package to cook the rice.
2. Mix in cilantro and lime: Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro and the juice of one lime. Season with salt to taste.

Assembling the Burrito

Assembling the burrito is the fun part! Here’s how to put it all together:

1. Warm the tortillas: Heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them more pliable.
2. Layer the fillings: Start by placing a generous scoop of cilantro-lime rice in the center of the tortilla. Add a few spoonfuls of the black beans, followed by the sautéed fajita veggies and sliced marinated chicken.
3. Add extras: Now’s the time to add your favorite toppings. Consider adding guacamole, sour cream, cheese, and salsa for the full Chipotle experience.
4. Wrap it up: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly. Be sure the burrito is secure so none of the fillings spill out.

How to Wrap a Burrito Like a Pro

Wrapping the burrito tightly is key to preventing your fillings from falling out. Here’s a simple technique:

• Fold in the sides of the tortilla to create a closed pocket.
• Roll the burrito from the bottom up, tucking in the fillings as you go.
• Secure the wrap by pressing gently on the sides once it’s fully rolled.

Storing and Reheating Your Burritos

If you’re making extra burritos or meal prepping, here’s how to store them:

1. Wrap in foil: Wrap each burrito tightly in aluminum foil. This keeps the burrito fresh and makes for easy transport.
2. Store: You can store the wrapped burritos in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 3 months.
3. Reheat: To reheat, unwrap the foil and place the burrito in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.

Healthy Chipotle Chicken Burritos

If you’re looking to lighten up the recipe, here are a few healthy swaps:

• Lettuce wraps: Skip the flour tortilla and use large lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
• Brown rice: Swap white rice for brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
• No cheese: Skip the cheese to make the burrito even healthier.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the Chipotle chicken burrito in advance?
Yes! You can make the individual components ahead of time (chicken, rice, beans, and veggies) and store them in the fridge. Assemble the burrito when you’re ready to eat.

What if I don’t have chipotle chili powder?
If you can’t find chipotle chili powder, you can substitute it with smoked paprika or ancho chili powder for a similar smoky flavor.

Can I use a different type of chicken?
Absolutely! You can use rotisserie chicken or chicken thighs for a more flavorful burrito.

How do I make the rice less sticky?
To avoid sticky rice, rinse it thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch. Also, follow the instructions carefully, and avoid overcooking.

What should I serve with Chipotle chicken burritos?
Consider serving your burritos with a side of Mexican corn salad, chips, or a fresh side salad for a well-rounded meal.

Chipotle Chicken Burrito Variations

One of the best things about making burritos at home is how versatile they are. You can mix up the ingredients to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few popular variations of the Chipotle chicken burrito:

1. Vegetarian Chipotle Burrito

If you’re not a fan of chicken or just want to try something lighter, a vegetarian version of the burrito is just as delicious. Instead of chicken, you can load up your burrito with:

• Grilled vegetables: Use bell peppers, zucchini, and onions for a flavorful veggie filling.
• Black beans: Replace the chicken with extra black beans or pinto beans for added protein.
• Tofu or tempeh: For a plant-based protein alternative, try adding grilled tofu or tempeh.

2. Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burrito

If you love heat, you can turn up the spiciness of your Chipotle chicken burrito with these additions:

• Jalapeños: Add sliced fresh jalapeños or pickled jalapeños to the burrito for a spicy kick.
• Spicy salsa: Opt for a spicy salsa verde or habanero salsa to layer over your fillings.
• Hot sauce: A drizzle of your favorite hot sauce will give the burrito that extra fiery punch.

3. Low-Carb Chipotle Chicken Burrito

For those watching their carb intake, a low-carb burrito is an excellent option. Here’s how to make it:

• Lettuce wraps: Skip the tortilla and use large lettuce leaves as the base of your burrito. This not only cuts carbs but also adds a fresh crunch.
• Cauliflower rice: Replace traditional rice with cauliflower rice to keep things low-carb but still flavorful.
• No beans: You can skip the beans and focus on the protein and veggies to keep it lighter.

4. Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl

If you love burritos but don’t want to deal with rolling them up, a burrito bowl is a great alternative. Instead of using a tortilla, you can layer all the ingredients in a bowl for a Chipotle chicken burrito bowl:

• Rice: Start with a base of cilantro-lime rice or cauliflower rice.
• Toppings: Add your chicken, sautéed vegetables, beans, cheese, guacamole, and salsa, then drizzle with your favorite dressing or hot sauce.

This is an excellent option for anyone looking for a gluten-free, low-carb, or grain-free alternative to the traditional burrito.

Serving Ideas and Side Dishes for Chipotle Chicken Burritos

To make your Chipotle chicken burrito meal complete, here are a few side dish ideas that complement the flavors of your burrito:

• Chips and Guacamole: A classic side dish to enjoy with any Mexican meal. The crispy chips and creamy guacamole are a perfect pairing for a flavorful burrito.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This dish features corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, chili powder, and lime, making it a great side dish to round out the meal.
• Mexican Rice: If you want a double dose of rice, you can serve your burrito with a side of Mexican rice. The slightly spicy, tomato-infused rice will be a perfect addition.
• Pico de Gallo: A fresh, tangy salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, lime, and chili peppers that adds an extra burst of flavor.
• Refried Beans: Creamy and comforting, refried beans are a fantastic side that pairs beautifully with your Chipotle chicken burrito.

Tips for Meal Prep: How to Make Your Chipotle Chicken Burrito Recipe Ahead of Time

If you’re looking to save time and make these burritos in advance, here are a few meal prep tips to make things easier:

• Prepare the ingredients ahead: Cook the chicken, rice, beans, and veggies a day or two in advance, then store them in airtight containers in the fridge. This way, you only need to assemble the burritos when it’s time to eat.
• Wrap burritos individually: Wrap each burrito tightly in foil, and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the oven or microwave.
• Freezer-friendly burritos: If you want to freeze your burritos for future meals, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for 20-25 minutes from frozen.

Chipotle Chicken Burrito Nutritional Information

If you’re watching your calories or trying to stick to a specific diet plan, it’s important to know the nutritional breakdown of your burrito. Here’s a general estimate for one Chipotle chicken burrito (without guacamole or sour cream):

• Calories: 500–600 calories
• Protein: 30–35 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50–60 grams
• Fat: 15–20 grams
• Fiber: 6–8 grams

If you’re looking to reduce the calorie count, try removing the cheese, guacamole, or sour cream, or use a lettuce wrap instead of a tortilla.

Conclusion

Making your own Chipotle chicken burrito at home is an easy and satisfying way to enjoy the flavors of your favorite restaurant-style meal. With a little prep and the right ingredients, you can create a flavorful and customizable burrito that suits your taste and dietary needs. Whether you like it spicy, vegetarian, or low-carb, this recipe offers endless possibilities to make the perfect burrito. So why not give it a try? You might just find that your homemade Chipotle chicken burrito is even better than the original!

By making your burritos at home, you’ll not only save money but also enjoy a healthier version of your favorite Mexican food. Don’t forget to serve with some tasty sides, and enjoy!

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Final Thoughts

By following this detailed recipe and exploring the various Chipotle chicken burrito variations, you can create a meal that suits your cravings, your health goals, and your budget. Whether you’re meal prepping, cooking for a family, or just indulging in a Chipotle-style dish, this recipe will deliver. Enjoy your burrito with a side of guacamole, salsa, or even a bowl of refried beans—the options are endless!

For more tips on meal prep and creating healthy Mexican-inspired meals, check out the Oreo Ice Cream Cake Recipe for dessert ideas or dive into our Carrot Bundt Cake Recipe to make your burrito night even more memorable.