Chipotle's Burrito features a warm flour tortilla stuffed with seasoned grilled chicken or steak, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, fresh salsa, melted cheese, and creamy guacamole, offering a flavorful and satisfying blend of smoky, tangy, and savory tastes wrapped in a soft, handheld wrap.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Rice cooker
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowls
- Cheese grater
- Guacamole masher or fork
- Spoon or scoop
- Tongs
- Ladle
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Serving spoon
- Aluminum foil
- Burrito/wrap station or clean work surface
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast or steak
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 limes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin (for beans)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (for beans)
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito-size)
- 1 cup fresh tomato salsa (pico de gallo)
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1 small jalapeño
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for guacamole)
- 1 lime (for guacamole)
- Salt (for guacamole)
- Optional: sour cream
Ensure to use fresh, ripe avocados for creamy guacamole and freshly squeezed lime juice to enhance the taco's tangy flavor. Using boneless, skinless chicken breast or steak seasoned with chipotle chili powder and smoked paprika delivers the authentic smoky and spicy taste characteristic of Chipotle's burritos. Cook long-grain white rice with cilantro and lime juice for a zesty, aromatic complement to the protein and beans. Black beans should be seasoned with cumin and garlic powder for depth, maintaining the savory profile of the dish. Your burrito replicates Chipotle's signature blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors wrapped in a soft, warm flour tortilla.
Instructions
- Marinate chicken or steak with olive oil, chipotle chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat grill or griddle over medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken or steak until cooked through; let rest, then slice into strips.
- Cook rice in rice cooker; once done, fluff and mix with chopped cilantro and juice of 2 limes.
- Heat black beans in large skillet with cumin, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt.
- Prepare guacamole: mash avocados, mix with diced red onion, chopped cilantro, minced jalapeño, juice of 1 lime, and salt.
- Grate Monterey Jack cheese.
- Warm flour tortillas on skillet or griddle until soft and pliable.
- Set up burrito station: tortillas, chicken/steak, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and optional sour cream.
- To assemble, lay tortilla on work surface, layer with rice, beans, meat, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and sour cream if using.
- Fold sides in and carefully roll up burrito, tucking in fillings as you go.
- Optionally wrap burrito in aluminum foil for easier handling.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
Chipotle's Burrito offers a versatile base where you can easily substitute grilled chicken with steak or even opt for a plant-based protein like tofu for a vegetarian version. If you don't have access to fresh cilantro or limes, bottled lime juice and dried herbs can be used without significantly altering the flavor profile. When cooking rice, using a rice cooker ensures even, fluffy grains, but stovetop cooking is a great alternative if equipment is limited. In case you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding extra jalapeno or a dash of hot sauce in your salsa or guacamole. Your burrito will stay warm and pliable wrapped in aluminum foil, perfect for enjoying on the go or later.
Tips
Make sure to marinate the chicken or steak for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices to fully infuse the meat with flavor. When cooking the rice, fluff it gently with a fork before mixing in the cilantro and lime to keep the grains separate and light. Warm the tortillas just enough to make them soft and pliable, preventing them from tearing during assembly. Your burrito will hold together better if you fold the sides first and roll tightly while tucking in the fillings carefully.
Nutritions
Chipotle's Burrito provides a balanced mix of macronutrients with protein-rich grilled chicken or steak, fiber-packed black beans, and complex carbohydrates from cilantro-lime rice. The healthy fats come from creamy guacamole made with ripe avocados, while shredded Monterey Jack cheese adds calcium and vitamin D. Fresh salsa contributes antioxidants such as vitamin C from tomatoes, onions, and jalapeno. Your meal also delivers essential micronutrients like potassium, iron, and dietary fiber, making it a satisfying and nutrient-dense choice.
Storage
Store leftover burritos wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent moisture loss. Keep them refrigerated and consume within 2-3 days to ensure optimal taste and safety. When reheating, unwrap the burrito and warm it on a grill or skillet to retain the texture of the tortilla and the flavors of the fillings, ensuring your meal remains delicious.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the chicken or steak with grilled shrimp or tofu for a different protein source that still pairs well with the smoky chipotle seasoning. Instead of long-grain white rice, try using brown rice or quinoa for added fiber and a nuttier flavor. For a creamier guacamole, blend in a spoonful of Greek yogurt or sour cream without overpowering the fresh avocado taste. Toasting the tortillas directly on the grill adds a subtle char and enhances their smoky flavor, offering a nice contrast to the fillings.
Allergies
Your Chipotle Burrito may pose allergy risks due to common allergens like dairy from shredded Monterey Jack cheese and optional sour cream, as well as gluten found in the flour tortillas. Black beans and various spices such as garlic and onion powder could also trigger sensitivities in some individuals. Always check ingredient labels and consult with a healthcare professional if you have specific food allergies.
Why this recipe?
Chipotle's Burrito menu is popular for its customizable options including fresh ingredients like cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and grilled meats that cater to diverse dietary preferences and tastes. The emphasis on quality, non-GMO ingredients and sustainable sourcing appeals to health-conscious customers seeking flavorful and responsible dining choices. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate the satisfying balance of bold flavors and texture combinations in your own kitchen, providing a cost-effective and personalized meal experience. Replicating Chipotle's Burrito can enhance your culinary skills while enjoying a beloved fast-casual favorite anytime.