The Chicken Burrito from Chipotle features tender grilled chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, fresh salsa, and melted cheese, all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Equipments
- Grill or grill pan
- Saucepan
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
- Chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Cheese grater
- Small bowl
- Tongs
- Large skillet or flat griddle
- Aluminum foil
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless skinless chicken breast
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water
- 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 2 medium tomatoes
- 1 jalapeño pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 4 large flour tortillas
Use fresh, high-quality chicken breast for the best texture and flavor in your burrito. Season the chicken with a balanced blend of ground cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper to achieve an authentic Chipotle taste. Cooking the cilantro-lime rice with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro adds a vibrant, zesty flavor that complements the other ingredients. Make sure to drain and rinse black beans well to reduce excess sodium and improve taste. Your Chicken Burrito from Chipotle copycat menu will be both satisfying and true to the original when you pay attention to ingredient freshness and proper seasoning.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Add chicken and coat well. Marinate for 15–30 minutes.
- Preheat grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through. Let rest, then slice.
- In a saucepan, bring water to a boil. Add rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff rice with a fork. Stir in juice of 1 lime and 1/4 cup chopped cilantro.
- Drain and rinse black beans. Heat in a small bowl or saucepan until warmed.
- For salsa: Dice tomatoes, red onion, and jalapeño. Combine with 1/4 cup chopped cilantro and 1 tablespoon lime juice in a small bowl.
- Grate cheddar cheese.
- Warm flour tortillas on a skillet or griddle for about 30 seconds per side.
- Layer each tortilla with cilantro-lime rice, black beans, grilled chicken, salsa, and shredded cheese.
- Fold in the sides of each tortilla and roll up tightly to form burritos.
- (Optional) Wrap burritos in foil and place on a warm skillet for 1–2 minutes per side to seal and heat through.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Chicken Burrito from Chipotle copycat menu can be easily customized to suit your taste or dietary needs by substituting ingredients like brown rice for white rice or using a dairy-free cheese alternative. If you don't have a grill or grill pan, cooking the chicken in a large skillet or flat griddle with a bit of olive oil works well to achieve similar flavors. Black beans can be replaced with pinto beans or refried beans depending on availability and preference. Fresh salsa is simplified with chopped tomatoes, jalapeno, red onion, and cilantro, but you can adjust the spice level by reducing or omitting the jalapeno. Wrapping your burrito tightly in aluminum foil helps keep it warm and makes it easier to eat without spilling the fillings.
Tips
When marinating your chicken, ensure it is evenly coated with the spice mixture to infuse maximum flavor. Use a meat thermometer to check that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165degF (75degC) for safe consumption. Rinse the black beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve texture before heating. Warm your flour tortillas just before assembling to make them flexible and prevent tearing during rolling.
Nutritions
The Chicken Burrito from Chipotle provides a balanced mix of macronutrients, combining lean protein from grilled chicken breast with complex carbohydrates from cilantro-lime rice and black beans. The inclusion of fresh salsa and jalapeno adds vitamins A and C, while the cheddar cheese contributes calcium and fat content. Your meal benefits from heart-healthy olive oil and fiber-rich beans that support digestion and sustained energy levels. This burrito delivers approximately 600-700 calories, making it a satisfying and nutrient-dense option for lunch or dinner.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Burritos wrapped tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days, ensuring the grilled chicken and cheese stay moist and flavorful. For longer storage, wrap burritos individually and freeze, reheating in a skillet or microwave until heated through.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the chicken breast for boneless thigh meat to add extra juiciness and flavor. Instead of using smoked paprika, try chipotle powder for a smoky and slightly spicy kick. For a creamier texture, consider adding a spoonful of sour cream or guacamole inside the burrito before folding. Warming the wrapped burritos in foil on the grill or skillet helps melt the cheese evenly and keeps your burrito warm longer.
Allergies
The Chicken Burrito contains common allergens such as dairy from shredded cheddar cheese and gluten found in the flour tortillas. Black beans and spices like cumin and chili powder can cause digestive sensitivities or allergic reactions in some individuals. Be sure to check ingredients thoroughly to ensure your safety if you have allergies to dairy, gluten, or specific spices.
Why this recipe?
The Chicken Burrito from Chipotle is loved for its perfectly balanced combination of tender, marinated chicken, fresh vegetables, and flavorful rice wrapped in a warm tortilla. Its customizable options allow you to tailor ingredients to your taste, enhancing the overall eating experience. Making a copycat version at home is worth trying because it saves money while giving you control over ingredient quality and portion size. Your homemade Chicken Burrito can replicate the authentic, satisfying taste of Chipotle's version with added personalization.