Burritos from El Pollo Loco feature tender, flame-grilled chicken, seasoned rice, refried beans, and fresh salsa wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla, delivering a flavorful and satisfying Mexican-inspired meal.
Equipments
- Grill
- Rice cooker
- Saucepan (for refried beans)
- Mixing bowls
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle or spoon
- Tortilla warmer or microwave
- Tongs
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
- 2 cups cooked seasoned rice
- 1 can (15 oz) refried beans
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup fresh salsa
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon taco seasoning or Mexican seasoning blend
When preparing burritos inspired by El Pollo Loco, choose boneless, skinless chicken thighs for juicier meat compared to breasts. Use seasoned rice that complements the taco or Mexican seasoning blend to enrich the flavors consistently. Refried beans are best heated gently in a saucepan to maintain their creamy texture without drying out. Fresh salsa adds brightness and moisture, so opt for a chunky, well-seasoned variety to enhance taste. Your burritos from the El Pollo Loco copycat menu will closely mimic the restaurant's signature taste by layering these carefully selected ingredients in warm, soft flour tortillas.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Season chicken with salt, black pepper, and taco/Mexican seasoning.
- Drizzle olive oil over the chicken.
- Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until cooked through.
- Remove chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
- Slice or dice the grilled chicken.
- While chicken cooks, warm refried beans in a saucepan over low heat.
- Prepare seasoned rice if not already cooked.
- Chop fresh salsa ingredients if making homemade salsa.
- Warm flour tortillas using a tortilla warmer or microwave.
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface or cutting board.
- Spoon a portion of rice onto the center of the tortilla.
- Add refried beans on top of the rice.
- Layer with grilled chicken.
- Top with fresh salsa.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up tightly.
- Repeat steps for remaining tortillas and fillings.
- Serve burritos warm.
Substitution
Burritos from El Pollo Loco copycat menu offer a delicious blend of flame-grilled chicken, seasoned rice, refried beans, and fresh salsa wrapped in warm flour tortillas. If fresh salsa is unavailable, you can substitute it with store-bought pico de gallo or a simple mix of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro. When using chicken thighs instead of breasts, cooking times may vary slightly, so ensure the internal temperature reaches 165degF (75degC) for food safety. If you do not have a grill, a grill pan or oven broiler can achieve similar charred flavors. Your tortillas can be warmed in a microwave or skillet if a tortilla warmer is not available.
Tips
Ensure the grill is properly preheated to medium-high before placing the chicken to achieve an even sear and prevent sticking. Let Your grilled chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to retain its juices and enhance tenderness. Warm the tortillas thoroughly using a tortilla warmer or microwave to make them more pliable and easier to roll without tearing. When layering ingredients, avoid overfilling the burrito to ensure it can be folded neatly and held securely while eating.
Nutritions
Burritos from El Pollo Loco provide a balanced combination of macronutrients, featuring high-quality protein from flame-grilled chicken which supports muscle maintenance and repair. The seasoned rice offers a source of complex carbohydrates, delivering sustained energy, while refried beans add both fiber and plant-based protein important for digestive health. Fresh salsa provides vitamins and antioxidants, enhancing the nutritional profile without adding excessive calories. Your meal is rich in flavor and nutrients, making it both satisfying and supportive of a healthy diet.
Storage
Store your burritos in an airtight container or tightly wrap them in aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent drying out. Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days, ensuring the chicken, rice, and beans are fully cooled before storage to reduce bacterial growth. Reheat wrapped burritos in the microwave or oven to retain moisture and flavor, making them enjoyable like freshly made.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute the flame-grilled chicken with shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled steak for a different protein option. Use brown rice or cilantro-lime rice instead of seasoned white rice to enhance the nutritional value and flavor profile. Swap refried beans for black beans or pinto beans cooked with garlic and onions to introduce varying textures and tastes. For an extra kick, consider adding a dollop of sour cream, guacamole, or shredded cheese before rolling your burrito.
Allergies
Burritos from El Pollo Loco contain ingredients that may trigger allergies, including wheat in the flour tortillas and potential soy or gluten components in the taco seasoning. The refried beans might also contain trace amounts of dairy or preservatives, depending on the brand used. If you have food allergies, be sure to check all ingredient labels and notify your server to avoid adverse reactions.
Why this recipe?
El Pollo Loco burritos are praised for their fresh ingredients, bold flavors, and customizable options featuring flame-grilled chicken, black beans, and zesty salsa. Customers appreciate the balance of hearty protein, vibrant vegetables, and authentic Mexican spices that deliver a satisfying and wholesome meal. Making a copycat version allows you to recreate the restaurant-quality taste at home with control over ingredient quality and portion size. Your homemade burrito can match the crave-worthy texture and flavor, making it a rewarding cooking experience.