The Burrito with Knockout Toppings from Qdoba features a warm flour tortilla filled with seasoned grilled chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and melted cheese, topped with fresh pico de gallo, zesty guacamole, and tangy queso sauce, delivering a flavorful and satisfying handheld feast.
Equipments
- Grill or griddle
- Rice cooker
- Saucepan or small pot
- Cheese melter or microwave
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Mixing bowls
- Ladle or spoon
- Tongs
- Serving spoon
- Spatula
- Tortilla warmer or microwave
- Assembly table or clean counter
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt
- Black pepper
- 2 cups cooked cilantro-lime rice
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or cheddar)
- 1 cup pico de gallo
- 1 cup guacamole
- 1 cup queso sauce
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
- 2 limes
Boneless, skinless chicken breast is essential for tender, juicy grilled chicken; marinate it with chili powder, cumin, garlic, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to build rich flavor. Use cooked cilantro-lime rice to add a zesty, aromatic base that complements the spicy chicken and fresh toppings. Rinse canned black beans thoroughly to reduce sodium and enhance creaminess. Fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, and tangy queso sauce are key for authentic taste, so fresh ingredients will deliver the best results. This Burrito with Knockout Toppings from Qdoba copycat recipe helps you recreate a flavorful handheld feast at home.
Instructions
- Preheat grill or griddle.
- Mix olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Coat chicken breast with spice mixture.
- Grill chicken until cooked through; let rest and then slice.
- Cook cilantro-lime rice in rice cooker; keep warm.
- Heat black beans in saucepan.
- Shred cheese.
- Warm tortillas using tortilla warmer or microwave.
- Melt cheese in cheese melter or microwave (if desired).
- Chop fresh cilantro and cut limes into wedges.
- Arrange assembly table or clean counter with all fillings and toppings.
- Lay warm flour tortilla flat.
- Add a scoop of cilantro-lime rice along center.
- Add black beans on top of rice.
- Add sliced grilled chicken.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheese (or melted cheese).
- Spoon on pico de gallo.
- Add a generous dollop of guacamole.
- Drizzle queso sauce over the top.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro.
- Squeeze lime juice over fillings.
- Fold and roll burrito tightly.
- Serve immediately.
Substitution
The Burrito with Knockout Toppings from Qdoba copycat menu captures the essence of the original with grilled chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, melted cheese, and vibrant toppings like pico de gallo, guacamole, and queso sauce. If fresh cilantro is unavailable, you can substitute with fresh parsley for a similar herbaceous flavor. Should you lack a grill or griddle, a stovetop skillet offers an effective alternative for cooking the chicken evenly. For tortillas, whole wheat or corn options work well if you prefer a different texture or have dietary restrictions. Your choice of cheese can also be flexible--Monterey Jack or cheddar both melt nicely and maintain the intended creamy texture.
Tips
Make sure to let the grilled chicken rest before slicing to retain its juices and keep it tender. Warm tortillas sufficiently to make them pliable and prevent cracking during wrapping. Keep all fillings and toppings organized at your assembly station to streamline the burrito building process. You'll get the best flavor by squeezing fresh lime juice over the fillings just before folding and rolling your burrito.
Nutritions
The Burrito with Knockout Toppings from Qdoba delivers a balanced mix of macronutrients, featuring lean protein from grilled chicken and a good dose of fiber from black beans and cilantro-lime rice. The healthy fats in the guacamole combined with calcium-rich cheese contribute to satiety and nutrient density. Your meal also provides antioxidants and vitamins, courtesy of fresh pico de gallo and cilantro, which support overall health. This handheld feast offers a convenient, flavorful way to enjoy a nutrient-rich lunch or dinner.
Storage
Store leftover burritos in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days to maintain freshness of the grilled chicken, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and toppings. Keep guacamole and pico de gallo separate in small containers to prevent sogginess and add them just before reheating. When ready to eat, warm your burrito in the microwave or on a grill to restore the melted cheese and tortilla's softness.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap grilled chicken for seasoned grilled steak or sauteed shrimp to vary your protein choice while maintaining bold flavors. Use brown rice or cauliflower rice instead of cilantro-lime rice to cater to different dietary preferences or add texture variety. Consider substituting black beans with pinto beans or refried beans for a creamier filling and different flavor profile. Try warming tortillas on a dry skillet for a crispier texture compared to using a tortilla warmer or microwave.
Allergies
The Burrito with Knockout Toppings contains common allergens such as dairy from the melted cheese and queso sauce, and gluten from the flour tortillas, which can cause reactions for individuals with lactose intolerance or gluten sensitivity. The presence of black beans and spices like chili powder and cumin may trigger allergies or digestive discomfort in some people. To ensure your safety, always check ingredient labels and communicate any food allergies to the restaurant before ordering.
Why this recipe?
The Burrito with Knockout Toppings from Qdoba restaurant offers bold, flavorful ingredients like zesty chipotle queso, fresh guacamole, and signature salsas that elevate every bite. These unique toppings create a perfect balance of creamy, spicy, and savory tastes that satisfy cravings and enhance the classic burrito experience. Making a copycat version allows you to customize your meal with high-quality components, ensuring freshness and control over ingredients. Your homemade knockout burrito replicates Qdoba's flavor profile while providing a delicious and fun cooking challenge.