Creamy, cheesy, flavorful Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos – a quick, hearty, satisfying, delicious lunch or dinner packed with bold taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, no matter how simple. From tender chicken to vibrant cilantro, each element brings something special—whether it’s color, creamy texture, savory depth, or a fresh pop. Here’s what you’ll need to make these Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos impossible to resist:
- Cooked, shredded chicken (2 cups): Rotisserie chicken is a fabulous shortcut, but any leftover chicken works beautifully.
- Ripe avocado, diced (1): Look for one that’s just soft to the touch for creamy, dreamy bites in every bite.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (½ cup): Adds gooey melt and a rich, tangy flavor—try sharp cheddar for extra zing.
- Ranch dressing (¼ cup): The secret sauce—literally! Bottled or homemade both work and bring the creamy tang these burritos love.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (¼ cup): Gives these burritos a burst of freshness and color, enhancing their Tex-Mex flair.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Just a pinch brings savory warmth that ties the filling together.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Don’t overlook seasoning—taste as you mix and adjust for perfect balance!
- Large flour tortillas (4): The cozy wrap that keeps everything deliciously contained—go big so there’s plenty of room for filling.
How to Make Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos
Step 1: Mix the Filling
Grab a roomy mixing bowl and combine your shredded chicken, diced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper all at once. Stir gently but thoroughly—tossing just until the avocados are coated but still chunky and everything looks evenly combined. This is where all those flavors get to know each other!
Step 2: Warm the Tortillas
To make your tortillas soft and pliable (which means no cracking or tearing when you roll), briefly warm them. You can stack them on a plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and microwave for 20-30 seconds. This simple step makes wrapping up your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos neat and easy.
Step 3: Fill and Roll
Scoop an even portion of the chicken-avocado mixture onto the lower third of each tortilla. Fold in each side over the filling, then roll from the bottom up, tucking in everything as you go. The goal is a snug, burrito-shaped bundle that holds together whether you eat it now or pack it away for later.
Step 4: Toast for Crispiness (Optional)
If you like your Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos with a golden, crispy exterior (and who doesn’t?), place them seam-side down in a dry skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side until lightly toasted and irresistible. This added step takes just a few minutes and is more than worth it!
Step 5: Serve or Store
Your burritos are now ready to be devoured warm, or you can refrigerate them for a quick lunch or light dinner on the go. Packed or plated, these make any meal feel special without a lot of effort.
How to Serve Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos
Garnishes
Top these burritos with a sprinkle of extra chopped cilantro, some sliced avocado, or even a drizzle of more ranch for extra richness. If you love a little heat, scatter on some thin-sliced jalapeño or your favorite hot sauce. These final touches add a vibrant color and punch of fresh flavor to your plate.
Side Dishes
A fresh, zesty salad, classic Mexican rice, or a handful of crunchy tortilla chips are all fabulous with Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos. Even a simple fruit salad or charred sweet corn can round out the meal, making it feel like a complete and cheerful feast.
Creative Ways to Present
Slice the burritos on a diagonal and arrange them on a platter for an inviting, shareable spread. If you’re hosting, offer a burrito bar where everyone can add favorite extras like salsa, pico de gallo, extra cheese, or shredded lettuce. They’re even fun cut into bite-sized pieces for party snacks!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap any leftover Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos snugly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the fridge for up to 2 days. The avocado might darken slightly, but the flavors remain intact, making your next meal just as tasty as the first.
Freezing
Yes, you can freeze these burritos! Skip the avocado if you’re prepping ahead, or add it fresh after reheating. Wrap tightly in foil, then place in a zip-top bag in the freezer. They’ll keep well for up to 2 months.
Reheating
For best results, thaw frozen burritos in the fridge overnight, then reheat in a skillet over medium heat for a crispy tortilla. You can also microwave them for convenience—just be sure to unwrap the foil and place a damp towel over the burrito to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of cheese in Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos?
Absolutely! Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or even mozzarella work great—just choose a cheese that melts nicely and fits your flavor mood.
How do I keep my burritos from getting soggy?
Let the filling cool a bit before wrapping and try toasting the burritos in a skillet for a crispy finish. This forms a light crust that helps keep everything together and delicious.
Are Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos good for meal prep?
Definitely! Just prep the filling ahead and roll fresh when needed, or assemble the burritos entirely (without avocado if freezing) for make-ahead lunches and dinners you’ll look forward to.
What can I add for a spicy kick?
Fold in diced jalapeños, a splash of hot sauce, or add pepper jack cheese to the mix for some extra heat that pairs beautifully with the creamy ranch and avocado.
Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
Sure! Swap the chicken for black beans or grilled veggies for an equally tasty, satisfying vegetarian version of Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos.
Final Thoughts
These Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos are truly a staple you’ll come back to again and again—fresh, easy, and just plain crave-worthy. Give them a try, get creative with your add-ins, and let them win over your lunchbox or dinner table. Happy rolling!
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Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos Recipe
- Total Time: 15 mins
- Yield: 4 burritos
Description
Creamy, cheesy, flavorful Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos – a quick, hearty, satisfying, delicious lunch or dinner packed with bold taste.
Ingredients
Main Filling
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Tortillas
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Mix the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese, ranch dressing, chopped cilantro, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir gently until everything is evenly mixed and the avocado is just incorporated, making sure not to mash it too much.
- Prep the Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or briefly on a dry skillet until just pliable. This makes them easier to roll without tearing.
- Assemble the Burritos: Divide the chicken and avocado mixture evenly among the four tortillas. Place the filling in a line down the center of each tortilla. Fold in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up to form burritos.
- Toast the Burritos (Optional): Heat a skillet over medium heat. Place the burritos seam-side down and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, pressing lightly, until the tortillas are golden and crispy. This step adds extra texture and flavor but can be skipped if you prefer a soft burrito.
- Serve: Enjoy the burritos warm, straight from the skillet, or chilled for a convenient grab-and-go meal. They pair well with extra ranch on the side, salsa, or your favorite hot sauce.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken or any leftover cooked chicken for a speedy prep.
- Feel free to swap in Monterey Jack or pepper jack cheese for a different flavor.
- For extra veggies, add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or thinly sliced red onion before rolling up.
- To make ahead, wrap the burritos tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- Make it gluten-free by using gluten-free tortillas.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 5 mins
- Category: Main-course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 520mg
- Fat: 19g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 65mg