This Zesty Chicken Avocado Burrito is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or meal prep enthusiasts looking for a satisfying, protein-packed option. Tender grilled chicken combines with creamy avocado, sweet corn, and a tangy ranch drizzle, all wrapped in a soft tortilla. Each bite delivers an irresistible combination of textures and flavors—from the juicy chicken to the buttery avocado and the fresh crunch of vegetables. These handheld delights are guaranteed to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Quick Info
- Servings: 4 burritos
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Calories: 450 per burrito
- Fat: 28g per serving
- Cuisine: Mexican-American Fusion
The History Behind Chicken Avocado Burritos
The burrito’s origins trace back to northern Mexico, where wheat tortillas were used to wrap various fillings for a portable meal. Traditional Mexican burritos were simpler affairs, often containing just beans and meat, sometimes with cheese.
The evolution of the burrito we know today largely happened in the United States, particularly in California, where the San Francisco Mission-style burrito emerged in the 1960s. These larger, more ingredient-packed versions became wildly popular and spawned countless variations.
The chicken avocado burrito represents a modern, health-conscious evolution of this culinary tradition. Avocados, native to Mexico and Central America, have been consumed for thousands of years but have seen a dramatic rise in popularity in recent decades due to their creamy texture and nutritional benefits. The addition of ranch dressing represents the American fusion element, bringing a tangy, herbaceous component that complements the other ingredients perfectly.
This particular style of burrito, with its emphasis on fresh ingredients and balanced macronutrients, embodies the contemporary approach to quick meals that don’t sacrifice flavor or nutritional value. It satisfies both traditional tastes and modern dietary preferences, making it a versatile option for various occasions.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect Balance of Flavors – The combination of seasoned chicken, creamy avocado, sweet corn, and tangy ranch creates a multi-dimensional flavor experience that satisfies all your cravings.
- Make-Ahead Friendly – These burritos can be assembled in advance and wrapped tightly for grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.
- Customizable Components – Each element can be adjusted to your preferences—make the chicken spicier, add extra vegetables, or swap in your favorite sauce.
- Crowd-Pleasing Meal – The familiar flavors appeal to both adults and children, making this a safe bet for family dinners or casual gatherings.
- Nutritionally Balanced – With lean protein, healthy fats from avocado, and fresh vegetables, these burritos deliver a well-rounded meal in one convenient package.
- Minimal Cleanup – As a handheld meal requiring just one pan for cooking the chicken, these burritos minimize kitchen cleanup time.
- Freezer-Friendly – Assembled burritos (without the ranch drizzle) freeze beautifully for quick meals when you’re short on time.
Ingredients
For the Burrito Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (grilled chicken works great!)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or roasted)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large tortillas
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- If cooking chicken fresh, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Let cool slightly before chopping or shredding.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, corn, black beans (if using), diced tomatoes, and green onions.
- Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Assemble the Burritos:
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable (about 10-15 seconds in the microwave).
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread 2 tablespoons of ranch dressing in the center.
- Add approximately 1 cup of the chicken-avocado mixture in a line down the center of the tortilla.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll from the bottom up, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a tight burrito.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- If desired, warm the assembled burritos in a pan over medium heat or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy on the outside.
Serve:
- Cut the burritos in half diagonally to showcase the colorful filling.
- Serve with additional ranch dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Recipe Notes
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver for this recipe. Simply shred and season to taste.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with extra black beans and roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Storage Information: Store assembled burritos wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, add the ranch dressing just before serving.
- Freezing Instructions: To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
- Tortilla Tip: If your tortillas are breaking when rolling, warm them slightly longer or cover them with a damp paper towel in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Avocado Selection: Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the perfect ripeness. If preparing in advance, select slightly firmer avocados as they will continue to ripen.
These Zesty Chicken Avocado Burritos offer the perfect combination of protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables in one convenient package. The creamy avocado provides a buttery contrast to the seasoned chicken, while the ranch dressing adds a tangy finish that brings everything together. Whether you’re meal prepping for a busy week or feeding a hungry family, these burritos deliver restaurant-quality flavor with minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Burrito Filling:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped (grilled chicken works great!)
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup corn (canned, frozen, or roasted)
- 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained (optional)
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped green onions
- 1 tsp lime juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large tortillas
Instructions
Prepare the Filling:
- If cooking chicken fresh, season chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and your favorite spices. Grill or pan-sear until cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Let cool slightly before chopping or shredding.
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, corn, black beans (if using), diced tomatoes, and green onions.
- Drizzle with lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss gently to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.
Assemble the Burritos:
- Warm the tortillas slightly to make them more pliable (about 10-15 seconds in the microwave).
- Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread 2 tablespoons of ranch dressing in the center.
- Add approximately 1 cup of the chicken-avocado mixture in a line down the center of the tortilla.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll from the bottom up, tucking in the sides as you go, to create a tight burrito.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling.
- If desired, warm the assembled burritos in a pan over medium heat or in a 350°F oven for 5-7 minutes until slightly crispy on the outside.
Serve:
- Cut the burritos in half diagonally to showcase the colorful filling.
- Serve with additional ranch dressing on the side for dipping or drizzling.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- Chicken Options: Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic time-saver for this recipe. Simply shred and season to taste.
- Make It Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the chicken with extra black beans and roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian option.
- Storage Information: Store assembled burritos wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For best results, add the ranch dressing just before serving.
- Freezing Instructions: To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then in foil. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in a 350°F oven for 15-20 minutes.
- Tortilla Tip: If your tortillas are breaking when rolling, warm them slightly longer or cover them with a damp paper towel in the microwave for 15-20 seconds.
- Avocado Selection: Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the perfect ripeness. If preparing in advance, select slightly firmer avocados as they will continue to ripen.