Pin it
Turn basic items into an amazing chicken and avocado ranch burrito that's ready for those crazy weeknights. When seasoned chicken meets smooth avocado and zesty ranch, you'll get a taste explosion your whole family will go crazy for.
I whipped these burritos up when I needed something quick after work. They vanished so fast they've become our go-to Thursday meal when everyone's running around but still wants something homemade.
What You'll Need
- Boneless skinless chicken thighs: gives more moisture than breast meat and packs stronger flavor that works great with bold spices
- Taco seasoning packet: cuts down prep time and gives the same great taste every time you make it
- Flour tortillas: grab the big 10 inch ones so you can roll them properly
- Fresh avocados: pick ones that feel slightly soft when you gently squeeze them
- Mozzarella cheese: makes that wonderful stretchy pull when you bite in
- Sour cream: brings a cool tang that works with all the other flavors
- Ranch dressing: the unexpected hero that takes these burritos to another level
- Fresh cilantro: adds a pop of green and fresh flavor - use as much as you like
How To Make Them
- Cook Your Chicken:
- Pour some olive oil into a cast iron grill pan over medium heat. Cover chicken pieces completely with taco seasoning. Toss them in the hot pan until they're golden outside but still juicy inside, about 3-4 minutes. Let them sit a minute after cooking.
- Get Tortillas Ready:
- Heat your tortillas following the package directions until they're soft enough to fold. Don't skip this - cold tortillas will break when you roll them. I like to wrap mine in wet paper towels and zap for 30 seconds.
- Build Each Burrito:
- Take one warm tortilla and pile some chicken in the middle. Add chunks of avocado, handfuls of shredded mozzarella, a spoonful of sour cream, some ranch, and a pinch of cilantro leaves. Don't stuff too much or you'll have trouble rolling it up.
- Roll Them Properly:
- Pull the bottom edge up and over the filling, tucking it in snugly. Fold both sides toward the center, then keep rolling upward until closed. The tighter you roll, the better it'll stay together when cooking.
- Grill Until Done:
- Put your rolled burritos back in the hot grill pan. Cook about 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula to get nice grill marks and melt the cheese completely.
Pin it
Ranch dressing totally makes this dish shine. I found this out by accident when I ran out of salsa and needed something else. Its creamy zip went so well with the spicy chicken that we now make them this way all the time. My teens actually ask for "those ranch burritos" whenever their friends come over.
Prep Them Early
You can totally make these ahead of time. Just put them together, wrap each one in foil, and keep in the fridge up to 2 days. When you want to eat them, bake at 375°F for 15-18 minutes until hot and crispy outside. This sitting time actually lets the flavors mix together for an even tastier result.
Switch Things Up
While they're great as is, you can easily change things around. Try throwing in some black beans or corn for extra crunch and nutrients. Switch mozzarella for pepper jack if you want more heat. Going low-carb? Wrap everything in big lettuce leaves instead of tortillas. This recipe works as a starting point for whatever you feel like making in your kitchen.
Pin it
What To Serve With Them
These burritos are filling enough on their own but go great with simple sides. A basic green salad with vinaigrette makes a nice cool contrast. For a party spread, add some homemade guacamole, fresh salsa, and chips. Making them for dinner? A side of cilantro lime rice rounds everything out nicely.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I swap chicken thighs for breasts?
Sure, boneless chicken breasts work great too! They cook just as quickly and still come out juicy and delicious.
- → Is it possible to bake instead of grill these wraps?
Definitely! Pop them in the oven at 375°F for around 15-18 minutes till they're crispy and warmed through.
- → Can I prepare these wraps ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble them ahead, refrigerate, and grill or bake later when you're ready to eat.
- → What should I use if I don't have Ranch dressing?
No worries! Mix some sour cream with a little lemon juice or use any creamy dressing you have handy.
- → Can I throw in extra ingredients for variety?
Go for it! Add in extras like beans, sautéed bell peppers, or even a bit of hot sauce for more kick.