If you’re looking for a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that you can prep in advance, the Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos are your answer! Packed with tender chicken, creamy avocado, tangy ranch dressing, and a medley of fresh ingredients, these burritos are a perfect combination of flavor and convenience. Ideal for lunch, dinner, or as part of your weekly meal prep, this recipe is a time-saving, crowd-pleasing dish that will leave you feeling satisfied without the guilt.
Here’s a complete guide to making these flavorful burritos, along with tips on how to prep them ahead of time and store them for later.
Why You’ll Love Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos
- Perfect for Meal Prep: You can make several burritos at once and store them in the fridge or freezer for a quick grab-and-go meal.
- Healthy & Nutritious: These burritos are packed with lean protein, healthy fats, and fresh vegetables, making them a balanced meal.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients to fit your taste or dietary preferences—these burritos are incredibly versatile.
- Full of Flavor: The combination of juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and tangy ranch dressing creates a mouthwatering experience in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or diced (grilled, roasted, or leftover rotisserie chicken works well)
- 1 large avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing (use homemade or store-bought)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- Optional: Sliced jalapeños, cilantro, or black beans for added flavor and texture
- Olive oil or butter (for crisping the burritos)
How to Make Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
- If using cooked chicken, shred or dice it into bite-sized pieces. You can use grilled chicken, rotisserie chicken, or even leftover baked chicken for this recipe.
- If you prefer to make your own chicken, season it with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin, then cook it in a pan until fully cooked and juicy.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, diced avocado, and ranch dressing. Toss everything together until the chicken and avocado are evenly coated with the dressing.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
- Lay out the tortillas: On a clean surface, place one tortilla at a time.
- Add the filling: Spread an even amount of the chicken-avocado-ranch mixture down the center of each tortilla.
- Top with veggies and cheese: Sprinkle shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion, and shredded cheese over the chicken mixture. If you like, add sliced jalapeños or black beans for an extra kick.
- Fold the burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it tightly from the bottom up, tucking in the sides as you go.
Step 4: Crisp the Burritos (Optional)
- For an extra layer of flavor and texture, you can crisp the burritos in a pan. Heat a little olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat and place the burritos seam-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy.
Step 5: Serve or Store
- Serve immediately: Enjoy the burritos warm with a side of salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
- Meal prep option: If prepping for later, wrap each burrito tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Tips for Meal Prep Success:
- Make it freezer-friendly: Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos are perfect for freezing. Just make sure to let them cool completely before wrapping them tightly in foil or plastic wrap. When ready to eat, thaw them overnight in the fridge and reheat in the microwave or skillet.
- Prevent sogginess: To avoid a soggy burrito, layer the shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado on top of the chicken mixture, and don’t overfill the burrito.
- Customize your burrito: These burritos are super flexible—add extras like cooked rice, black beans, corn, or sautéed bell peppers for a heartier meal. For a low-carb version, swap out the flour tortilla for a low-carb wrap or lettuce wrap.
Health Benefits of Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos:
- Lean Protein: Chicken provides a great source of lean protein, which is essential for muscle repair and keeping you full.
- Healthy Fats: Avocados are packed with heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and provide a creamy texture that replaces the need for heavy, calorie-laden sauces.
- Vitamins & Minerals: Fresh ingredients like tomatoes, lettuce, and onions add vital nutrients like vitamin C, potassium, and fiber to the burrito, making it a well-balanced meal.
Variations of Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos:
- Spicy Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos: Add sliced jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or spicy ranch dressing for extra heat.
- Southwest Style: Include black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of chili powder and cumin to give the burrito a Tex-Mex flair.
- Low-Carb Version: Swap the tortilla for large lettuce leaves or low-carb wraps to reduce carbs and calories.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled tofu, beans, or roasted vegetables for a delicious plant-based version.
Conclusion
Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos are the ultimate meal prep magic—delicious, easy to make, and full of fresh, vibrant flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy meal to pack for work, these burritos check all the boxes. With their creamy avocado, zesty ranch, and juicy chicken, they offer a satisfying, balanced meal that you can enjoy anytime. Best of all, they’re customizable, so you can tailor them to your taste and dietary preferences. Prep a batch ahead of time, and you’ll always have a tasty meal ready to go!