Ingredients
Scale
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon chipotle chili powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas (10–12 inch diameter)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1 cup shredded iceberg lettuce or mixed salad greens
- 1 medium tomato, diced
- 1/2 cup sliced red onion
- 1/4 cup fresh coriander (cilantro), chopped
- For the chipotle ranch sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Substitutions: If you prefer a lighter option, swap mayonnaise for extra Greek yogurt in the sauce. For a gluten-free version, use corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps. And if you can’t find chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika with a pinch of cayenne works beautifully to mimic the smoky heat.
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a small bowl, combine olive oil, chipotle chili powder, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to create a fragrant paste.
- Marinate the chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and rub the spice mixture all over them. Cover and leave to marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours if you have the time — the longer, the deeper the flavour.
- Make the chipotle ranch sauce: While the chicken marinates, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, chopped chipotle peppers, lime juice, dill, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Taste and adjust seasoning or heat as desired. Chill until ready to serve.
- Preheat your grill or grill pan: Heat to medium-high. You want a nice sear on the chicken without burning the spices.
- Grill the chicken: Cook the chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Look for those lovely grill marks and a slightly charred edge — that smoky flavour is what makes this so special.
- Rest and slice: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This keeps the juices locked in. Then slice into thin strips or bite-sized pieces.
- Warm the tortillas: While the chicken rests, warm your tortillas on the grill or in a dry pan for about 20 seconds each side — just enough to soften and become pliable without drying out.
- Assemble the burritos: Lay a tortilla flat and spread a generous spoonful of chipotle ranch sauce down the centre. Top with grilled chicken slices, shredded cheese, lettuce, diced tomato, red onion, and coriander.
- Wrap it up: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll tightly from one end to the other. If you want, give the wrapped burrito a quick press on the grill for a minute or two to seal it and melt the cheese slightly.
- Serve immediately and enjoy: Cut in half if you like, and serve with extra chipotle ranch for dipping. I always find these moments are best shared with a cup of strong tea or a crisp cider, just like back home.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: International
