Chicken Avocado Ranch Burritos

This chicken avocado ranch burrito recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something flavorful and filling without a lot of fuss. It balances juicy seasoned chicken with fresh veggies and creamy avocado for a satisfying meal everyone will love.

I put this together one evening when I wanted an easy dinner that felt special and it quickly became a family favorite for a homemade fast food swap.

Ingredients

• Two boneless, skinless chicken breasts: for lean protein that cooks quickly
• One ripe avocado diced: for creamy texture and healthy fats choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for best ripeness
• One cup shredded lettuce: adds crunch and bright contrast pick crisp, fresh leaves
• One cup diced tomatoes: provide juicy sweetness use firm but ripe tomatoes for vibrant color
• One cup shredded cheese: optional but recommended for melty richness select a sharp cheddar or mild Monterey Jack
• Half a cup ranch dressing: either store-bought or homemade for a tangy, herbaceous finish
• Four large flour tortillas: soft and pliable tortillas work best to prevent breaking when rolled
• One teaspoon each of cumin, paprika, and garlic powder: for warm, smoky spice flavors
• Salt and black pepper to taste: for seasoning the chicken
• One tablespoon cooking oil: to sear the chicken and develop a golden crust

Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts evenly with cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Warm the cooking oil in a skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering. Cook the chicken breasts for 6 to 7 minutes on each side without moving them too much so they develop a nice brown crust. Confirm they are fully cooked and juicy inside by cutting into the thickest part. Remove from heat and slice or shred the chicken finely for easy rolling.

Prep the Fresh Ingredients:

While the chicken cooks, dice the avocado and tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Shred the lettuce finely so it layers well in the burritos. If using cheese, shred it now to have all fresh ingredients ready at hand for quick assembly.

Warm the Tortillas:

Heat each flour tortilla briefly in a dry skillet over medium heat or in the microwave just until warm and flexible. Warm tortillas roll easily and are less likely to tear or crack when folding.

Assemble the Burritos:

Lay one warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Start with a layer of shredded lettuce to create a fresh bed then add a generous amount of sliced or shredded chicken. Spoon on diced tomatoes and avocado pieces making sure the filling is evenly distributed but not overstuffed. Drizzle ranch dressing in a zigzag pattern over the top then sprinkle shredded cheese last as the final layer. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly from one end to the other, keeping the filling snugly inside.

Optional Toasting:

For a toasty, slightly crispy exterior, heat a clean skillet over medium heat and place the burritos seam side down. Press gently and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until golden brown and the cheese inside slightly melts. This step adds a delicious crunch but can be skipped if you prefer soft burritos.

I remember a weekend when my kids insisted on helping me dice the avocado and assemble each burrito it became a fun hands-on dinner tradition

Storage Tips

Store any leftover chicken and burrito fillings separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days to keep textures fresh. Wrap assembled burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and reheat in the oven to maintain their shape and avoid sogginess. Avoid storing fully assembled burritos with avocado inside for more than a day to prevent browning.

Ingredient Swaps

Try ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for an even quicker protein option Use Greek yogurt mixed with lime juice instead of ranch for a lighter dressing alternative Switch out flour tortillas for whole wheat or corn tortillas for added fiber and different flavor profiles

Serving Ideas

Serve burritos with a side of black beans or Mexican rice for a complete meal Add pickled jalapeños or fresh cilantro on top for extra zing and freshness Offer lime wedges to squeeze over just before eating for a bright, citrusy kick

This recipe brings creamy avocado and spicy chicken together for a quick flavorful meal your whole family will appreciate.

Frequently Asked Recipe Questions

→ How do I cook the chicken evenly?

Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat and cook chicken breasts for about 6-7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked. Avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking.

→ Can I make this burrito spicier?

Yes, add extra paprika or include chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicier kick while seasoning the chicken.

→ What’s the best way to keep tortillas soft?

Warm tortillas briefly in a dry skillet or microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel to make them pliable and prevent cracking while rolling.

→ Is toasting the burritos necessary?

Toasting is optional but recommended for a crispy texture and enhanced flavor. Simply sear each side in a hot skillet for 2-3 minutes.

→ Can I substitute the ranch dressing?

Absolutely! You can use sour cream, Greek yogurt mixed with herbs, or a vinaigrette for a different flavor profile.