Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breast, sliced into thin strips
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • 0.5 tsp cumin
  • 0.5 cup prepared ranch dressing
  • 2 tbsp chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely minced
  • 1 tsp fresh lime juice
  • 0.5 tsp dried cilantro
  • 4 extra-large (12-inch) flour tortillas
  • 2 cups romaine lettuce, shredded
  • 1 cup Roma tomatoes, diced and drained
  • 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 0.25 tsp cracked black pepper

Instructions:

  1. Prep the chicken. Pat the 1.5 lbs chicken breast dry with paper towels to ensure a sear rather than a steam.
  2. Season the strips. Toss the chicken with 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp garlic powder, 0.5 tsp cumin, 0.5 tsp salt, and 0.25 tsp pepper. Note: Coating every surface ensures flavor in every single bite.
  3. Sear the protein. Heat 2 tbsp avocado oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add chicken and cook for 6 minutes until golden and crackling on the edges.
  4. Whisk the sauce. In a small bowl, combine 0.5 cup ranch dressing, 2 tbsp minced chipotle peppers, 1 tsp lime juice, and 0.5 tsp dried cilantro. Note: This creates a velvety, spicy emulsion.
  5. Warm the tortillas. Microwave the tortillas for 15 seconds until soft and pliable. This prevents them from snapping when you roll.
  6. Layer the base. Spread a tablespoon of sauce in the center of each tortilla, then top with a handful of romaine and diced Roma tomatoes.
  7. Add the fillings. Divide the grilled chicken among the four tortillas and top each with a generous sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese.
  8. Roll and seal. Fold the sides in, then roll from the bottom up, keeping the tension tight until the seam is tucked underneath.
  9. The final crisp. Place the burritos seam side down in a clean, hot skillet. Press down with a heavy plate or second pan for 2 minutes until the tortilla is browned and shatters when tapped.
  10. Rest and serve. Let the burritos sit for 2 minutes before slicing. Note: This allows the cheese to set and prevents the fillings from falling out.