Chipotle Mexican Grill has become a household name in the fast‐casual dining industry, largely due to its commitment to fresh, high-quality ingredients and its “build-your-own” approach to Mexican cuisine. Among its diverse offerings, the Burrito Bowl stands out as a favorite for those seeking a customizable, nutritious meal that caters to various dietary preferences—from keto and low-carb to vegetarian and high-protein diets.
In this comprehensive guide, we explore everything you need to know about the Chipotle Burrito Bowl Menu, including its menu options, pricing, customization tips, and even some creative hacks to maximize your meal.
Brief History of Chipotle and Its Iconic Burrito Bowl
Founded on the principles of “Food with Integrity,” Chipotle has built its reputation by offering fresh, responsibly sourced ingredients with a focus on sustainability and quality. Originally known for its burritos, the chain expanded its menu to include bowls, tacos, and salads, giving customers the flexibility to create meals tailored to their preferences.
From Burritos to Bowls
The evolution from traditional burritos to burrito bowls reflects changing consumer habits. Many customers now prefer a meal without the tortilla, which not only reduces carbohydrates but also allows for a greater volume of fresh toppings. The Burrito Bowl has become synonymous with customizable, nutrient-dense meals—ideal for those looking for balanced nutrition without sacrificing flavor. Chipotle’s commitment to offering detailed nutritional information and a wide range of customizable options has made the Burrito Bowl a standout on its menu.
What Is a Chipotle Burrito Bowl?
At its core, a Chipotle Burrito Bowl is a deconstructed burrito. Instead of being wrapped in a tortilla, all the components are served in a bowl. This format gives you the freedom to enjoy every ingredient without the extra calories and carbs that a tortilla brings.
Core Components
A typical Chipotle Burrito Bowl includes:
- Base Options:
- Rice: Choose between white rice or brown rice, both typically seasoned with lime and cilantro for a burst of flavor.
- Salad Greens: For those opting for a lighter, low-carb alternative, a bed of crisp romaine lettuce or mixed greens serves as an excellent base.
- Protein Options:
Chipotle offers several protein choices to suit various tastes and dietary needs:- Chicken: Marinated in adobo and grilled to perfection.
- Steak: Juicy, marinated steak grilled to a tender finish.
- Barbacoa: Slow-cooked beef with a rich blend of spices.
- Carnitas: Seasoned pork that is slow-braised for maximum flavor.
- Sofritas: A popular vegan option made from tofu, spiced and braised.
- Beans:
Choose from black beans or pinto beans, which add fiber and protein to your meal. - Toppings and Extras:
Customize your bowl with a variety of toppings:- Salsas: Options typically include fresh tomato salsa, roasted chili-corn salsa, tomatillo-green salsa, and even a spicier red salsa.
- Fajita Veggies: Sautéed bell peppers and onions that add texture and flavor.
- Guacamole: Made fresh with avocados, lime, and cilantro, guacamole is a customer favorite—even though it sometimes comes at an extra charge.
- Cheese, Sour Cream, and Queso Blanco: For an extra layer of creamy richness.
- Additional Options: Lettuce, chips (as a side or even used to create a DIY burrito), and other add-ons to further customize your bowl.
Customization: Make It Your Own
One of the key attractions of the Chipotle Burrito Bowl Menu is its high degree of customization. With so many options available, you can craft a meal that not only satisfies your hunger but also meets your dietary goals.
Step-by-Step Customization
- Choose Your Base:
Start with your preferred base—whether that’s the cilantro-lime white rice, hearty brown rice, or a bed of fresh salad greens for a lower-calorie option. - Select Your Protein:
Decide which protein best suits your taste and nutritional needs. For example, if you’re looking for a lean option, grilled chicken might be the way to go. If you’re a vegan, opt for sofritas. - Pick Your Beans:
Both black and pinto beans offer nutritional benefits and a delicious complement to your bowl. They add fiber and plant-based protein, making them an excellent choice for nearly every diet. - Add Your Toppings:
Now comes the fun part—toppings! Choose from a variety of salsas that range from mild to spicy. Add fajita veggies for extra crunch and flavor, and don’t forget a generous scoop of guacamole for creaminess and healthy fats. - Extras and Modifications:
- Portion Control: Depending on your dietary goals, you can adjust the portion sizes. For a lower-carb meal, consider swapping rice for extra beans or veggies.
- Calorie Boost: If you’re looking for more energy or have a higher calorie requirement, pile on extra proteins or cheeses.
- Special Requests: Chipotle’s in-store and app ordering system even allows you to request specific modifications, ensuring your meal is just the way you like it.
Pro Tip: The DIY Burrito Hack
For those looking to maximize their meal, consider ordering a burrito bowl with a tortilla on the side. This hack, popularized by content creators like Tom Yanoshik, lets you create a burrito out of your bowl. Simply fill the tortilla with about half of your bowl’s contents and enjoy the rest as a side, effectively giving you two meals for the price of one. Melted cheese can even be used to seal your homemade burrito for an extra touch of deliciousness.
Chipotle Burrito Bowl Menu with Prices
Base Price:
The starting price for a Chipotle burrito bowl is typically around $9.35. This base price includes your choice of rice, beans, protein, and basic toppings.
Premium Protein Upgrade:
If you opt for premium proteins like steak, barbacoa, or chicken al pastor, expect an additional charge ranging from $2.50 to $3.00.
Extra Toppings:
Custom extras such as guacamole, queso blanco, or extra cheese are usually available for an added fee, generally between $0.60 to $1.75 per ingredient.
Final Cost:
Depending on your choices, a fully loaded burrito bowl can range anywhere from $11.00 to over $15.00 in some locations. Prices can vary based on regional differences and current promotions.
Ordering Experience: Online and In-Store
Chipotle’s digital ordering system is designed to simplify the customization process. Here’s how you can make the most of your ordering experience:
Ordering Through the App or Website
Step-by-Step Process:
- Select Your Meal: Choose the “Burrito Bowl” option from the menu.
- Customize Your Base: Pick your preferred base, whether it’s white rice, brown rice, or salad greens.
- Protein Selection: Choose from the variety of protein options available.
- Add Beans and Toppings: Select your choice of beans and pile on the toppings such as salsa, cheese, sour cream, and guacamole.
- Review and Customize Further: Check your nutritional information if you’re tracking your macros, and make any final adjustments.
- Place Your Order: Complete your order for pickup or delivery.
In-Store Experience
If you prefer ordering in person, Chipotle’s in-store service still emphasizes customization:
Interactive Counter:
Watch as your ingredients are assembled in front of you, allowing you to request adjustments on the spot.
Customer Service:
Staff are generally well-informed about menu details and can offer suggestions based on your dietary preferences or flavor goals.
Creative Hacks and Tips for Maximizing Your Meal
Beyond the standard ordering options, Chipotle has inspired a number of creative hacks that allow you to get even more value—and flavor—from your meal.
The DIY Burrito Hack
As mentioned earlier, one popular hack is to order your burrito bowl with a tortilla on the side. Here’s how to do it:
- Step 1: Order your bowl as usual but request a tortilla on the side.
- Step 2: Once you receive your meal, use half of the bowl’s contents to fill the tortilla, creating a homemade burrito.
- Step 3: Enjoy the burrito immediately and save the remaining bowl for later, effectively turning one meal into two.
- Step 4: For an extra twist, dip the burrito in a side of melted cheese or a chipotle-inspired sauce for added flavor.
Enhancing Flavors with Extra Toppings
Double Up on Guacamole:
Although guacamole comes at an extra cost, its creamy texture and healthy fats make it a worthwhile addition. Consider asking for extra guac if you love that fresh, tangy flavor.
Mix Your Salsas:
Combining two or more salsas can create a unique flavor profile. For instance, mixing fresh tomato salsa with a touch of red salsa can add both freshness and a spicy kick.
Customize Your Cheese:
If you’re a cheese lover, don’t hesitate to add extra shredded cheese or even queso blanco for a richer experience.
Balancing Flavors and Textures
A well-balanced burrito bowl should have a mix of textures and flavors:
Crunch vs. Cream:
Crisp lettuce and crunchy fajita veggies contrast nicely with the creamy textures of guacamole and sour cream.
Heat vs. Freshness:
The spice from red salsa or barbacoa can be offset by the cooling effect of fresh tomato salsa or a squeeze of lime.
Protein and Veggie Balance:
Ensure that your bowl isn’t overloaded with any one ingredient; a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fresh vegetables is key to a satisfying meal.
Comparing the Burrito Bowl with Other Chipotle Favorites
While the Burrito Bowl is a standout item, it’s part of a broader menu that caters to a wide array of tastes. Let’s briefly compare it with some of the other popular offerings at Chipotle.
Burritos vs. Burrito Bowls
Burritos:
Wrapped in a soft flour tortilla, traditional burritos are convenient and portable but can be higher in calories due to the tortilla.
Burrito Bowls:
By removing the tortilla, the bowl offers a lighter option with more emphasis on the fresh ingredients and customizable components.
Tacos and Salads
Tacos:
Served in soft corn tortillas, tacos are a great way to sample a variety of flavors in smaller, bite-sized portions.
Salads:
For those looking for a very light, nutrient-dense option, the salad offers the same high-quality ingredients as the burrito bowl but with a focus on greens and a lower caloric profile.
Lifestyle Bowls
Chipotle also offers specialized lifestyle bowls designed for specific diets such as Keto, Whole30®, and high-protein needs. These bowls are pre-configured to align with certain nutritional goals but still allow for a degree of customization. They serve as an excellent alternative for those with strict dietary requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What exactly is included in a Chipotle burrito bowl?
A typical Chipotle burrito bowl includes a base (rice or salad greens), your choice of protein (such as chicken, steak, barbacoa, carnitas, or sofritas), beans, and a variety of toppings like salsas, guacamole, cheese, sour cream, and fajita veggies.
Can I make my Chipotle burrito bowl healthier?
Absolutely. By choosing lean proteins, skipping or reducing high-calorie toppings, and opting for extra veggies or a salad base, you can tailor your bowl to be both nutritious and satisfying.
Is the burrito bowl gluten-free?
Yes, many Chipotle bowls are naturally gluten-free. However, always double-check with the staff regarding cross-contamination if you have severe gluten sensitivities.
How do I order a burrito bowl with extra customization?
Whether ordering online via the Chipotle app or in-store, you can customize your order by selecting each ingredient individually.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the insider information and tips on the Chipotle Burrito Bowl Menu, it’s time to head to your nearest Chipotle—order your customized bowl, savor the fresh flavors, and experience the ultimate in fast-casual dining. Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share your favorite combinations with friends and fellow Chipotle lovers!