Chipotle Mexican Grill has grown into a favorite spot for anyone craving fresh, customizable meals. With so many choices, newcomers often wonder which are the must try dishes in Chipotle. From the classic burrito bowl packed with bold flavors to tacos that let you mix proteins and toppings, the menu delivers both comfort and variety. Many fans swear by the creamy Chipotle guacamole, while others can’t decide between chicken and steak.
Whether you’re looking for hearty portions or lighter healthy options at Chipotle, there’s always something worth exploring. This guide highlights the best Chipotle menu items you should not miss.
Best Chipotle Menu Items You Should Try
If you’re visiting for the first time or want to switch up your usual order, these are the best Chipotle menu items worth trying. Each dish can be customized, but these classics remain favorites.
Burrito Bowl
The Chipotle burrito bowl is one of the most popular choices. It comes without the tortilla, making it lighter but still filling. You can mix rice, beans, protein, salsas, and toppings in countless ways.
Classic Burrito
The burrito is a signature Chipotle dish. Wrapped in a warm tortilla, it’s loaded with your choice of protein, rice, beans, and extras. It’s a go-to for anyone who wants a hearty, handheld meal.
Tacos
Chipotle tacos are perfect if you prefer smaller portions or want to try different proteins in one order. Soft or crispy shells can be filled with steak, chicken, barbacoa, or veggies.
Guacamole
The creamy Chipotle guacamole is a side you should not skip. Made fresh daily, it pairs well with chips or adds extra flavor to bowls and burritos.
Salad Bowl
For those watching calories, the salad bowl is a strong option. It comes with a base of romaine lettuce topped with protein, beans, and salsa.
Quesadilla
Though it started as a digital-only item, the quesadilla is now widely enjoyed. It’s cheesy, crisp, and comes with sides like sour cream or salsa for dipping.
Also read – What Is The Best Ingredient Combo At Chipotle Mexican Grill?
Comparing Popular Protein Choices
Choosing a protein at Chipotle can change the entire flavor of your meal. Two of the most debated picks are Chipotle chicken vs steak.
- Chicken: Known for its smoky seasoning, it’s lean, flavorful, and usually the lowest in calories.
- Steak: A bit richer and more filling, with a bold grilled taste. Great for anyone who wants extra protein and a hearty bite.
Other favorites include barbacoa, which is slow-cooked and tender, and carnitas, offering a savory, seasoned pork option.
If you’re curious about nutrition before ordering, the Chipotle calorie calculator is a handy tool. It lets you build your meal online and see the total calories, protein, and macros based on every ingredient you choose.
| Protein | Flavor Profile | Texture | Calories (approx per serving) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicken | Smoky, mildly spiced | Juicy, lean | ~180 | Lower-calorie meals |
| Steak | Bold, grilled taste | Tender, hearty | ~150–160 | High protein, rich flavor |
| Barbacoa | Spicy, tangy | Shredded, tender | ~170 | Slow-cooked, deeper flavors |
| Carnitas | Savory, seasoned | Juicy, shredded | ~210 | Pork lovers, filling portions |
Healthy Options at Chipotle
Many people enjoy Chipotle not just for taste, but also for its flexibility in building balanced meals. If you’re aiming for lighter choices, these healthy options at Chipotle stand out:
- Salad Bowl: A base of fresh romaine topped with protein, beans, and salsa. Skip cheese and sour cream to reduce calories.
- Burrito Bowl: Choose brown rice, black beans, and grilled chicken for a high-protein yet lighter meal.
- Vegetarian Bowl: Filled with fajita veggies, salsa, and guacamole for healthy fats.
- Sofritas: Plant-based protein made from tofu, offering flavor and fewer calories than most meat options.
- Extras in moderation: Cheese, sour cream, and queso are calorie-dense, so add them sparingly.
Also read – What Are Some Of The Healthiest Options To Order At Chipotle Mexican Grill?
Vegetarian and Vegan Choices at Chipotle
Chipotle makes it easy for plant-based eaters to enjoy a full meal without missing out on flavor. The vegetarian options at Chipotle are some of the most flexible on the menu.
- Sofritas: Spicy, shredded tofu cooked with peppers and spices. A solid protein choice for vegans.
- Veggie Bowl: Packed with black beans, pinto beans, fajita veggies, and salsa. You can add guacamole for healthy fats.
- Salad Bowl without Meat: Fresh greens combined with beans, corn salsa, and extra veggies.
- Vegan-Friendly Tacos: Soft or crispy shells filled with beans, rice, veggies, and salsa.
Whether you’re vegetarian or vegan, Chipotle offers enough variety to build a meal that’s both satisfying and nutrient-rich.
Chipotle Secret Menu Favorites
Beyond the standard menu, Chipotle has a few hidden gems that regulars swear by. These Chipotle secret menu items aren’t always listed, but many locations will prepare them if you ask.
- Quesarito: A burrito wrapped in a melted cheese quesadilla instead of a plain tortilla. Heavy, but worth trying once.
- Nachos: A base of tortilla chips topped with your choice of protein, beans, cheese, salsa, and guacamole.
- Double-Wrapped Burrito: For those who want extra structure, two tortillas are used to hold everything together.
- Extra Toppings Combo: Some fans mix all three salsas with guacamole and queso for maximum flavor.
These options are more indulgent, but they highlight how flexible Chipotle can be. If you enjoy experimenting, the secret menu is worth exploring.
Also read – What Kind Of Rice Does Chipotle Use?
Customer Favorites and Reviews
Many loyal fans have clear favorites when it comes to Chipotle. Online reviews and food forums often highlight the same standout picks.
- Burrito Bowl: Regulars say it’s the most versatile item, letting them balance flavor and portion size.
- Chicken and Barbacoa: These proteins get the highest praise for taste and consistency.
- Guacamole with Chips: Often called the must-have side, even though it costs extra.
- Quesadilla: Loved for its crisp tortilla and cheesy filling, especially popular among younger customers.
- Tacos: Favored by people who want variety in one meal, since you can mix different proteins in a single order.
Social media trends also show strong love for combinations like the chicken bowl with guacamole, or the steak burrito with double rice. Reviews point to these as the must try dishes in Chipotle if you’re ordering for the first time.
Conclusion
Chipotle Mexican Grill offers a wide mix of meals that can fit nearly any taste or diet. From the hearty burrito to lighter bowls and fresh salads, the menu has something for everyone. If you’re visiting for the first time, the burrito bowl, tacos, guacamole, and quesadilla are often called the must try dishes in Chipotle. For those who want healthier or vegetarian picks, the chain provides flexible options without losing flavor. Whether you stick with classics or test out secret menu items, Chipotle makes it easy to enjoy a meal built just the way you like it.