Chipotle Hacks: How to Build a 60g Protein Bowl
- David Cozzens
- Oct 6
- 8 min read
Updated: Oct 15
If you're aiming to hit 60g of protein in one meal, Chipotle makes it simple with its customizable bowls. Here's the quick formula:
Double Protein: Opt for double servings of grilled chicken (32g per serving) or mix proteins like chicken and barbacoa.
Add Beans: Black or pinto beans add 8g of protein per serving.
Include Toppings: Cheese, sour cream, and guacamole add flavor and small protein boosts.
Skip Rice if Needed: For lower carbs, focus on proteins and veggies instead.
This approach ensures you're getting a high-protein, nutrient-packed meal that supports muscle repair and recovery without sacrificing taste.
The best low calorie, high protein order from Chipotle
Step 1: Pick High-Protein Ingredients at Chipotle
Hitting 60g of protein at Chipotle starts with knowing the protein content of their menu options. With a little planning, you can easily build a protein-packed meal.
Protein Options and Nutrition Facts
Chipotle offers a variety of protein choices, each with its own flavor and nutritional profile. Here's a quick breakdown:
Grilled Chicken: The highest protein option, delivering a hefty 32g of protein per serving [1]. Perfect for those aiming to maximize protein intake.
Barbacoa: A flavorful alternative with 24g of protein per serving. Great if you're looking for variety without straying far from your protein goals [1].
Carnitas: Another tasty meat option, providing 23g of protein per serving [1].
Sofritas: Made from organic soy protein, this plant-based option offers 8g of protein per serving [1][2].
Black or Pinto Beans: A versatile addition, each serving contributes 8g of protein [1].
Protein Option | Protein Content (per serving) |
Grilled Chicken | 32g |
Barbacoa | 24g |
Carnitas | 23g |
Sofritas | 8g |
Black/Pinto Beans | 8g |
How to Double Your Protein Portions
Doubling your protein portion is a simple way to hit your target. For example, ordering double chicken boosts your meal to 64g of protein - well above the 60g goal. This not only helps you stay on track but also makes your meal more satisfying, keeping hunger at bay longer [1].
For plant-based eaters, doubling sofritas brings the total to 16g of protein, and adding beans raises it to 24g. While this still falls short of 60g, combining multiple sources can help bridge the gap. Pre-designed options like the Plant Powered Bowl (with sofritas) or the Veggie Full Bowl (with black beans) each provide about 18g of protein [2]. To meet higher protein goals, mix and match ingredients like beans, sofritas, and other toppings.
Chipotle’s customizable menu makes it easy to combine proteins. Pair meats together or mix meat with plant-based options to create a meal tailored to your needs. By being specific with your order, you can lay the groundwork for a high-protein bowl that supports your fitness goals. The next step will show you how to build on this foundation.
Step 2: Build Your 60g Protein Bowl
Now that you've chosen your ingredients, it’s time to assemble a bowl that aligns with your fitness goals. The goal? Hit 60g of protein with smart, strategic choices.
Bowl Building Instructions
Start with a base of brown or white rice, and double up on your protein portions. If you're combining proteins - like chicken and barbacoa - pair them with black beans to help you reach your protein target.
Next, load up on fajita veggies. Grilled peppers and onions not only add flavor and texture but also pack in vitamins like A and E, making your bowl more filling without piling on calories.
"The fiber from black beans supports gut health and helps keep you full, while the fajita veggies add volume, flavor, and nutrients like vitamin A and E. The chicken adds lean protein, and the salsa brings everything together without tacking on many extra calories."Jacob Zemer
Once you've got your base and proteins set, it’s time to layer in flavor and nutrition. Choose your salsas carefully - fresh tomato salsa, corn salsa, or pico de gallo are excellent options. They bring a burst of flavor without overshadowing the protein, which should remain the star of your bowl.
Looking to cut carbs? Reduce or skip the rice entirely. This makes room for more nutrient-dense, protein-rich ingredients while keeping your calorie count in check.
Finish your bowl with thoughtful add-ons that boost both protein and taste.
Extra Add-Ons for More Protein and Taste
Add-ons like cheese, black beans, sour cream, and guacamole can take your bowl to the next level. Cheese contributes protein and creaminess, while black beans add both protein and fiber. Sour cream, used sparingly, brings creaminess and an extra protein boost.
Guacamole rounds things out with healthy fats - like monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats - and extra fiber to keep you feeling full longer.
"Even though this bowl doesn't pass The Protein Test, it's got monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats from the guac and more fiber than the other options combined. Great if you need more staying power throughout your day."Jacob Zemer
The trick is finding the right balance. Prioritize protein-rich add-ons first, then use flavorful extras like salsas and veggies to create a satisfying, nutrient-packed bowl that supports your goals.
Cost and Nutrition Breakdown
A high-protein Chipotle bowl is an affordable way to fuel your fitness goals, offering a balance of nutrition and value. Let’s break down the costs and explore smart ways to pack in the protein without breaking the bank.
High-Protein Option Costs
Chipotle’s pricing varies based on your choice of protein and add-ons. For instance, opting for double chicken is a budget-friendly way to increase protein intake. On the other hand, premium proteins or extras like guacamole, cheese, or sour cream can drive up the total cost. Pairing a solid protein choice with black beans is a smart move - it adds extra protein while keeping calories in check.
If you’re looking to stretch your dollar, there are simple adjustments you can make to get the most protein for your money.
Getting More Protein for Your Money
To maximize your bowl’s protein content without overspending, focus on proteins that offer the best nutritional value for their price. Black beans are a great addition - they’re not only protein-packed but also a good source of fiber and carbs, which help sustain energy for workouts. Adjusting your base ingredients, like skipping less nutrient-dense add-ons, can free up room (and budget) for more protein-rich toppings while keeping costs manageable.
Tips from Train with Dave Experts
Give your Chipotle bowl a boost with smart ingredient choices. The certified exercise physiologists at Train with Dave highlight how customizing your meals can align with your fitness goals. Here’s how you can make your Chipotle order work harder for you.
How to Customize Meals and Control Portions
Portion control is a game-changer when it comes to tailoring your fast-casual meals. The experts recommend focusing on lean proteins when building your Chipotle bowl. For example, if your target is 60g of protein, plan your order to include extra servings of chicken, steak, or other lean options. Don’t hesitate to ask for double protein or adjust your sides to hit your goals.
Looking to cut back on calories? Swap out calorie-heavy toppings like cheese or sour cream for nutrient-packed options like salsa or fajita vegetables. These swaps add flavor and nutrients without adding unnecessary calories.
Why Consistent Nutrition Drives Fitness Results
Portion control is just one part of the equation - consistency in nutrition is what truly drives long-term fitness success. Regular protein intake is essential for muscle repair and recovery. High-protein meals, like a well-planned Chipotle bowl, provide your body with the amino acids it needs to rebuild after workouts. Pairing your meals with your workout schedule can further enhance recovery and performance.
How to Build Your High-Protein Chipotle Bowl
To craft a high-protein Chipotle bowl, start with a base like cilantro-lime rice or a bed of lettuce. From there, stack on double portions of lean proteins - chicken and steak are excellent choices - to hit around 60g of protein. This sets the stage for a meal that fuels your body effectively.
Next, add beans to boost your protein intake even further while also supplying fiber and complex carbs for steady energy. For flavor, sprinkle on some cheese or a dollop of light sour cream. Then, load up on fajita veggies, salsa, and guacamole to round out the meal with extra nutrients and healthy fats.
This bowl is not just about taste; it works hand-in-hand with your fitness routine. Eating enough protein after a workout plays a key role in muscle repair and growth. By tailoring your bowl to your needs, you’re not just eating - you’re actively supporting your strength and recovery goals, one bite at a time.
FAQs
How can I create a high-protein Chipotle bowl that's both delicious and balanced?
If you're aiming to create a high-protein Chipotle bowl, start by doubling up on chicken, steak, or barbacoa - these options pack a punch with about 50–60 grams of protein. Add a serving of black beans or pinto beans to boost both protein and fiber, and toss in some fajita veggies for extra nutrients and a burst of flavor. For a more balanced bowl, choose brown rice over white rice to up your fiber intake.
To make your bowl even tastier while keeping protein levels high, consider adding cheese or guacamole. Just be mindful of portion sizes to avoid overloading on calories. If you're looking to keep things lean, skip or go easy on sour cream and other higher-fat toppings. With these thoughtful choices, you can craft a delicious, protein-packed bowl that aligns with your fitness goals.
How can I increase the protein in my Chipotle bowl without spending too much?
If you're looking to boost the protein content of your Chipotle bowl without spending a fortune, there are a few simple tricks to keep in mind. Start by asking for extra beans - whether black or pinto - as they’re packed with protein and usually come at no additional cost. You can also double up on chicken or barbacoa, which offer excellent protein for their price, making them a budget-friendly way to meet your nutritional goals.
Want to stretch your meal further? Add fajita veggies. They not only increase the volume of your bowl but also add nutrients, all without raising the price. To keep costs in check, consider skipping pricier extras like guacamole or queso and focus on protein-heavy toppings instead. With these tweaks, you can create a bowl that’s both protein-packed and budget-friendly, perfect for staying on track with your fitness goals.
How can I customize my Chipotle order for a plant-based, high-protein meal?
If you're looking to craft a high-protein, plant-based bowl at Chipotle, start with Sofritas - a tasty option made from organic soy protein. Then, layer on black beans or pinto beans to pack in even more protein. To balance things out, add guacamole for healthy fats, fajita veggies for a nutrient boost, and brown rice for fiber and carbs.
Want to up the protein even further? Go ahead and double up on Sofritas or beans. This simple tweak lets you enjoy a satisfying, plant-based meal that aligns with your fitness goals and dietary preferences.
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