Chipotle Mexican Grill is one of the most popular fast-casual restaurant chains in the United States. Known for their burritos, bowls, tacos, and salads, Chipotle offers delicious Mexican fare made with fresh, high-quality ingredients. With so many flavorful options to choose from, what drinks, sides, and desserts pair best with your Chipotle order?
What to drink with Chipotle
When eating spicy, flavorsome foods like those at Chipotle, it’s important to have a cooling, thirst-quenching beverage to balance out the heat. Here are some of the best drink options to pair with your Chipotle meal:
| Beverage | Why it’s a good pair |
|---|---|
| Lemonade | The tart, sweet lemonade helps cut through the richness of Chipotle’s food. The citrus flavor cleanses your palate. |
| Iced tea | Like lemonade, iced tea provides tart flavor to balance the spice and richness. Unsweetened tea avoids adding more sweetness. |
| Mexican Coke | The crisp, sweet taste of Mexican Coca-Cola made with real cane sugar complements the Tex-Mex flavors. |
| Horchata | Sweet creamy rice milk drink horchata cools your mouth from spicy salsas and hot meats. |
| Agua Fresca | Refreshing agua fresca comes in flavors like strawberry, lime, and mango to cut the heat. |
Iced tea, lemonade, horchata, and agua fresca are excellent options for washing down mouthfuls of spicy carnitas, barbacoa, or hot salsa from Chipotle. The sweet, tart, and creamy flavors balance and soothe your palate. A Mexican Coke offers the perfect touch of carbonation and sweetness. For an adult beverage, try a Mexican beer like Modelo, Corona, Pacifico, or Dos Equis.
What sides go well with Chipotle?
In addition to entrees and drinks, sides are important for rounding out your Chipotle meal. Here are some of the best side options to enjoy with your food:
| Side | Why it’s a good pair |
|---|---|
| Chips and salsa | This classic combo adds crunch and fresh tomato flavor to balance heavy dishes. |
| Guacamole | Creamy, cool avocado dip offers a fresh contrast to rich meats and cheeses. |
| Pico de gallo | The fresh onion, tomato, cilantro brightens up burritos, bowls, and tacos. |
| Queso | Smooth, creamy cheese dip complements salty, spicy fillings. |
| Rice | Fluffy seasoned rice soaks up sauce and adds mild flavor. |
| Beans | Hearty beans provide protein, fiber, and texture. |
Crunchy tortilla chips and creamy guacamole make an ideal light snack before your meal. For a heartier option, rice and beans give you an extra boost of fiber, protein, and carbs. Spicy salsas and cooling pico de gallo balance the richness of dishes like burritos. Don’t forget a side of queso for dipping any leftovers!
What desserts pair well with Chipotle?
After finishing a spicy, savory Chipotle meal, a sweet treat really hits the spot. Here are some delicious desserts that complement the flavors of Chipotle:
| Dessert | Why it’s a good pair |
|---|---|
| Churros | The classic fried dough coated in cinnamon sugar provides a sweet counterpoint. |
| Sopapillas | Fried dough is dipped in honey for a sweet and tender dessert. |
| Flan | Rich, creamy custard is the perfect way to end a Mexican feast. |
| Tres Leches Cake | Moist cake soaked in three milks is not too heavy after a big meal. |
| Mexican Hot Chocolate | Warm, spiced chocolate drink complements spices like chipotle peppers. |
Tangy citrus and creamy custards are refreshing finishes after intense Mexican flavors. Churros, sopapillas, and tres leches cake satisfy your sweet tooth without overdoing it. Flan’s rich egg custard provides a decadent but light closure to a Chipotle meal. Top off your experience with a cup of Mexican hot chocolate warmly spiced with cinnamon.
Full Meal Combinations
Now that we’ve covered individual items that pair well with Chipotle, let’s look at some complete meal combinations that balance flavors and textures:
Lighter Lunch Combo
– Chicken salad bowl with pico de gallo, lettuce, cheese, and guacamole
– Side of chips and salsa
– Mexican Coke
The fresh vegetables and guacamole lighten up the chicken bowl while the salsa and Coke round it out.
Hearty Dinner Combo
– Steak burrito with rice, beans, salsa, and cheese
– Side of chips and queso
– Horchata
This combination provides a filling, flavorful meal with the queso and horchata to balance the big burrito.
Vegetarian Combo
– Sofritas (tofu) tacos on soft corn tortillas with lettuce, cheese, and guacamole
– Side of rice and pinto beans
– Iced hibiscus tea
The rice, beans, and guacamole ensure vegetarian tacos are nutritious and delicious while the cool hibiscus tea cuts the richness.
Kid-Friendly Combo
– Chicken or steak quesadilla with cheese
– Side of chips and mild tomato salsa
– Apple juice or chocolate milk
Quesadillas, chips, and salsa appeal to kids’ tastes while juices or chocolate milk are healthier than soda.
Tips for Enjoying Your Meal
Here are some final tips for making the most of your Chipotle meal:
– Customize your order! Don’t be afraid to ask for items not on the menu like a quesadilla.
– Try new salsa and topping combinations to experience new flavors.
– Mix up your protein choices like chicken, steak, carnitas, barbacoa, and Sofritas.
– Pair your food with a drink combo that balances the tastes and textures.
– Add sides like chips, salsa, rice, beans, and guacamole for a satisfying, hearty meal.
– Finish with a sweet treat like churros or Mexican hot chocolate.
– For takeout, ask for extra sides in separate containers to control portions.
– Reheat burritos and bowls later – just add a splash of water to refresh.
Conclusion
Chipotle offers so many flavorful options that pair well together and with refreshing drinks and sweet treats. Match the intensity of your bowl or burrito with the proper complements. Sides provide texture and flavor contrast. And don’t forget a delicious Mexican-inspired dessert and beverage to complete your meal! With the right combinations, your Chipotle meal can be healthy, filling and mouthwateringly delicious.