Chicken Burrito With Rice And Beans Calories
Chicken burrito with rice and beans is a popular Mexican dish that is loved by many people. Its delicious taste and filling nature make it a perfect meal, especially for those who are always on the go. However, if you are watching your calorie intake or trying to lose weight, you might be wondering if a chicken burrito with rice and beans is a healthy option. In this article, we will take a closer look at the calories in this meal and explore how you can make it more nutritious.
What is a Chicken Burrito with Rice and Beans?
Before we delve into the calorie content of a chicken burrito with rice and beans, let's take a brief look at what this meal consists of. A typical chicken burrito with rice and beans is made with a flour tortilla, chicken breast, rice, black or pinto beans, cheese, and vegetables such as lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Some people also add sour cream, guacamole, or salsa to their burrito for extra flavor.
Now that we know what's in a chicken burrito with rice and beans, let's move on to the calorie content of this meal.
Calories in a Chicken Burrito with Rice and Beans
The number of calories in a chicken burrito with rice and beans can vary depending on the portion size and the ingredients used. However, on average, a chicken burrito with rice and beans contains around 700-800 calories.
While this might seem like a lot of calories for one meal, it's important to keep in mind that a chicken burrito with rice and beans is also a good source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients. Protein is important for building and repairing muscle tissue, while fiber can help keep you feeling full and satisfied for longer.
Making a Chicken Burrito with Rice and Beans More Nutritious
If you're concerned about the calorie content of a chicken burrito with rice and beans, there are several ways to make this meal more nutritious without sacrificing flavor. Here are a few tips:
- Choose whole-grain tortillas instead of flour tortillas. Whole-grain tortillas are a good source of fiber and other nutrients, and they have fewer calories than flour tortillas.
- Use brown rice instead of white rice. Brown rice is higher in fiber and protein than white rice, and it also has a lower glycemic index, which means it won't cause your blood sugar levels to spike as quickly.
- Use black beans instead of pinto beans. Black beans are a good source of fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients, and they also have fewer calories than pinto beans.
- Load up on vegetables. Vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, onions, and peppers are low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Adding more vegetables to your chicken burrito with rice and beans can make it more filling and nutritious.
- Choose low-fat cheese or skip it altogether. Cheese can add a lot of calories and saturated fat to your chicken burrito with rice and beans. If you can't imagine a burrito without cheese, opt for a low-fat variety, or use a small amount of cheese as a garnish.
- Avoid adding sour cream, guacamole, or salsa. While these condiments can add flavor to your chicken burrito with rice and beans, they can also add a lot of calories and sodium. If you must have these condiments, use them sparingly.
The Bottom Line
A chicken burrito with rice and beans can be a healthy and nutritious meal if you choose your ingredients carefully and watch your portion sizes. By making simple swaps like using whole-grain tortillas and brown rice, adding more vegetables, and avoiding high-calorie condiments, you can enjoy a delicious chicken burrito with rice and beans without derailing your healthy eating goals.
Remember, it's not just about the calories in your food, but also about the nutrients it provides. A chicken burrito with rice and beans is a good source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients that your body needs to function properly. So, go ahead and indulge in this tasty Mexican dish, but do it in a way that supports your health and wellness goals!