The best way to reheat a Chipotle bowl is to take out the cold toppings first (lettuce, sour cream, guac, cheese, and salsa), move the rest to a microwave-safe plate, and heat it until it is steaming hot all the way through. For a burrito, an oven or air fryer keeps the tortilla from getting soggy.
This guide covers the microwave, oven, and air fryer, how long leftovers last, and food safety basics.
Can You Microwave a Chipotle Bowl?
Yes, but not in the original packaging. Remove the foil-lined lid, since metal should never go in a microwave. For the bowl itself, the safest choice is to move your food to a microwave-safe plate or glass container.
How to Reheat a Chipotle Bowl in the Microwave
- Take out cold toppings: lettuce, sour cream, guac, cheese, and fresh salsa. Set them aside.
- Move the rice, beans, meat, and fajita veggies to a microwave-safe plate. Spread them out.
- Add a splash of water over the rice and cover loosely with a damp paper towel.
- Heat for 1 minute, stir, then heat in 30-second steps until it is steaming hot throughout.
- Add the cold toppings back and eat.
How to Reheat a Chipotle Burrito
| Method | Steps | Time | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| Oven | Keep it wrapped in foil, heat at 350°F | About 20 to 25 minutes | Even heat, soft tortilla |
| Air fryer | Remove foil, heat at 350°F, flip halfway | About 8 to 12 minutes | Crispy outside |
| Microwave | Remove foil, wrap in a damp paper towel, heat in 1-minute steps | About 2 to 3 minutes | Fast, softer tortilla |
| Skillet | Warm in microwave first, then crisp on each side in a pan | About 5 minutes | Crispy and hot |
Times depend on your appliance and how cold the burrito is. Cut it in half to check that the center is hot.
Can You Put a Chipotle Bowl in the Oven or Air Fryer?
Do not put the paper bowl or foil lid in an air fryer, and do not put the paper bowl in an oven. Move the food to an oven-safe dish. In the oven, cover the dish with foil and heat at 350°F for about 15 to 20 minutes. An air fryer works better for burritos and tacos than for loose rice.
Can You Eat a Chipotle Bowl Cold?
Yes, if it was put in the fridge quickly and eaten within a few days. Many people like leftover bowls cold, almost like a salad. Just follow the storage rules below.
How Long Is a Chipotle Bowl Good For?
Food safety guidance from the USDA says:
- Refrigerate leftovers within 2 hours (within 1 hour if it is over 90°F outside).
- Eat them within 3 to 4 days.
- Reheat to 165°F all the way through.
Chipotle Bowl Left Out Overnight
Throw it away. Rice, meat, beans, and dairy left at room temperature for more than 2 hours can grow bacteria that reheating may not destroy. It is not worth the risk.
Tips for Better Leftovers
- Ask for toppings on the side if you plan to save half.
- Split it right away and refrigerate the second half before you start eating.
- Add fresh lettuce and salsa when you reheat to make it taste new.
Calories in Half a Bowl
Saving half is an easy way to cut calories. A 660-calorie chicken bowl becomes two 330-calorie meals. Plan your split with the Chipotle bowl calorie calculator, or see the best order for the most food.
FAQ
Is the Chipotle bowl microwave safe?
Remove the foil lid. To be safe, move the food to a microwave-safe plate instead of heating the paper bowl.
Can you reheat Chipotle guacamole?
No. Eat guac cold. Scrape it off before reheating and add it back after.
How long do you microwave a Chipotle burrito?
About 2 to 3 minutes total, in 1-minute steps, wrapped in a damp paper towel with the foil removed.
Want meals planned around your macros? Get the Chipotle Macro Planner.
Nutrition numbers are estimates for one standard serving, based on publicly posted nutrition information. Portions in the restaurant vary and menus change, so check Chipotle’s official nutrition information for the latest numbers. This site is not affiliated with Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.