A Qdoba chicken burrito can range from around 600 to over 1,000 calories, depending on the size and fillings. The nutrition information provided on Qdoba’s website shows calorie counts for burritos, bowls, tacos, quesadillas, and other menu items to help customers make informed choices.
Quick Answer
On average, a Qdoba chicken burrito contains around 800 calories. However, the number of calories can vary greatly based on factors like:
- Burrito size – Regular vs. large/grande
- Tortilla type – Flour, spinach, wheat, etc.
- Fillings – Types of chicken, rice, beans, salsa, cheese, etc.
- Cooking method – Grilled vs. crispy chicken
- Extra toppings – Guacamole, sour cream, etc.
The most caloric options, like a large burrito with crispy chicken, brown rice, black beans, cheese, guacamole, and sour cream, can exceed 1,000 calories. Lighter choices, like a regular burrito with grilled chicken, tomatoes, onions, lettuce, and salsa, may have only 600-700 calories.
Nutrition Information on Qdoba’s Website
Qdoba provides nutrition calculators on their website so customers can see the calorie count and other nutrient information for customized burrito orders. This allows people to make informed choices when ordering.
Some examples of Qdoba chicken burrito calorie counts include:
- Regular chicken burrito with flour tortilla, chicken, rice, salsa, cheese: 800 calories
- Regular chicken burrito with spinach tortilla, chicken, fajita veggies, black beans, pico: 680 calories
- Grande chicken burrito with flour tortilla, crispy chicken, brown rice, corn salsa, sour cream: 1050 calories
The online nutrition calculator accounts for burrito size, tortilla type, chicken style, rice/beans, salsas, and any extras like guacamole or sour cream. This allows people to customize their order and see the nutrition info.
Factors Affecting Calorie Count
As seen on the Qdoba nutrition calculator, there are several factors that determine the calorie content in a chicken burrito, including:
Burrito Size
Qdoba serves regular and large/grande burritos. Grande burritos have about 1.5 times the calories as regular ones when made with the same fillings.
Tortilla Type
Flour tortillas have around 140 calories each at Qdoba. Wheat and spinach tortillas have 100 calories. Other lower calorie options like lettuce wraps are available.
Fillings
Ingredients like rice, beans, salsas, cheese, sour cream, and extras like guacamole or queso add more calories. Healthier fillings like pico de gallo, lettuce, grilled veggies have minimal calories.
Chicken Style
Grilled chicken has around 45 calories per ounce. Crispy chicken has approximately 80 calories per ounce. Make your burrito with grilled chicken to reduce calories.
Cooking Method
The cooking method impacts calorie content. Grilled chicken has fewer calories than crispy chicken. Qdoba also offers tender sous vide chicken with around 50 calories per ounce. Choose grilled or sous vide chicken styles to cut calories.
Extra Toppings
Ingredients like guacamole, queso, sour cream and cheese add 150 calories or more per serving. Skip extras or use sparing amounts to keep calories down.
Lower Calorie Burrito Options
Here are some tips for ordering lower calorie Qdoba burritos under 600 calories:
- Choose a regular sized burrito
- Opt for a spinach or wheat tortilla
- Fill with grilled chicken, sautéed veggies
- Use tomatoes, onions, lettuce, salsa
- Avoid rice, beans, cheese, sour cream, guacamole
- Flavor with salsa, pico de gallo, spices
- Have on the side: salsa, hot sauce, lime
Being mindful of portions and ingredients is key. Customize your burrito using the nutrition calculator to reach your calorie goal.
Highest Calorie Burrito Options
Here are some ways to build a higher calorie Qdoba burrito with over 1,000 calories:
- Order a large/grande sized tortilla
- Choose a flour tortilla
- Fill with crispy chicken, brown rice, black beans
- Add cheese, sour cream, guacamole
- Drizzle on creamy queso sauce
- Extra chips and drinks on the side
Large portions, crispy chicken, cheese, rice, beans and rich sauces quickly increase the calorie count. Be mindful of portions of higher calorie ingredients.
Nutritional Benefits of Qdoba Burritos
Despite the calorie count, Qdoba burritos can provide nutritional benefits when made with wholesome ingredients like:
Lean Protein
Chicken and steak offer satiating protein to help you feel full. Beans also provide fiber and plant-based protein.
Whole Grains
Flour tortillas and rice contain beneficial whole grains. Look for 100% whole wheat tortillas and brown rice.
Healthy Fats
Small amounts of cheese, guacamole and sour cream provide healthy fats. But be mindful of portions.
Veggies
Onions, tomatoes, lettuce, roasted veggies contain vitamins, minerals and fiber without many calories.
Spices
Salsa, pico de gallo and hot sauce give flavor without calories, salt or fat.
Overall, Qdoba burritos can be a nutritious meal when customized with healthy ingredients and sensible portions. Use the nutrition calculator to build a burrito that fits your diet.
Comparing Burrito Calories at Other Restaurants
Burrito calorie content can vary greatly depending on restaurant, size and fillings. Here’s how Qdoba burrito calories compare to other places:
| Restaurant | Burrito (calories) |
|---|---|
| Qdoba chicken burrito | 600 – 1000+ |
| Chipotle chicken burrito | 700 – 1200+ |
| Moe’s chicken burrito | 700 – 1100+ |
| Taco Bell bean burrito | 350 |
| Baja Fresh chicken burrito | 950 |
As shown, burritos can vary greatly in calories based on restaurant, size, ingredients, etc. Qdoba tends to be on par with places like Chipotle and Moe’s Southwest Grill for burrito nutrition profiles.
Tips for Dining Out and Making Healthy Choices
Here are some tips to help enjoy Qdoba or Mexican food more healthfully:
- Check out nutrition info online before ordering
- Customize your meal – skip extras, choose veggies, grilled options
- Ask for modifications – extra salsa instead of sour cream
- Share or split a large entree with a friend
- Order a bowl instead of heavy tortillas and chips
- Get small street tacos instead of huge burritos
- Savor your food and eat slowly
- Take leftovers home for another meal
With some simple modifications and mindful choices, you can enjoy Qdoba burritos and Mexican cuisine as part of a healthy lifestyle.
Conclusion
Qdoba chicken burritos can range from 600 to over 1,000 calories depending on size and ingredients. Use Qdoba’s nutrition calculator to customize your burrito and see the calorie count. Opt for regular sized burritos, healthier tortillas, grilled chicken, extra veggies, and salsa instead of heavy extras to keep calories in check. While burritos are higher in calories, they can provide nutrition benefits from ingredients like lean protein, whole grains, healthy fats and veggies. With mindful ordering and portion control, Qdoba burritos can be part of a balanced diet.
