The Discontinued Chicken Fajita Burrito: Calorie Clarity
For most customers in the United States, the Taco Bell chicken fajita burrito is a relic of the past, specifically a former item like the 'Fajita Grilled Stuft Burrito' from the mid-2000s. However, variations of this item exist internationally or in specific test markets. For instance, a Spicy Shredded Chicken Fajita Burrito available in other regions has been reported to contain 440 calories, while a Grilled Chicken version sits around 421 calories. The precise calorie count depends heavily on the specific ingredients, which may have varied over time and by location. Typically, these burritos included some combination of:
- Grilled or shredded chicken
- Seasoned fajita peppers and onions
- Mexican rice
- Cheddar or a three-cheese blend
- Sour cream or a zesty fajita sauce
- All wrapped in a flour tortilla
This combination of ingredients, including rice, cheese, and a creamy sauce, is what contributed to the moderate calorie count, placing it above some of the most basic menu items but below the heavier, more indulgent options.
Dissecting the Macros: A Nutritional Snapshot
Beyond just calories, the nutrient profile of the chicken fajita burrito provided a balance of macronutrients. Based on the 440-calorie Spicy Shredded Chicken version, the breakdown looked something like this:
- Fat: 17.3 grams (including 6 grams of saturated fat)
- Carbohydrates: 54.1 grams
- Protein: 16.6 grams
- Sodium: 2.2 grams (or 2,200mg, which is quite high)
It's worth noting that the high carbohydrate content comes primarily from the flour tortilla and Mexican rice, while the fat content is a combination of cheese, sour cream, and the cooking oils used for the ingredients. The protein, sourced from the chicken, makes it a more filling option than many vegetarian alternatives.
The Fate of the Fajita Burrito at Taco Bell
As mentioned, the chicken fajita burrito was part of a limited-time offering in the U.S. in the 1990s and 2000s. It failed to gain permanent menu status, likely due to a combination of factors, including customer preference for classic items and the operational complexity of preparing fajita vegetables. Periodically, Taco Bell may introduce similar fajita-inspired items for market testing or regional menus, as seen with some recent rolled quesadilla tests. However, the classic burrito variation remains off the standard U.S. menu for now.
Comparison: Fajita Burrito vs. Current Taco Bell Options
| Item | Estimated Calories | Primary Protein | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discontinued Fajita Burrito | ~420-440 | Chicken | Distinctive fajita peppers and onions |
| Chicken Power Menu Bowl | ~470 | Grilled Chicken | Higher protein and lower carbs, no tortilla |
| Chicken Burrito Supreme | ~420 | Chicken | Includes beans, red sauce, and lettuce; no fajita veggies |
| Beefy 5-Layer Burrito | ~500 | Seasoned Beef | Higher in calories and fat due to nacho cheese and beans |
| Fresco Style Chicken Soft Taco | ~160 | Chicken | Lower calories by replacing cheese/sauces with pico de gallo |
How to Build a Similar, Healthier Burrito at Taco Bell
If you miss the flavor of the old fajita burrito, you can try to recreate a healthier version using current menu ingredients. Here's how:
- Start with a base: Order a Chicken Power Menu Bowl or a Chicken Soft Taco. The Power Menu Bowl already has grilled chicken and rice, providing a good foundation.
- Add vegetables: Request extra onions and diced tomatoes. While not true fajita peppers, this adds a fresh vegetable element.
- Go "Fresco Style": Opt for the 'Fresco Style' option to replace cheese, creamy sauces, and sour cream with fresh pico de gallo. This significantly reduces calories and fat.
- Adjust portions: For a lower-calorie meal, consider ordering a Soft Taco Fresco Style instead of a full burrito. If you're building a bowl, you can customize ingredients and ask for light rice or no rice at all.
In conclusion, while the original Taco Bell chicken fajita burrito is no longer a permanent fixture on the menu, its calorie count was generally in the mid-range for a fast-food burrito. By understanding its nutritional profile and using some customization tricks, fans can still enjoy similar flavors while making more informed and often healthier choices. For the most up-to-date nutritional information, always consult the official Taco Bell website.
Conclusion
The Taco Bell chicken fajita burrito, a nostalgic menu item for many, typically contained around 420-440 calories, depending on the exact build. Its moderate calorie count was derived from a combination of chicken, rice, cheese, and fajita vegetables. However, since it is not a standard item on the modern U.S. menu, replicating its flavor involves customizing current offerings. By using options like the Chicken Power Menu Bowl and ordering 'Fresco Style,' it is possible to create a healthier, customized version that captures the essence of the classic fajita burrito without the full calorie load. For accurate and current data, Taco Bell's official nutrition information is the best source.
