How Long Does Evol Chicken Burrito Last?
Storage and Freshness Guide
Evol Chicken Burritos are a convenient and tasty option for those looking to enjoy a quick meal without compromising on flavor and quality. Stored properly in the refrigerator, these burritos can last for 3-5 days, while in the freezer, they can be safely consumed within 2-3 months. Proper storage and handling are key to maintaining the texture and taste of these frozen burritos.
Frozen burritos like Evol's Chicken Burrito are typically well-received for their balanced mix of chicken, rice, and pinto beans. The guajillo chile sauce adds a sweet and mildly spicy flavor that complements the overall content of the burrito. This careful crafting ensures that even after freezing, the quality remains high, making it a dependable option in one's meal planning.
Preparing an Evol Chicken Burrito is straightforward, with clear instructions recommending oven baking for an optimal experience. The ability to store them for an extended period enhances their appeal, providing flexibility for those with busy schedules who still care about the content and quality of their meals.
Evol Chicken Burrito Overview
Evol Chicken Burritos are known for their quality ingredients and appealing flavors. These burritos combine chicken, rice, beans, and other components to provide a satisfying meal option.
Product Description
Evol Chicken Burritos, such as the Cilantro Lime Chicken Burrito and Sriracha Chicken Big Burrito, are crafted with wholesome ingredients. These burritos typically include chicken raised without antibiotics, brown rice, pinto beans, cheddar cheese, and roasted corn. They are wrapped in hand-rolled tortillas and offer a balanced mix of flavors.
The Chicken, Bean & Rice Burrito features a sweet guajillo chile sauce, while other variations like the Teriyaki Chicken Burrito come with a unique pineapple sesame teriyaki sauce that includes red bell peppers, carrots, and edamame.
Brand History
Evol was founded to provide healthy, convenient frozen food options. Their focus on using natural ingredients and avoiding artificial additives has set them apart in the market.
Their products are inspected for wholesomeness by the USDA. Evol sources high-quality ingredients, ensuring their meals are both nutritious and enjoyable. With offerings like the Cilantro Lime Chicken Burrito and the Sriracha Chicken Big Burrito, Evol continues to expand their product line, maintaining a commitment to quality and flavor.
Nutritional Information
The nutritional content of Evol Chicken Burritos includes a variety of macronutrients essential for daily health, and they are free from antibiotics. The presence of common allergens should also be considered by those with sensitivities.
Macronutrients and Calories
Each Evol Chicken, Bean & Rice Burrito provides a substantial amount of various macronutrients. For instance, one rice-based burrito contains approximately 440 calories. The calorie breakdown includes 31% from fat, 50% from carbohydrates, and 18% from protein.
Macronutrients:
Calories: 440 kcal
Fat: Approximately 13 grams
Carbohydrates: 47 grams
Protein: 17 grams
Fiber: 4 grams
This balance reveals that the burrito offers a high-energy meal with significant proportions of protein and carbohydrates, supporting both muscle maintenance and energy levels.
Presence of Allergens
Evol Chicken Burritos contain several ingredients that may pose allergen risks. Key components like cheese and flour tortillas suggest potential allergens such as dairy and gluten, which could affect individuals with those specific sensitivities.
Possible Allergens:
Dairy: Cheddar cheese
Gluten: Flour tortilla
Moreover, the burritos highlight that the chicken used is raised without antibiotics, ensuring a more natural and safer dietary option for concerned consumers.
Consumers should verify ingredient lists and consult with healthcare providers if they have specific food allergies or dietary restrictions to ensure the burrito aligns with their nutritional needs and health goals.
Storage Guidelines
Properly storing an Evol Chicken Burrito ensures it remains fresh and safe to eat. Effective storage methods include refrigeration to maintain its quality.
Refrigeration
To keep an Evol Chicken Burrito fresh and safe, refrigeration is essential. Refrigerate it at or below 40°F (4°C) immediately after purchase or preparation.
Store the burrito in an airtight container or tightly wrap it in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. These methods help prevent exposure to air and contaminants, maintaining the burrito's quality.
A refrigerated Evol Chicken Burrito typically lasts 3-5 days. Always check the burrito for any signs of spoilage, such as off smells or discoloration, before consuming it.
Note: If the burrito is left out at room temperature for more than two hours, it should be discarded to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Shelf Life
When considering the shelf life of an Evol Chicken Burrito, factors such as whether the package is opened or unopened play a significant role. Proper storage conditions also affect the longevity of the product.
Unopened Package
An Evol Chicken Burrito in an unopened package can last for several months when stored in the freezer. According to storage guidelines, keeping the burrito at or below 0°F (-18°C) maintains its quality and safety for up to three months.
Regularly checking the package scan for expiry dates and any storage instructions provided by Evol guarantees optimal storage practices. Keep in mind that proper sealing prevents freezer burn, which can compromise taste and texture.
After Opening
Once the Evol Chicken Burrito package is opened, its shelf life decreases. If stored in the refrigerator, the burrito should be consumed within 3-5 days to ensure it remains safe and retains its quality. Refrigeration at or below 40°F (4°C) is crucial to maintaining freshness.
If only a portion of the burrito is consumed, tightly wrapping the remaining part in aluminum foil or a plastic wrap helps preserve its integrity. For longer storage, freezing the remaining portion can extend its life up to an additional 2-3 months.
Regularly scanning for signs of spoilage, such as any off odors or changes in texture, is essential to ensure the burrito remains safe to eat.
Preparation Methods
Proper preparation ensures the Evol Chicken Burrito is both safe to eat and delicious. Below are two primary methods: using a microwave and an oven.
Microwave Instructions
To prepare using a microwave, first remove the wrapper from the frozen burrito. Place it on a microwave-safe plate to avoid any potential hazards. Microwave on high for approximately 2 minutes and 45 seconds. To ensure even heating, flip the burrito halfway through the cooking time.
After microwaving, allow the burrito to cool down slightly before eating. This step is crucial as the interior can be very hot. Be cautious when handling the burrito directly out of the microwave, as it can cause burns.
Oven Instructions
For those preferring a more traditional method, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Remove the wrapper from the frozen burrito and wrap it in aluminum foil. Place the foil-wrapped burrito on a baking sheet to ensure even cooking.
Bake the burrito for around 32-35 minutes. This slower, more consistent heating method helps to retain the burrito’s moisture while achieving a slightly crispy texture. Handle the burrito carefully when removing it from the oven, as it will be extremely hot. Let it cool before serving.
Both methods ensure that the Evol Chicken Burrito is heated properly and ready to enjoy. Users can choose based on their time availability and texture preference.
Quality and Safety Considerations
Ensuring the quality and safety of an Evol Chicken Burrito involves focusing on ingredient standards and the integrity of the packaging to maintain freshness and prevent contamination.
Ingredient Quality
The quality of the ingredients in an Evol Chicken Burrito is crucial for both taste and safety. Evol is known for using high-quality, often organic ingredients that are free from artificial preservatives. This not only enhances flavor but also reduces the risk of chemical contaminants.
Freshness matters significantly. Ingredients like chicken, beans, and rice must be handled correctly from the source to production. The inclusion of organic vegetables also contributes to a safer, healthier product. However, even high-quality ingredients can deteriorate quickly if not stored correctly.
Packaging Integrity
Proper packaging plays a vital role in maintaining the burrito's quality. Evol burritos are usually vacuum-sealed to keep out air and moisture, which helps prevent spoilage. The packaging must be intact and free from damage to offer maximum protection.
Checking for any signs of damage, such as tears or punctures in the packaging, is essential. Compromised packaging can expose the burrito to harmful bacteria, leading to potential food safety issues. Always store Evol Chicken Burritos in the freezer to preserve their quality until ready to consume.
Culinary Uses
An Evol Chicken Burrito can be quite versatile in the kitchen, offering numerous ways to enhance or complement your meals. The following subtopics provide specific ideas and pairings for maximizing the meal's potential, focusing primarily on enhancing its primary ingredients like chicken, rice, beans, and cheddar cheese.
Creative Serving Suggestions
For a different take, the chicken burrito can be unwrapped and used as a filling for soft taco shells, garnished with fresh cilantro and a splash of lime juice. This method not only changes the texture but also adds a refreshing kick.
The burrito can be sliced into smaller pieces and served as an appetizer with homemade guacamole or salsa. This approach works especially well for parties, where finger foods are a hit.
For breakfast, the burrito can be cut in half and combined with scrambled eggs for a hearty burrito bowl. Adding diced avocados and a sprinkle of cheddar cheese can elevate the dish even further.
Complementary Foods
To balance the flavors, consider serving the burrito with a side of seasoned black beans and Mexican rice. The beans and rice can be cooked with cumin and chili powder to enhance their flavor profiles.
Fresh garden salads dressed with lime vinaigrette pair well with these burritos, providing a contrast in texture and temperature.
Beverage pairings such as a cold beer or light lemonade can also complement the savory and slightly spicy elements of the burrito. The acidity of lemonade can help cut through the richness of the filling, making for a balanced meal.
Lastly, serving the burrito alongside warm tortilla chips and melted cheddar cheese dip can create a delightful, communal dining experience.
Consumer Feedback
Consumers of the Evol Chicken Burrito have shared a range of opinions, highlighting both the strengths and areas for improvement of this popular frozen meal.
Customer Reviews
The Evol Chicken Burrito generally receives favorable reviews. Many customers appreciate the flavorful combination of cilantro lime chicken, black beans, and roasted corn. These ingredients, combined with the authentic tomato salsa, create a satisfying meal.
Several reviewers also praise the 70% organic content and the quality of the chicken, which is raised without antibiotics. Moreover, the 14 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber per serving are often mentioned as positive nutritional aspects.
A recurring theme in positive reviews is the convenience of the burrito, especially for quick meals. The consistent taste and texture across different batches also receive favorable mentions.
Critiques and Recommendations
Despite many positive reviews, some critiques focus on packaging and preparation. A notable issue raised is the tendency of the burrito wrapper to split open during shipping or storage. This issue can affect the burrito's texture and ease of preparation.
Another common critique is related to the cooking process. Some customers find that microwaving the burrito can lead to uneven heating, resulting in localized hot spots. For better results, a suggestion is to use a conventional oven where possible, following the recommended baking instructions carefully.
Recommendations from consumers include improving the packaging to prevent splits and considering microwave-safe methods that ensure even heating. Some customers also express a desire for more organic ingredients and variations in flavor options.
