Written by CalorieData Nutrition TeamReviewed by a Registered DietitianLast Updated: March 2026

Quinoa vs Chipotle Burrito Bowl: Nutrition Comparison

Which is healthier? Compare calories, protein, carbs, and more

Complete side-by-side nutrition comparison per 100g serving | Updated 2026

Which is Healthier?

Quinoa is generally healthier

Quinoa comes out ahead in this comparison, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. It has fewer calories (120 vs 170), less sugar (1.6g vs 1.8g), less sodium (7mg vs 380mg)making it the better choice for most health goals.

Quick Summary

Fewer Calories

Quinoa

120 kcal

More Protein

Chipotle Burrito Bowl

11g

More Fiber

Chipotle Burrito Bowl

3.2g

Less Sugar

Quinoa

1.6g

Visual Comparison

Caloriesper 100g
Quinoa
120
Chipotle Burrito Bowl
170
Proteinper 100g
Quinoa
4.4g
Chipotle Burrito Bowl
11g
Carbohydratesper 100g
Quinoa
21g
Chipotle Burrito Bowl
17g
Fatper 100g
Quinoa
1.9g
Chipotle Burrito Bowl
6.8g

Side-by-Side Nutrition Table

NutrientQuinoaChipotle Burrito BowlDifference
Calories120kcal170kcal-50.0kcal
Protein4.4g11g-6.6g
Carbohydrates21g17g+4.0g
Fat1.9g6.8g-4.9g
Fiber2.8g3.2g-0.4g
Sugar1.6g1.8g-0.2g
Sodium7mg380mg-373.0mg

Serving Size Comparison

All values above are per 100g. Here's how they compare in common serving sizes:

Quinoa

Per 100g:120 calories
Per cup (150g):180 calories
Per serving (85g):102 calories

Chipotle Burrito Bowl

Per 100g:170 calories
Per cup (150g):255 calories
Per serving (85g):145 calories

Diet Compatibility

Quinoa

VeganVegetarianLow-Sodium

Chipotle Burrito Bowl

No specific diet tags

When to Choose Quinoa

  • Lower in calories (120 vs 170)
  • Less sugar (1.6g vs 1.8g)
  • Lower sodium (7mg vs 380mg)

Common Uses

Side dishesBreakfastMeal baseEnergy food
View full Quinoa nutrition →

When to Choose Chipotle Burrito Bowl

  • Higher in protein (11g vs 4.4g)
  • More fiber (3.2g vs 2.8g)
  • Lower in carbs (17g vs 21g)

Common Uses

Quick mealsDining outSocial eatingConvenience
View full Chipotle Burrito Bowl nutrition →

Quinoa vs Chipotle Burrito Bowl: Nutritional Analysis

Chipotle Burrito Bowl is more calorie-dense at 170 calories per 100g compared to 120 for Quinoa, a difference of 50 calories. On the protein front, Chipotle Burrito Bowl delivers more with 11g per 100g versus 4.4g, which matters for muscle maintenance, satiety, and overall metabolic health. These differences become meaningful when you consider how each food fits into your daily dietary pattern rather than looking at any single nutrient in isolation.

Macronutrient Breakdown

The macronutrient profiles of Quinoa and Chipotle Burrito Bowl tell different nutritional stories. Quinoa provides 21g of carbohydrates, 1.9g of fat, and 2.8g of fiber per 100g, while Chipotle Burrito Bowl contains 17g carbs, 6.8g fat, and 3.2g fiber. The higher fiber content in Chipotle Burrito Bowl supports digestive health, helps regulate blood sugar after meals, and contributes to longer-lasting satiety. Sugar content also differs: Quinoa contains 1.6g while Chipotle Burrito Bowl has 1.8g per 100g. Lower sugar options are generally preferable for blood sugar management and dental health.

Key Takeaways

  • For weight management: Quinoa is the lower-calorie choice at 120 cal/100g, making it more suitable for calorie-controlled diets.
  • For muscle building: Chipotle Burrito Bowl provides more protein (11g/100g), supporting muscle repair and growth.
  • For sustained energy: Chipotle Burrito Bowl offers more fiber (3.2g/100g), which slows digestion and provides steadier energy release.
  • Overall: Neither food is universally "better" than the other. The right choice depends on your specific nutritional goals, meal context, and dietary preferences. Both can play a role in a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which has more calories, Quinoa or Chipotle Burrito Bowl?

Chipotle Burrito Bowl has more calories with 170 kcal per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 120 kcal. That's a difference of 50 calories per 100g serving.

Is Quinoa healthier than Chipotle Burrito Bowl?

Based on our nutritional analysis, Quinoa is generally the healthier choice, winning in 3 out of 5 key nutritional categories. Quinoa has 120 calories, 4.4g protein, and 2.8g fiber per 100g. However, the best choice depends on your specific dietary goals.

What is the protein difference between Quinoa and Chipotle Burrito Bowl?

Chipotle Burrito Bowl has more protein with 11g per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 4.4g. Chipotle Burrito Bowl provides 6.6g more protein per 100g serving.

Which is better for weight loss, Quinoa or Chipotle Burrito Bowl?

For weight loss, Quinoa is the better choice with only 120 calories per 100g compared to 170 calories in Chipotle Burrito Bowl. Chipotle Burrito Bowl also offers 3.2g of fiber per 100g, which helps you feel fuller longer.

Does Quinoa or Chipotle Burrito Bowl have fewer carbs?

Chipotle Burrito Bowl has fewer carbs with 17g per 100g, compared to Quinoa with 21g. If you're following a low-carb diet, Chipotle Burrito Bowl is the better option with 4.0g fewer carbohydrates.

About Our Data

All nutrition data in this comparison is sourced from the USDA FoodData Central, the official food composition database maintained by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Values are based on 100g servings for accurate comparison.

Health Disclaimer: This comparison is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical or dietary advice. Nutritional needs vary by individual. The best food choice depends on your personal health goals, dietary requirements, and preferences. Consult a healthcare provider or registered dietitian for personalized nutrition guidance.