Born Simple vs Chipotle Chicken Bowl: Which Wins?
A factual comparison of nutrition, protein, price, and convenience between shelf-stable and restaurant chicken bowls
Born Simple Team
Published 11/22/2025
Disclaimer: Born Simple is not affiliated with Chipotle Mexican Grill. Nutrition and pricing data for Chipotle is sourced from their official website (March 2025) and represents typical values. Actual nutrition varies based on customization and location. Prices are approximate and vary by market.
You're searching for "chipotle protein bowl" because you want a convenient, high-protein meal. But is the restaurant chain your only option? Let's compare Chipotle's fresh chicken bowl to Born Simple's shelf-stable alternative across the metrics that matter: protein content, nutrition, cost, and convenience.
Both options deliver protein-packed chicken bowls, but they serve different needs. Here's an honest, fact-based comparison to help you decide which fits your lifestyle.
At a Glance Comparison
| Metric | Born Simple | Chipotle |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 22g | 35-40g (typical) |
| Calories | 410 | ~650 (typical) |
| Price per Bowl | $3.99-4.99 | $9-11+ |
| Cost per Gram Protein | ~$0.18-0.23 | ~$0.23-0.31 |
| Prep Time | 60 seconds | 10-30 minutes (order + travel) |
| Shelf Life | 12+ months (pantry) | Same day (fresh) |
| Customization | Pre-set recipe | Fully customizable |
Protein & Nutrition Breakdown
22g Born Simple
- • Calories: 410
- • Protein: 22g (44% DV)
- • Fat: 7g
- • Carbs: 68g
- • Fiber: 6g
- • Sodium: 840mg
- • Serving Size: 283g (1 bowl)
Protein Density:
18.6 cal/g protein
35-40g Chipotle (Typical Bowl)
- • Calories: ~650 (varies widely)
- • Protein: 35-40g (with 4oz chicken)
- • Fat: Varies by toppings
- • Carbs: Varies by rice/beans choice
- • Sodium: Highly variable
- • Serving Size: Variable (customizable)
Protein Density:
~17-19 cal/g protein
(Based on typical customization)
💡 The Protein Verdict
Chipotle wins on total protein (35-40g vs 22g), making it better for those needing maximum protein per meal. However, Born Simple delivers comparable protein density with fewer calories, making it more efficient for protein-per-calorie seekers or those managing caloric intake.
Price & Value Comparison
Born Simple
$3.99-4.99
per bowl
Chipotle
$9-11+
per bowl (varies by location)
Savings
~55%
choosing Born Simple
Monthly Cost Comparison
Born Simple (20 meals/month)
$80-100
Chipotle (20 meals/month)
$180-220+
Potential savings: $100-140/month
💰 The Price Verdict
Born Simple is significantly more affordable at roughly half the cost per meal. For budget-conscious protein seekers or those eating multiple protein bowls per week, Born Simple offers substantial savings without sacrificing protein content.
Convenience & Lifestyle Fit
Born Simple Advantages
- ⚡ 60-second prep - Microwave and eat
- 📦 Pantry storage - Stock up, no refrigeration
- 🏠 Available anywhere - Sold at major retailers
- 📅 12+ month shelf life - Emergency meals ready
- 🎯 Consistent portions - Know exactly what you're eating
Chipotle Advantages
- 🌱 Fresh ingredients - Made daily
- 🎨 Full customization - Choose every ingredient
- 🍽️ Restaurant experience - Dining out option
- 🥑 Fresh add-ons - Guacamole, queso, veggies
- 📏 Larger portions available - Add double protein, extra everything
⏱️ The Convenience Verdict
Choose Born Simple when: You need a quick meal at home/office, want to stock your pantry for easy lunches, or need consistent macros for meal planning.
Choose Chipotle when: You want fresh, customizable options, are dining out, or need maximum protein (add double chicken).
When to Choose Each Option
Perfect for Born Simple:
- ✓ Quick office lunches (no refrigeration needed)
- ✓ Budget-conscious meal planning
- ✓ Emergency pantry protein meals
- ✓ Consistent macro tracking (same every time)
- ✓ Late-night protein after gym
- ✓ Travel meals (TSA-friendly, shelf-stable)
- ✓ College dorms/minimal kitchen setups
Perfect for Chipotle:
- ✓ Lunch meetings or social dining
- ✓ When you want fresh, hot food
- ✓ Customizing for specific diet needs
- ✓ Higher protein goals (double chicken)
- ✓ Want fresh vegetables and toppings
- ✓ Treating yourself to restaurant quality
- ✓ Group orders or catering
The Bottom Line
Both Born Simple and Chipotle deliver quality protein-packed chicken bowls, but they serve different needs:
Choose Born Simple if you prioritize convenience, budget, and consistent nutrition for everyday meals. You get solid protein (22g), fewer calories (410), and pay half the price while keeping your pantry stocked for instant meals.
Choose Chipotle if you want maximum protein (35-40g), fresh ingredients, full customization, and the restaurant experience. Yes, you'll pay more and spend more time, but you get fresh-made quality and complete control.
Pro tip: Many protein-seekers use both—Born Simple for quick weekday lunches, Chipotle for fresh weekend meals. There's no wrong choice, just the right tool for the right moment.
Common Questions About Born Simple vs Chipotle
Which has more protein: Born Simple or Chipotle?
A typical Chipotle chicken bowl has more total protein (35-40g) compared to Born Simple (22g). However, Born Simple delivers more protein per calorie and costs significantly less per gram of protein.
Is Born Simple healthier than Chipotle?
Both can fit into a healthy diet. Born Simple has fewer calories (410 vs ~650) and controlled portions. Chipotle offers fresh ingredients and customization. Choose based on your goals: lower calorie and budget-friendly (Born Simple) or fresh and higher protein (Chipotle).
How does the taste compare?
Chipotle offers fresh, made-to-order meals with customizable toppings. Born Simple is a shelf-stable convenience meal with authentic chipotle flavor. They serve different needs: restaurant experience vs. quick pantry meal.
How much cheaper is Born Simple?
Born Simple costs $3.99-4.99 vs Chipotle's $9-11+ per bowl. That's roughly 50-60% savings. Over a month of lunches (20 meals), you could save $100-140 choosing Born Simple.
How long does each take to prepare?
Born Simple takes 60 seconds in the microwave. Chipotle requires ordering (online or in-person), travel/delivery time, and typically 10-30 minutes total depending on location and wait times.
Ready to Try Born Simple?
Get 22g of protein, ready in 60 seconds, for half the cost of a restaurant bowl.