Chicken Burritos Recipe

Introduction

Chicken Burritos are one of the most popular and satisfying meals in Mexican cuisine. These delicious wraps are filled with tender, seasoned chicken, rice, beans, fresh vegetables, and a variety of tasty condiments, all wrapped in a warm, soft flour tortilla. Whether you’re enjoying them for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack, chicken burritos are a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any occasion. They’re easy to make, full of flavor, and customizable to suit everyone’s taste.

This recipe is simple yet full of bold flavors that come together in every bite. With just a few ingredients and a little time, you can have a meal that’s as flavorful as it is filling. Whether you’re making burritos for a family meal, a fun gathering with friends, or a quick weeknight dinner, this chicken burrito recipe will become one of your go-to meals.

Why You’ll Love Chicken Burritos

• Flavorful Filling: The combination of tender, seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and fresh toppings provides a balanced and mouthwatering filling in every bite.
• Customizable: Burritos are highly customizable to meet your preferences. Whether you want extra cheese, spicy salsa, or creamy guacamole, the toppings are endless. You can also add veggies like peppers, onions, or lettuce to make it even more filling.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Chicken burritos are perfect for meal prepping. You can make a large batch, freeze them, and have a quick, satisfying meal ready when you need it.
• Quick and Easy: While you may think that burritos require a lot of time and effort, this recipe is actually very quick to prepare. With a little pre-cooking of the chicken and rice, the rest of the process is simple and fast.
• Family-Friendly: Chicken burritos are a hit with both adults and kids. With the option to tailor the fillings and toppings to each person’s preferences, everyone can create their perfect burrito.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes (including cooking time)
• Preparation Time: 15 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: Approximately 4-6 servings
• Calories per Serving: Around 500-600 calories per burrito, depending on the fillings and toppings.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 500-600 kcal
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 4g

Ingredients

For the Chicken Filling:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1 cup black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice

For the Burritos:

• 4-6 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1/2 cup salsa (mild or spicy)
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 avocado, sliced or guacamole (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
• 1/4 cup diced tomatoes (optional)

Special Equipment

While making Chicken Burritos is a straightforward process, having the right equipment can make the job even easier. Here’s what you’ll need:

1. Large Skillet: A large skillet will be used to cook the chicken and sauté the filling ingredients, ensuring that the chicken is evenly cooked and well-seasoned.
2. Cooking Pot: You will need a pot to cook the rice, whether you’re making it from scratch or reheating leftover rice.
3. Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl to combine the rice, beans, corn, and other ingredients for the filling.
4. Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping fresh vegetables, cilantro, and slicing avocado, a sharp knife and cutting board are essential.
5. Tongs: Tongs are helpful for flipping the chicken while cooking and assembling the burritos.
6. Aluminum Foil (optional): If you’re planning on storing the burritos for later, aluminum foil is great for wrapping them up to keep them fresh.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken

To begin, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Place the chicken in the skillet and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center. Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes before shredding.

After resting, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks. Set the shredded chicken aside while you prepare the other ingredients.

2. Cook the Rice

If you haven’t already cooked the rice, follow the package instructions to make 1 cup of cooked rice. Brown rice or white rice both work well for this recipe. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.

3. Prepare the Burrito Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken with the cooked rice, black beans (or pinto beans), corn kernels, and lime juice. Stir everything together to combine the ingredients evenly. Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices if needed.

4. Warm the Tortillas

Warm the flour tortillas to make them easier to roll. You can do this by placing them in a dry skillet over low heat for about 30 seconds per side, or microwaving them for 20-30 seconds with a damp paper towel to keep them soft and pliable. Make sure not to overheat the tortillas, as they may become brittle and tear when you try to roll them.

5. Assemble the Burritos

To assemble each burrito, place a warmed tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and rice mixture into the center of the tortilla. Top with shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, fresh cilantro, and any other optional toppings like avocado, diced onions, or diced tomatoes.

Once the fillings are in place, fold in the sides of the tortilla and carefully roll it up from the bottom, tucking in the sides as you go to ensure everything stays inside.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Once the burritos are wrapped tightly, they’re ready to be served! You can enjoy them immediately or wrap them in foil to keep them warm for later. For an extra touch, serve the burritos with a side of chips, guacamole, or a fresh salad.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Burritos

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, using store-bought rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut. It’s already cooked and seasoned, which helps save time without sacrificing flavor.
• Customize the Fillings: Burritos are incredibly versatile, so feel free to add or subtract ingredients based on your preferences. You can include sautéed peppers and onions, shredded lettuce, or even switch the chicken for beef or pork.
• Season to Taste: Chicken burritos should be packed with flavor, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasonings and spices. Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or a dash of cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Toasting the Burrito: After assembling the burritos, you can toast them in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to give them a crispy exterior. This step adds texture and holds the burrito together while you eat.
• Freezing Burritos: If you want to make a big batch of chicken burritos for later, you can freeze them. After assembling the burritos, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave them until heated through.

Variations of Chicken Burritos

• Spicy Chicken Burritos: If you like things spicy, add some chopped jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa to the filling. You can also use spicy pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.
• Vegetarian Burritos: To make a vegetarian version of this recipe, skip the chicken and fill the burritos with a variety of vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, zucchini, corn, and beans. Add some cheese and guacamole for extra flavor.
• Chicken Fajita Burritos: For a fajita-inspired burrito, sauté chicken strips with bell peppers and onions, and season with fajita seasoning. The result is a flavorful and colorful filling that will add a burst of freshness to your burrito.
• Grilled Chicken Burritos: Instead of cooking the chicken in a skillet, grill the chicken for added smoky flavor. Marinate the chicken with your favorite spices or a lime marinade for an extra tangy kick before grilling.
• BBQ Chicken Burritos: For a unique twist, use BBQ sauce instead of traditional salsa to flavor the chicken. Combine the chicken with the rice, beans, and cheese, and add a tangy BBQ sauce for a sweet and smoky burrito.

Storage and Shelf Life

Chicken burritos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to let them cool down completely before placing them in an airtight container.

If you want to freeze the burritos for later, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply bake them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or microwave them until heated through.

Side Dishes and Pairings for Chicken Burritos

• Mexican Rice: A classic side dish, Mexican rice is a flavorful addition to any burrito meal. Its light, fluffy texture pairs well with the rich, savory flavors of the burrito.
• Guacamole and Chips: Creamy guacamole with crunchy tortilla chips is the perfect accompaniment to chicken burritos. It adds a refreshing touch and enhances the overall meal.
• Grilled Vegetables: For a healthier side, grill some vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob. The smoky flavors of the grilled veggies make a great contrast to the savory burrito filling.
• Corn Salsa: A fresh, tangy corn salsa adds brightness and texture to the burrito meal. The sweetness of the corn pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and rice filling.

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Conclusion

Chicken Burritos are a delicious, customizable meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you enjoy them spicy, cheesy, or loaded with fresh toppings, these burritos are a crowd-pleasing meal that will leave everyone satisfied. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, chicken burritos are a great choice for quick weeknight dinners, family meals, or meal prepping. So gather your ingredients, roll up your burritos, and enjoy a tasty and satisfying dish that’s full of flavor!