If you’re craving a meal that’s bursting with flavor, hearty textures, and a comforting warmth, this Chicken Burritos Recipe is going to become your new go-to. Imagine tender shredded chicken mixed with a vibrant medley of rice, black beans, corn, and just the right amount of spices, all wrapped in a soft flour tortilla and melting with cheese. It’s a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dish that’s quick enough for weeknights but special enough to serve guests. Whether you’re new to burritos or a seasoned fan, this recipe balances simplicity and bold tastes in the most delicious way.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple staples found in most kitchens, but each one plays a key role in creating a balanced, flavorful Chicken Burritos Recipe. Combining protein, veggies, and spices ensures every bite is deliciously satisfying and colorful.
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken: Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully for quick prep and great taste.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a smooth richness and helps soften the onions and garlic.
- 1/2 cup diced onion: Brings a sweet sharpness when cooked down.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Provides a warm, aromatic depth.
- 1 cup cooked rice: A comforting base that absorbs all the flavors perfectly.
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds creaminess and fiber, balancing the texture.
- 1/2 cup corn (frozen or canned): Offers a subtle sweetness and pop of color.
- 1/2 cup salsa: Packs a zesty, tangy punch that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Gives the burritos a gentle smoky heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings an earthy, warm spice note characteristic of Mexican cuisine.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the other flavors.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: Adds just a touch of bite.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: For gooey, melty goodness inside and on top.
- 6 large flour tortillas: Soft, sturdy wraps that hold all the delicious filling securely.
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, extra salsa, chopped cilantro: Perfect for adding freshness and creaminess when serving.
How to Make Chicken Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and cook them gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until they’re soft and translucent. Then add the minced garlic, stirring for just 30 seconds until fragrant. This builds a flavorful base that enhances the entire dish.
Step 2: Mix the Filling
Next, add the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, corn, and salsa to the skillet. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, then stir everything together thoroughly. Let the mixture cook for about 4 to 5 minutes to warm through and let the spices meld beautifully with the ingredients.
Step 3: Add Cheese to the Filling
Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese right away. The cheese will melt into the mixture, adding creaminess and an irresistible savory element that makes the filling extra special.
Step 4: Prepare the Tortillas
Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for around 20 seconds. This step makes them soft and flexible, so they roll up easily without tearing.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Evenly distribute the chicken filling down the middle of each tortilla. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese, then fold in the sides and roll tightly from the bottom to enclose the filling securely. The result is a hearty, hand-held meal packed with flavor and texture.
How to Serve Chicken Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
These burritos shine even brighter when topped with creamy sour cream, zesty guacamole, extra salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Each garnish adds a burst of freshness, tanginess, or cooling richness that complements the savory filling perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair your Chicken Burritos Recipe with a crisp green salad or tortilla chips with salsa and guacamole for a full-on fiesta. A side of Mexican street corn or a simple rice and bean salad also works beautifully to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the burritos cut in half on a platter with all the toppings in small bowls so everyone can customize their own. You can even turn the filling into a burrito bowl by skipping the tortillas and layering the ingredients in a bowl for a gluten-free option.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days, making for an easy next-day meal that tastes just as fantastic.
Freezing
This Chicken Burritos Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual burritos in foil and place them in a freezer-safe container or bag. They’ll last up to 2 months, perfect for meal prepping or a quick dinner solution on busy nights.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the foil and pop the burritos in the oven at 375°F for about 20 to 25 minutes until hot through, or microwave them until steaming. This method keeps the tortillas soft while ensuring the cheesy filling is perfectly melted again.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of meat for this Chicken Burritos Recipe?
Absolutely! While chicken is a classic choice, you can swap it with cooked beef, pork, or even a plant-based meat substitute to suit your taste and dietary needs.
Are these burritos spicy?
This recipe has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to chili powder and cumin, but you can easily adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or a dash of hot sauce according to your preference.
What’s the best way to make these burritos gluten-free?
Simply substitute the flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas or large lettuce leaves for a fresh, low-carb alternative that still holds the delicious filling well.
Can I prepare the filling in advance?
Yes! The filling can be made a day ahead and refrigerated, making assembling the burritos on the day of serving quick and stress-free.
How can I make this recipe lower in carbs?
Swap the rice for cauliflower rice or skip it entirely to reduce the carb content. Also, choosing low-carb or high-fiber tortillas will help keep it lighter while still delicious.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken Burritos Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate, combining bold flavors with comforting textures that are perfect any day of the week. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for a satisfying meal prep idea, these burritos never disappoint. Give this recipe a try and get ready to fall in love with a new favorite that’s as easy to make as it is delicious to eat!
Print
Chicken Burritos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 6 burritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Description
This easy Chicken Burritos recipe features shredded chicken, rice, black beans, corn, and a blend of spices all cooked together on the stovetop. Wrapped in warm flour tortillas and topped with melted cheddar cheese, these burritos make a perfect main course for meal prep or quick weeknight dinners. Serve with sour cream, guacamole, salsa, or chopped cilantro for added flavor.
Ingredients
Filling Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked and shredded chicken (rotisserie works great)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1/2 cup corn (frozen or canned)
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
Other Ingredients
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, extra salsa, chopped cilantro
Instructions
- Prepare the sauté base: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds to release its aroma.
- Add and combine main filling: Add the shredded chicken, cooked rice, rinsed black beans, corn, salsa, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until the mixture is heated through.
- Incorporate cheese: Remove the skillet from heat and stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese until evenly distributed and melted slightly into the filling.
- Warm the tortillas: Microwave the flour tortillas for about 20 seconds to make them soft and pliable for rolling.
- Assemble the burritos: Spoon the chicken and rice filling evenly onto each tortilla. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese on top of each filling. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly from the bottom to form burritos.
- Serve: Serve the burritos warm with optional toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, extra salsa, or chopped cilantro.
Notes
- These burritos can be wrapped in foil and frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, bake at 375°F for 20 to 25 minutes or microwave until heated through.
- For a lighter version, swap rice for quinoa or use low-carb tortillas.
- To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute chicken with cooked beans or a plant-based protein.
