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This chicken burrito recipe is a weeknight staple at our house. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy families. I learned the basics from my mom, but over the years I’ve added a few of my own twists to make it extra special. With simple ingredients and a flavor-packed chicken filling, these aren’t just any burritos; they’re a fiesta in a tortilla! Get ready for a delicious and satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Why This Chicken Burrito Recipe Is Special
This chicken burrito recipe stands out because it uses everyday ingredients, yet the blend of spices and fast cooking method results in incredibly tender and flavorful chicken. You likely have everything you need in your pantry already! Plus, you can easily customize the spice level and fillings to please everyone. My wife loves it when I make a big batch for quick lunches throughout the week! If you’re looking for other quick lunch ideas, check out this Chicken Cheesesteak Recipe.
Ingredients
This recipe is easier than you think! Just follow these simple steps.
For the Chicken Filling
1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon chili powder
1 tablespoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling the Burritos
10-12 large flour tortillas (or whole wheat or gluten-free alternatives)
2 cups cooked rice (white or brown)
1.5 cups cooked black beans or pinto beans (canned or homemade)
1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend)
1 cup salsa (your favorite kind – mild, medium, or hot)
1/2 cup sour cream (optional)
1/2 cup guacamole (optional)
Other toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, chopped onions, cilantro
Instructions
Preparing the Chicken Filling
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. A cast-iron skillet or a non-stick pan works best.
- Season the chicken: In a medium bowl, combine the chicken pieces with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Toss well to coat the chicken evenly.
- Cook the chicken: Add the seasoned chicken to the hot skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through. You’ll know the chicken is done when it’s no longer pink inside and the juices run clear. Don’t overcrowd the pan; cook in batches if necessary. For perfectly cooked chicken every time, check out our Best Broiled Chicken recipe.
- Check for doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Shred the chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it cool slightly. Then, using two forks, shred the chicken into smaller pieces.
Assembling the Burritos
- Warm the tortillas: Warm the tortillas to make them pliable. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for a few seconds per side, in the microwave wrapped in a damp paper towel, or in a warm oven.
- Lay out the tortillas: Place a warm tortilla on a flat surface.
- Add the filling: Spread a layer of rice down the center of the tortilla, followed by the shredded chicken, beans, and cheese. Don’t overfill, or it will be difficult to wrap. Looking for a delicious rice dish to serve alongside? Try our Chicken and Yellow Rice Recipe.
- Add toppings (optional): Add your favorite toppings, such as salsa, sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, or cilantro.
- Fold the burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then fold the bottom edge up and over the filling. Tuck the filling in tightly and continue rolling upwards to form a burrito.
- Keep warm: If you’re making multiple burritos, wrap them in foil to keep them warm until ready to serve.
- Grilling or baking (optional): For a crispier burrito, you can grill or bake the assembled burritos for a few minutes per side. If baking, preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and bake for about 10-15 minutes.
Tips and Variations
Customizing Your Chicken Burrito Recipe
This chicken burrito recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to get creative with the fillings! Instead of black beans, try pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans. Try our delicious Baked Beans with Ground Beef Recipe for a hearty addition. Add some sauteed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms for extra flavor and nutrients. For cheese lovers, explore different options like Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican blend.
To adjust the spice level, simply add more or less chili powder. For a milder burrito, reduce the amount or omit it altogether. For extra heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños. My kids prefer milder burritos, so I often set aside some chicken before adding the spices and then mix in a little mild salsa for them.
My grandma always added a squeeze of lime juice to the chicken filling. It’s a simple trick, but it really brightens up the flavors. Try it! You won’t regret it. For more healthy and refreshing options, consider our Green Juice Recipe.
Making Ahead and Storage
For busy weeknights, you can prepare the chicken filling ahead of time. Cook the chicken and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also cook the rice and beans in advance. This makes assembling the burritos a breeze when you’re short on time. For tips on storing leftover chicken, see our guide on How Long Leftover Chicken Lasts.
Leftover burritos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, wrap the burrito in a damp paper towel and microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, flipping occasionally, until warmed through and slightly crispy. This method helps prevent them from getting soggy. You can also freeze the cooked chicken filling for longer storage. Just thaw it in the refrigerator before using. For information on food safety and storage, check out Food Safety Tips from Healthline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What do you put in a chicken burrito?
Chicken burritos typically include seasoned chicken, rice, beans, cheese, and salsa. But the fun part is customizing! You can add other toppings like sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, tomatoes, onions, cilantro, or anything else you enjoy.
What is the secret to the best burrito?
The secret to a truly delicious burrito lies in well-seasoned ingredients and proper assembly. Don’t overfill the burrito, as this makes it difficult to wrap and prone to bursting. Warm the tortillas beforehand for added flexibility, and fold them tightly to prevent spillage.
What do you put inside a burrito?
Burritos are incredibly versatile! You can put a variety of fillings inside, from classic combinations like rice, beans, and meat (chicken, beef, pork) to more creative options like roasted vegetables, tofu, potatoes, or even scrambled eggs for breakfast burritos. For a fun twist, try our Sushi Bake recipe.
What’s the difference between a chicken burrito and a chicken enchilada?
While both chicken burritos and chicken enchiladas use tortillas and chicken, they are prepared differently. Burritos are typically wrapped in large flour tortillas and served dry, while enchiladas are smaller, often made with corn tortillas, coated in sauce (like enchilada sauce), and baked in the oven. They have distinct flavors and textures.
Serving and Enjoying Your Chicken Burritos
These chicken burritos are delicious on their own, but you can elevate the meal by serving them alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette, some flavorful Mexican rice, or a side of refried beans. For a complete Mexican-themed feast, add some chips and salsa, guacamole, and perhaps even a pitcher of margaritas (for the grown-ups, of course!).
This chicken burrito recipe is more than just a meal in our family; it’s a tradition. It’s the perfect dish for a busy weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a fun gathering with friends. Everyone loves customizing their own burritos, and it’s a great way to get the kids involved in the kitchen. My twins, especially, love adding their own toppings. There’s something truly special about sharing a delicious, home-cooked meal with loved ones. Enjoy!
