Chicken Burritos are a deliciously satisfying meal that brings together seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and a medley of vibrant toppings all wrapped in a warm tortilla. This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize it to your taste. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun meal to share with friends, chicken burritos are sure to please and fill you up.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will adore this chicken burrito recipe for its explosive flavors and simplicity. The combination of tender, marinated chicken with fluffy rice, hearty beans, and fresh toppings creates an unforgettable taste experience. Plus, the cooking process is straightforward — perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike. This recipe also fits well into various dietary lifestyles, as you can easily adapt the ingredients to suit your needs, making it a go-to for family meals or meal prepping.
Tips and Tricks
1. Marinate the Chicken: For maximum flavor, let your chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight if possible.
2. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh salsa, ripe avocados, and crisp lettuce elevate the dish. When possible, opt for fresh produce.
3. Warm the Tortillas: Warm your tortillas briefly in a pan or microwave to make them pliable and enhance their flavor.
4. Don’t Overfill: When assembling, avoid overfilling the burrito to ensure easy rolling and prevent tearing.
5. Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick!
Make Ahead Tips
You can prep various components ahead of time to save on cooking during busy days. Cook the rice and beans a day in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Marinate the chicken up to 24 hours before cooking, and chop any vegetables needed for toppings in advance. Prepared ingredients will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Recipe Variations
- Protein Swaps: Substitute chicken with ground turkey, beef, or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
- Spice it Up: Add jalapeños or hot sauce for extra heat.
- Different Beans: Experiment with black beans, pinto beans, or even lentils for a twist.
- Tortilla Alternatives: Try corn tortillas for a gluten-free option or lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.
How to Serve
Serve your chicken burritos warm, cut in half to showcase the colorful fillings. Pair them with a side of homemade guacamole, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad. Garnish with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, consider a refreshing margarita or a light Mexican lager. A classic iced tea with lemon also complements the flavors beautifully. As for sides, try serving with Mexican street corn or a zesty corn salad. For dessert, churros or flan would make an excellent finish to your meal.
How to Store
Leftover burritos can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap to maintain freshness. For longer storage, freeze the burritos (wrapped in foil), and they can last up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave, ensuring they are heated through.
Equipment Needed
- Cast iron skillet or grill pan for cooking chicken
- Large saucepan for cooking rice
- Mixing bowls for marinating chicken and assembling ingredients
- Aluminum foil for wrapping burritos (optional)
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan option, replace chicken with sautéed mushrooms or jackfruit, and use vegan cheese. For a dairy-free version, skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. To make it nut-free, ensure any toppings like sauces do not contain nuts or nut oils.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the summer, use fresh tomatoes and corn for a burst of flavor, while in the winter, canned tomatoes can work in a pinch. Incorporating seasonal greens like spinach or kale can add nutrition and color throughout the year.
Recipe FAQs
- Can I use frozen chicken? Yes, but ensure it’s fully thawed before marinating for even flavor distribution.
- How long do I cook the chicken? Typically, about 6-7 minutes per side on medium heat, but ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Can I make this recipe gluten-free? Absolutely! Just use gluten-free tortillas and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
How To Make Chicken Burrito
Chicken Burrito
Chicken Burritos are a deliciously satisfying meal that brings together seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and a medley of vibrant toppings all wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients
- 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup black or pinto beans (canned, drained, and rinsed)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 4 large flour tortillas
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Cook the Chicken: Heat a cast iron skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Tortillas: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable.
- Assemble the Burritos: Lay a tortilla flat, and layer with rice, beans, sliced chicken, salsa, cheese, avocado, and lettuce. Be careful not to overfill.
- Roll the Burrito: Fold in the sides and roll from the bottom up, tucking in the filling tightly as you go. Repeat with remaining tortillas and fillings.
- Serve: Serve the burritos warm, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges on the side.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 681Total Fat 27gSaturated Fat 9gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 16gCholesterol 79mgSodium 1026mgCarbohydrates 74gFiber 12gSugar 4gProtein 38g
All Chicken Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making chicken burritos at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to customize every bite to your liking. From the marinated chicken to the fresh toppings, each component plays a crucial role in creating a delicious meal that everyone will love. Don’t hesitate to get creative with your ingredients and flavors — after all, the best recipes are the ones that reflect your personal taste! Enjoy your culinary adventure!