Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals

For me, nothing quite says “let’s gather around the dinner table” like a warm, hearty chicken burrito. I often find myself whipping these up for family gatherings, game nights, or simply a busy weekday. 

Pair it with some guacamole, fresh salsa, or a crunchy side salad, and you’ve got a meal that feels both festive and comforting. Every bite wraps up a world of flavors, and you’d better believe it’s going to be a hit!

The basic chicken burrito is an approachable dish that’s as comforting as it is versatile. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just treating yourself, it checks all the boxes. 

This recipe is easy, delicious, and does wonders for weeknight dinners when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

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What is Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe?

A basic chicken burrito features seasoned chicken, rice, beans, and an array of toppings all wrapped-up snugly in a tortilla. It’s not just any old dish—each burrito becomes a personalized flavor fiesta, with options to customize ingredients to your liking. The balance of protein, grains, and fresh ingredients makes it a wholesome meal you’ll love.

Why This Recipe Works?

This recipe stands out because of its simplicity and the use of fresh ingredients. The burrito seasoning elevates the chicken, making it flavorful without overwhelming the palate. Plus, it’s designed for flexibility; you can throw in whatever veggies or toppings you fancy. It’s undeniably a crowd-pleaser and can be whipped up with minimal fuss—perfect for your busy lifestyle!

How Does It Taste Like?

Imagine biting into a warm, soft tortilla bursting with juicy chicken, delectable spices, creamy refried beans, and hints of fresh veggie crunch. The combination of savory flavors, mixed with the creaminess of the cheese, creates a taste explosion that’s satisfying yet not overwhelming. And if you add a drizzle of your favorite sauce? Well, that’s just the cherry on top!

What Sets This Recipe Apart from Other Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe Variations?

What makes my burrito recipe different? The fresh burrito seasoning gives this dish a homemade touch that bottled mixes can’t quite match. I’ve replaced some traditional elements to enhance nutrition without sacrificing flavor, making it a more wholesome choice. And let’s not forget the opportunity for customization—you can easily switch ingredients up based on what your family enjoys or what you have on hand.

The Ingredients

For the Burrito:

– 5 large flour tortillas (around 20cm/8″ wide)

Burrito Seasoning:

– 1 teaspoon onion powder

– 2 teaspoons dried cumin

– 2 teaspoons paprika

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

– 3/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, adjust for spice preferences)

– 1 teaspoon garlic powder (new ingredient for added flavor)

Chicken Filling:

– 600g (1.2 lb) chicken breast, halved horizontally

– 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided

– 1/2 onion, chopped

– 2 garlic cloves, minced

– 1 red bell pepper, diced

– 400g (14 oz) canned refried beans

– 1/4 cup water

– 2 tablespoons lime juice (new ingredient for freshness)

Rice (Choose One):

– 2.5 cups cooked plain white rice

– 2.5 cups Mexican red rice (my favorite for its flavor!)

Other Stuffings:

– 400g (14 oz) canned corn, drained (or 280g / 9 oz frozen corn, thawed)

– 1.5 cups shredded cheese (Mexican blend or your choice)

– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

For Dunking:

– Your choice: Avocado sauce, sour cream, or salsa

Ingredients From : recipetineats.com

How to Make Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe?

Making these burritos is super straightforward and can be done in just a few steps. Here’s how we’ll roll:

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Burrito Seasoning

In a small bowl, mix together the onion powder, dried oregano, cumin, paprika, black pepper, cayenne pepper, and garlic powder. Set this mix aside as it will lend immense flavor to your chicken.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Take your halved chicken breasts and drizzle one tablespoon of olive oil over them. Rub the oil into the chicken until evenly coated. Then, sprinkle your homemade seasoning generously over the chicken, ensuring it’s well covered.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the remaining tablespoon of olive oil over high heat. Add the seasoned chicken, letting it cook undisturbed for about two minutes. Flip the chicken and cook for another 1.5 minutes until browned. Once cooked through, remove it from the pan and let it rest for about two minutes. After resting, chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.

Step 4: Sauté the Aromatics

In the same skillet, toss in your chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook this mix for about a minute, or until fragrant. Then, add the diced red bell pepper and continue sautéing for about two more minutes, until the onions appear translucent.

Step 5: Complete the Chicken Filling

Next, stir in the refried beans, the chopped chicken, and 1/4 cup of water. Mix well, cooking for another two minutes. You’re aiming for a delicious, thick filling—avoid making it too watery. Let it cool for five minutes. You should notice it thickening as it cools.

Step 6: Warm the Tortillas

To make rolling easier, gently warm your tortillas in the microwave. This softens them and makes them pliable. Lay them flat on a clean work surface.

Step 7: Assemble the Burritos

Start with a scoop of rice on the lower third of each tortilla. Follow this with a generous helping of your chicken filling, a sprinkle of corn, cheese, and fresh cilantro. Make sure not to overfill—there’s an art to burrito wrapping!

Step 8: Wrap It Up

Begin folding the sides of the tortilla inward, tucking the ends as you roll it up tightly. The goal is a neat burrito that can stand on its own.

Step 9: Toast or Bake the Burritos

You have two delicious options here:

1. Pan-Frying: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Place the burritos seam-side down and cook for about two minutes on each side until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.

2. Baking: Wrap the burritos tightly in foil and bake in a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) for about 10 minutes.

Step 10: Serve and Enjoy

Serve these gorgeous burritos warm and let everyone dunk into their favorite sauces—guacamole, sour cream, or salsa. Trust me, they’ll disappear fast!

Notes

– Customizations: Feel free to swap in your favorite protein, such as shredded beef or grilled veggies for a vegetarian option.

– Spice Level: Adjust the cayenne pepper to suit your family’s taste—keep it mild or turn up the heat!

– Meal Prep: These burritos freeze well, so make a batch for busy weeknights.

– Tortilla Choices: Different types of tortillas, including whole wheat or spinach, work beautifully here.

– Serving Size: Ensure to portion them well if you plan on sharing!

How Do You Store This Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe?

To store leftovers, place the wrapped burritos in an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you’re planning on freezing them, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap before storing in a freezer-safe bag. They can last up to three months in the freezer. Reheat directly from frozen or after thawing overnight for best results.

Sides For Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe

Complement your burrito with some of these tasty sides:

– Mexican Street Corn: Charred corn mixed with tangy lime and spices, a must-have for additional flavor.

– Fresh Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice, tomatoes, cilantro, and salt; it’s the perfect creamy contrast.

– Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with your favorite salsa make every bite even more fun.

– Mexican Black Beans: Seasoned black beans add an extra layer of richness to your meal.

– Cilantro Lime Rice: Add zest and freshness to your plate; lime juice and cilantro make plain rice sing!

What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients if They Are Not Present in Your Kitchen?

If you’re missing some ingredients, don’t worry! Here are some easy alternatives:

– Flour Tortillas: Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free version.

– Chicken Breast: Diced turkey or even tofu can work for a vegetarian alternative.

– Refried Beans: Black beans or pinto beans can be used instead.

– Cheese: Any cheese you have on hand, like mozzarella, will work.

– Lime Juice: Apple cider vinegar or lemon juice can add a similar zesty flavor.

Conclusion

Whether for a weeknight family dinner or a cozy Saturday night, the basic chicken burrito is not just a meal—it’s an experience. With the opportunity to customize and make it your own, you’re giving every bite an explosion of flavors. So roll up your sleeves, gather those ingredients, and make your kitchen the place to be. You won’t regret it! Enjoy your delicious burrito adventures!

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