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Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe

Basic Chicken Burrito Recipe - Quick Delicious Meals

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. 
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 35 minutes
Servings: 5
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 500

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:
  • 600 g - 1.2 lb
  • 2 - tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 - onion, chopped
  • 2 - garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 - red bell pepper, diced
  • 400 g - 14 oz
  • 1/4 - cup water
  • 2 - tablespoons lime juice new ingredient for freshness
Rice (Choose One):
  • 2 2.5 - cups cooked plain white rice
  • 2 2.5 - cups Mexican red rice my favorite for its flavor!
Other Stuffings:
  • 400 g - 14 oz
  • 1 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

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Burrito Seasoning
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. 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
  1. You have two delicious options here:
  2. 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.
  3. 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
  1. 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!