If you’re ready for a dinner that feels like a delicious hug after a long day, look no further than this Chicken Burritos Recipe! These burritos are stuffed with tender seasoned chicken, creamy black beans, fluffy rice, melty cheese, and finished with zesty salsa and fresh cilantro. Everything gets tucked snugly in a warm tortilla, making each bite the perfect mix of hearty, bright, and utterly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy meal for yourself, this Chicken Burritos Recipe is a reliable favorite that turns any night into a mini fiesta.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe is all about simple, everyday ingredients—nothing fancy, but every component brings something special to the table. From the comfort of shredded chicken to the fresh lime juice that lifts all the flavors, here’s how each item amps up your burrito experience.
- Cooked shredded chicken: The juicy foundation of your filling; rotisserie chicken makes a great shortcut!
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps everything in the pan cook up beautifully.
- Onion (diced): Sautéed onion gives the filling a subtle sweetness and depth.
- Garlic (minced): For aromatic, crave-worthy flavor that permeates every bite.
- Ground cumin: Provides that signature Tex-Mex warmth you expect in a burrito.
- Chili powder: A gentle kick of heat and earthiness that ties everything together.
- Paprika: Adds gorgeous color and a mild smokiness.
- Salt and black pepper: Enhances and balances all the other flavors in the dish.
- Black beans (drained and rinsed): Give heartiness and creamy texture, plus a protein boost.
- Cooked rice: The starchy element that makes every bite altogether more satisfying.
- Shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into gooey perfection.
- Salsa: Infuses juiciness and that unmistakable tangy, spicy kick.
- Sour cream: Adds a cooling, creamy touch and lovely mouthfeel.
- Fresh cilantro (chopped): Gives your burritos a fresh, herbal pop.
- Lime juice: Brightens the whole mix with citrusy zing.
- Large flour tortillas: The cozy exterior that wraps everything up into a delicious handheld meal.
How to Make Chicken Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Onions and Garlic
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add your diced onions and let them gently soften and turn translucent, stirring occasionally for about 4 to 5 minutes. Once they’re just right, toss in the minced garlic and let that savory aroma fill your kitchen—this is your flavor base for the Chicken Burritos Recipe!
Step 2: Add Spices and Season
Sprinkle the ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and black pepper into the skillet. Stir everything together, coating the onions and garlic with those earthy, spicy notes. This quick step makes a big difference, toasting the spices so they really pop in the final dish.
Step 3: Stir In Chicken, Beans, and Rice
Now it’s time to add the shredded chicken, black beans, and cooked rice. Using a large spoon, fold the mixture together and let everything heat through for 3 to 4 minutes. At this point, your filling is looking generous and hearty—perfect for tucking into tortillas.
Step 4: Mix in Salsa, Lime, Cilantro, and Sour Cream
Take the skillet off the heat and brighten up the filling with salsa, a generous squeeze of lime juice, chopped fresh cilantro, and creamy sour cream. Give it a final stir until everything is beautifully combined. This is the secret to extra-moist, flavor-packed burritos!
Step 5: Fill and Wrap the Burritos
Lay your flour tortillas out on a clean surface. Spoon an even amount of the chicken mixture onto each one, then sprinkle the shredded cheese over the top. Fold in the sides, roll everything up tightly, and you’ve got yourself a set of gorgeous, plump burritos.
Step 6: Optional – Crisp the Burritos
If you love that golden, toasty finish, wipe out your skillet, return it to medium heat, and sear the burritos for 2 to 3 minutes per side. The outside gets crispy, while the cheese inside melts dreamily—like a burrito upgrade you’ll want to make every time!
How to Serve Chicken Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
The beauty of the Chicken Burritos Recipe is how endlessly customizable it is when it comes to toppings. Pile on extra salsa, dollops of sour cream, slices of creamy avocado, or a sprinkle of jalapeños for a little extra fire. And don’t forget more fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime to make the flavors sing!
Side Dishes
A Chicken Burritos Recipe is perfectly filling, but a few easy sides can turn it into a true feast. Try pairing with a bright corn salad, crunchy tortilla chips, homemade guacamole, or a citrusy slaw. Even a simple side of refried beans brings out the comfort factor.
Creative Ways to Present
Hosting a party? Cut the burritos into bite-sized pieces and secure with toothpicks for burrito bites, or set up a build-your-own burrito bar with endless toppings. If you’re feeling cozy, wrap each burrito in foil and pack them for the ultimate picnic or lunchbox main. This Chicken Burritos Recipe is adaptable to any occasion!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftover burritos (lucky you!), simply let them cool to room temperature, then wrap tightly in foil or plastic wrap. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days—perfect for grab-and-go lunches or easy weeknight dinners.
Freezing
This Chicken Burritos Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap each burrito individually in foil and stash them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep their texture and flavor for up to two months, making your future self very happy on a busy day.
Reheating
To reheat, unwrap the burrito and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes until warmed through. You can also reheat in the oven (wrap in foil) at 350°F for about 15 minutes. For extra crispiness, give each side a quick toast in a hot skillet after reheating.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken in this Chicken Burritos Recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut here. Just shred the meat, remove any skin or bones, and use it exactly as you would cooked chicken in this recipe.
Are there substitutions for black beans?
Yes! Pinto beans, kidney beans, or even chili beans can be swapped in for black beans if that’s what you have. Each brings its own unique texture and flavor to the Chicken Burritos Recipe.
Can I make this Chicken Burritos Recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Just leave out the chicken and add extra beans, grilled veggies, or even chopped mushrooms for a super satisfying meatless version.
How do I keep burritos from getting soggy?
Allow your filling to cool slightly before rolling, and be moderate with moist ingredients like salsa and sour cream inside. If making ahead, wrap tightly and consider searing them for extra protection against sogginess.
What’s the best way to meal-prep this Chicken Burritos Recipe?
Prepare the filling and tortillas ahead of time, then assemble and wrap burritos. Store in the fridge for a few days, or freeze for longer. They’re perfect for quick lunches or busy nights when you want a homemade meal with zero fuss.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving something flavorful, satisfying, and wonderfully easy to make, you can’t go wrong with this Chicken Burritos Recipe. It’s the kind of meal that fits into any schedule and always delivers big smiles. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and discover why this chicken burrito is about to be your new go-to favorite. Enjoy!
Print
Chicken Burritos Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Delicious and easy-to-make chicken burritos that are perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. These burritos are loaded with flavorful ingredients and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup salsa
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Juice of 1 lime
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic, cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and cooked rice. Cook until heated through.
- Finish the Burrito: Remove from heat and stir in salsa, lime juice, cilantro, and sour cream. Divide the mixture onto tortillas, top with cheese, fold in the sides, and roll tightly into a burrito.
- Optional: For a crispy exterior, sear the burritos in a skillet for 2–3 minutes per side. Serve warm with extra salsa, sour cream, or guacamole.
Notes
- These burritos freeze well—wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
- You can customize by adding corn, jalapeños, or chopped bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 520
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 670 mg
- Fat: 20 g
- Saturated Fat: 8 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 46 g
- Fiber: 6 g
- Protein: 36 g
- Cholesterol: 85 mg
