🤤 Easy Chicken Burrito Recipe for Dinner

by | Jun 3, 2024 | Chicken Recipes, Recipes

Imagine it’s a busy Tuesday night. You just got home from a tiring work day. You want something quick, easy, and delicious to eat. Rather than ordering takeout, why not make a homemade chicken burrito that’s as good as from a fast-food place? Using fresh ingredients and real Mexican flavors, this chicken burrito recipe promises a truly satisfying meal.

In a similar situation, this recipe was created out of a desire for something quick yet tasty. The idea of a quick chicken burrito without skimping on flavor sent us to the kitchen. Mixing a few pantry essentials with creativity, we came up with a delicious chicken burrito that everyone loved.

Now, let’s learn a simple way to make an authentic Mexican chicken burrito that’s good for you and tasty too.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • This chicken burrito recipe is easy to prepare for a perfect weeknight meal.
  • It uses fresh, quality ingredients to bring an authentic Mexican chicken burrito taste.
  • The recipe can be adjusted to different flavors and dietary needs.
  • It’s a great mix of easy and healthy, a meal you can count on.
  • Making this homemade chicken burrito guarantees a better choice over takeout.

Ingredients for Easy Chicken Burrito

Starting your perfect chicken burrito means picking the best ingredients. These must-have parts, combined with extra tasty options, let everyone enjoy a great meal. They also help match different diet needs.

Main Components

  • Chicken: 600g / 1.2 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sautéed and sliced into strips
  • Rice: 3 tablespoons of Spanish rice per burrito
  • Beans: Preferably black beans, with each burrito containing around 2 tablespoons
  • Cheese: Typically shredded cheddar, about 2 tablespoons per burrito
  • Tortillas: For wrapping the burrito

Optional Add-Ins

Make your burrito even better with these additions. They can please tastes for all:

  • Diced green chilies for a spicy kick
  • Fresh cilantro and lime juice for a zesty flavor
  • Avocado or guacamole for a creamy texture
  • Sliced jalapenos for extra heat
  • Variety of cheeses like Pepper Jack or Colby Jack
Ingredient Quantity
Chicken 600g / 1.2 lb
Refried Beans 400g / 14oz
White Rice 3 tablespoons per burrito
Cheese 1.5 cups (150g), shredded
Canned Corn 400g
Seasonings Onion powder, cumin powder, cayenne pepper

Preparing the Chicken

Getting chicken ready for burritos is simple yet key. First, cube the chicken breasts evenly. This makes sure they cook the same way. It usually takes about 15 minutes.

Next, cook the chicken until it’s golden brown. At this stage, the chicken is ready to soak up the flavors and spices. To get the seasoning just right, cut the breasts horizontally. It makes the chicken’s surface bigger for spices to cover.

Now, season the chicken well. Use a mix of taco seasoning, lime juice, and some salsa. This combo boosts the dish’s taste. Seasoning the chicken carefully makes each bite delicious and lasting.

preparing chicken for burritos

And making chicken for burritos is extra fun with a top-rated recipe. With an outstanding score, it’s loved by many for dinner. This recipe falls under Mexican and Tex-Mex foods, making it a real pick for fans.

Well, this chicken burrito dish is great for lots of tastes. Plus, each burrito is a good, filling meal. It has 413 calories, 38g of carbs, 26g of protein, and 17g of fat. So, it’s good for a healthy diet too, all while keeping the classic burrito flavor.

Seasoning Your Chicken Perfectly

Getting your chicken seasoning right is key for a tasty burrito. The perfect mix of spices gives it that real Mexican flavor.

Using Spices

The secret to a great chicken burrito is in the chicken burrito spices. Use onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, pepper, and chili powder for a flavorful mix. Add this blend to your chicken for a tasty taste that goes well with all the burrito fillings.

Marinade Tips

If you want even more flavor, try marinating chicken for burritos. Mix your chosen spices with oil and perhaps lime juice. Let the chicken soak it all in for 30 minutes at least. This makes the meat tender and bursting with flavor.

Nutritional Content Amount per Burrito
Calories Approximately 700
Carbohydrates 72g
Protein 49g
Fat 23g
Cholesterol 109mg
Sodium 2051mg (89% of recommended daily value)
Fiber 10g
Vitamin A 2036IU
Vitamin C 101mg
Calcium 470mg
Iron 9mg

Cooking Methods: Stove, Oven, and Instant Pot

When it comes to cooking chicken burritos, you’ve got many options. You can choose between using the stove, oven, or Instant Pot. Each method adds its benefits and flavors to the meal.

chicken burrito cooking methods

Stove Top Method

For a stove top chicken preparation, start by sautéing chicken in a skillet. Use spices like cumin, onion powder, garlic powder, and coriander for flavor. This way lets you watch the meat and make sure it turns out just right. It’s a great way to lock in deep flavors.

Oven Cooking

The oven-baked chicken for burritos is great for cooking a lot at once. Preheat your oven to 375°F, season the chicken, and put it in a dish. After baking for 25-30 minutes or until it reaches 165°F inside, you’re all set. This method keeps the chicken juicy, perfect for sharing with a big group or getting meals ready in advance.

Using an Instant Pot

The Instant Pot chicken burrito method is a quick and efficient option. An Instant Pot cooks your food much faster than other ways. You set it to high pressure for 7 minutes, then let the pressure release naturally for 2 minutes. After that, use the quick release. This method keeps the chicken moist and ready to use for a few days. Top your burritos with cilantro, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and salsa for a tasty, easy meal.

Making Cilantro Lime Rice

The cilantro lime rice recipe adds zip to chicken burritos. It’s earned a 5-star rating based on 98 votes. This authentic cilantro lime rice is quick and tasty, loved by many.

Ingredients for Cilantro Lime Rice

For this fragrant rice for chicken burritos, you’ll need:

  • 1 cup of long-grain jasmine rice
  • 1.5 cups of water
  • 3 teaspoons of extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 small garlic clove, minced
  • 2 scallions, sliced
  • Zest of 1 lime
  • Sea salt to taste
  • 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice
  • 1/4 cup of fresh chopped cilantro
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeño (optional)

This cilantro lime rice recipe can also use brown or cauliflower rice. You can keep it fresh in the fridge for 2 days.

Steps to Follow

  1. Start by rinsing the rice to remove the extra starch. This makes it fluffy.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a pot. Add the garlic and sauté for a minute.
  3. Add the rice, mixing well.
  4. Pour in the water and bring to a boil. Then, lower the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 20 minutes until the rice is cooked and water is gone.
  5. After cooking, let it stand for 5 minutes off heat.
  6. Use a fork to fluff the rice. Then, add scallions, lime zest, sea salt, lime juice, and cilantro. Do this while the rice is warm to get all the flavors in.
  7. For some heat, add red pepper flakes or jalapeño.

This rice goes well with many dishes. Try it with tofu, tempeh, enchiladas, taquitos, or in burrito bowls. It’s great with lots of foods.

Nutritional Information Per Serving
Calories 326
Carbohydrates 19g
Protein 31g
Fat 14g
Saturated Fat 4g
Cholesterol 122mg
Sodium 614mg
Potassium 567mg
Fiber 5g
Sugar 2g
Vitamin A 986IU
Vitamin C 31mg
Calcium 122mg
Iron 2mg

This cilantro lime rice recipe spices up your chicken burritos and adds nutrition. It’s a quick and easy side dish to enjoy.

Adding Beans for Extra Protein

Putting beans in chicken burritos boosts their nutritional value and adds a nice texture. This addition makes your meal more wholesome and satisfying. It also makes the burrito tastier.

Pinto and black beans are great for burritos. Black beans are a top choice. They add 7.6 grams of fiber per serving, making your burrito healthier.

beans for chicken burritos

A serving of a chicken burrito has about 20 grams of protein. Adding beans increases the protein content. This mix is good for your muscles and overall health.

It’s not only nutritious but also a balanced meal. The combo of chicken and beans offers key nutrients.

Here’s how Extreme Wellness High-Fiber tortillas compare to regular flour tortillas:

Tortilla Type Calories Total Fat Carbohydrates Dietary Fiber
Extreme Wellness High-Fiber 60 2% 6% 43%
Regular Flour Tortilla 140 4% 9% 4%

Picking healthier tortillas lowers calories and raises fiber. This change is good for your digestive health. Adding beans to your burrito makes it a healthier choice.

Black beans or other types can make your burrito better. They boost flavor and nutrition. More protein makes your meal keep you full longer.

How to Make a Flavorful Salsa

Making your salsa for burritos is a great idea. It lets you choose what you like and adds more flavor. Start with a basic salsa recipe and make it your own.

Basic Salsa Recipe

Start your easy flavorful salsa with basic, fresh items:

  • 4 ripe tomatoes, finely chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 1/2 cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Juice of one lime
  • Salt to taste

Put all these in a bowl, mix well, and let it sit for 20 minutes. The flavors mix and make a great salsa. This salsa is perfect with chicken burritos. It makes them taste even better.

Customizing Your Salsa

Adding your twist to salsa can make your burritos more fun. Here are some ideas to make your salsa special:

  • Adjusting Heat: Use different chili peppers like jalapeños, serranos, or habaneros for how hot you want it.
  • Fruity Twists: Try adding mango or pineapple for a sweet touch that goes well with the burrito’s flavors.
  • Herbal Notes: Use herbs such as mint or basil to change the taste with a fresh twist.

By using these suggestions, you can make your homemade salsa for burritos unique. Each burrito will have its own special, tasty appeal.

Choosing and Preparing Toppings

Choosing just the right toppings can really make your chicken burrito pop in flavor. Whether it’s the best cheeses or fresh veggies, each option brings something special to the table. It’s about making your meal taste and feel just how you like.

Cheese Selection

When it comes to cheese in your burrito, there’s a lot to think about. Going for shredded Cheddar, crumbled Cotija, or hot Pepper Jack can really up the game. Each cheese brings its own unique flavor, making every bite creamy and tasty.

Vegetable Options

Don’t forget the veggies – they add crunch and freshness. Try tomatoes, avocados, onions, and lettuce for color and health. Adding jalapenos and bell peppers will spice up your burrito, adding more flavor.

Ingredient Amount Calories
Chicken Breasts 3 (boneless, skinless) 321
Onion 1 medium 44
Red Bell Pepper 1 medium 37
Refried Beans (canned) 12-ounce 210
Whole Wheat Tortillas 10 1000
Sliced Black Olives 4-ounce can 100
Tomatoes 2 medium 44
Iceberg Lettuce 1/4 head 8
Sour Cream 4 ounces 120
Salsa 4 ounces 35
Grated Cheddar / Crumbled Cotija Cheese 4 ounces 440

Assembly of the Chicken Burrito

Putting together a chicken burrito just right demands mixing essential parts. First, spread the cooked chicken breast and flavor-packed refried beans on a warm tortilla. Aim for a full ½ cup of fillings in each burrito for a hearty meal.

Next, blend in a rich handful of cilantro lime rice. It’s made with fresh cilantro, lime zest, and a squeeze of juice. This adds a zesty layer to the chicken and beans, boosting taste.

Follow these steps to craft your ideal burrito:

  1. Evenly spread the refried beans and chicken mix down the middle of the tortilla.
  2. Add a layer of cilantro lime rice, making sure it’s spread out.
  3. Finish with cheese, diced veggies, and avocados, choosing what you like.

Here’s a table with nutrition info, per serving:

Calories Carbohydrates (g) Protein (g) Fat (g) Fiber (g) Sodium (mg) Vitamin A (%) Vitamin C (%) Calcium (%) Sugar (g)
700 72 49 23 10 713 21 27 27 5

Now, roll the tortilla up tightly. To keep everything inside, make sure it’s snug. A quick toast on each side not only seals the burrito but also makes it crispy and golden.

Now, savor what you’ve made! Using the correct amounts of ingredients is key. It makes sure your chicken burrito is full of delicious flavors with every bite.

To keep them, wrap each burrito in cling wrap or foil. They stay fresh in the fridge for 4 days or you can freeze them for 3 months. Reheat in an air fryer, oven, or microwave for a quick meal that’s still tasty.

Remember these chicken burrito tips, and you’ll soon be the star of any dinner. Everyone will love what you serve!

Serving Suggestions for an Authentic Mexican Experience

Pairing your chicken burrito with the right sides and beverages truly enhances the dining experience. It gives your meal an authentic Mexican touch. With the right choices, you can make your meal unforgettable.

Side Dishes

For an authentic Mexican serving suggestion, think about side dishes that go well with your burrito. They should complement the rich flavors in your meal:

  • Mexican Bean Salad: Great with chicken burritos, it offers a refreshing crunch.
  • Black Beans and Rice: A favorite providing added protein and fiber.
  • Mexican Corn (Esquites): This pairs perfectly with tortilla wrap hacks, adding extra taste.
  • Guacamole and Chips: Loved by many, it goes well with any burrito.
  • Mexican Black Beans: Fantastic with breakfast burritos, but works with any kind.
  • Nachos: Goes with a pulled pork burrito bowl, giving a nice crunch.

authentic Mexican serving suggestions

Beverage Pairings

Choosing the right drink can balance the meal’s zesty and spicy flavors. Here are some thoughtful Mexican beverage suggestions:

  • Margaritas: A classic drink with lime and tequila to match the spices.
  • Horchata: A creamy, cinnamon drink that sweetens savory burritos.
  • Jarritos: Enjoy these Mexican sodas in flavors like tamarind and grapefruit. They cleanse the palate.
Side Dish Best Paired With
Mexican Bean Salad Chicken Burrito
Black Beans and Rice Chicken Burrito
Mexican Corn (Esquites) Tortilla Wrap Hack Luchito Style
Guacamole and Chips Any Burrito Recipe
Mexican Black Beans Breakfast Burrito
Nachos Pulled Pork Burrito Bowl

These tips aim to enhance your authentic Mexican chicken burrito. They promise a delicious and complete dining experience.

Storing and Reheating Chicken Burritos

Keeping chicken burritos tasty means using the right storage and reheating tricks. With the proper care, your meal will stay as delicious as the day you made it.

Best Practices for Storage

It’s best to wrap each chicken burrito in paper and then foil. This keeps everything from drying out or getting too soft. After wrapping, put them in airtight containers or bags before refrigerating. This keeps the chicken burritos fresh for longer.

Reheating Tips

For heating up your burritos, using the oven works well. It keeps the flavor and texture intact. Just preheat the oven to 350°F and warm them for 15 minutes if they’re already thawed, or 20-30 minutes if frozen. Another good option is an air fryer at 400°F for 5 to 8 minutes. This makes the outside crisply and the inside warm, keeping everything tasty. Avoid the microwave as it can make the tortilla chewy.

For helpful tips on freezing and reheating burritos, we’ve prepared an image:

  1. Wrap in Paper: First, wrap your burrito in a paper towel.
  2. Cover with Foil: Then, wrap it in foil to keep the heat in.
  3. Store in Containers: Finally, store them in airtight containers or bags.
  4. Oven Reheat: To reheat, use a 350°F oven for 15 minutes (if thawed) or 20-30 minutes (if not).
  5. Air Fryer Reheat: An air fryer at 400°F for 5 to 8 minutes gives a nice, crispy result.

Follow these tips for great burrito meals. With a little care, you can keep your meals tasty and enjoyable at all times. Enjoy every bite!

Healthy Chicken Burrito Alternatives

Want a healthier chicken burrito? Try using whole grain tortillas and low-fat cheese. These changes make your meal better for you without losing taste. Below, we’ll show how to do these swaps easily.

Using Whole Grain Tortillas

Changing to whole grain tortillas boosts your meal’s fiber. Each burrito now gives you 7.6 grams of fiber. This helps your body digest better and keeps you full longer. So, your chicken burrito becomes an even more satisfying choice.

Low-Fat Cheese Options

Using low-fat cheese in your burritos cuts calories. Your meal remains creamy and tasty. Making these chicken burritos takes only 30 minutes. This includes just 15 minutes to prepare.

With these swaps, your meal becomes even better for you. You’ll manage your diet well. Enjoy a healthy chicken burrito that’s good for you, keeps the flavor, and satisfies your hunger.

Customizing Your Chicken Burrito Recipe

The chicken burrito recipe allows for many tweaks to suit your taste. Whether you want a vegan option or a unique take on a chicken burrito, there’s a lot to try. We’ll look at different ways to fill your burrito, perfect for various diets.

Alternative Proteins

If you want to mix things up, try swapping chicken for other meats. Beef and pork can change the flavor in exciting ways. Or, choose plant-based options like black beans or lentils if you’re vegetarian.

Vegetarian Alternatives

Making a veggie burrito is easy and tasty. Add in grilled veggies, tofu, or tempeh instead of chicken. Toss in sautéed peppers and fresh cilantro for extra flavor and crunch. It will be as delicious as the meat versions.

Nutrient Amount per Serving Daily Value (%)
Calories 413 kcal
Carbohydrates 38 g
Protein 26 g
Fat 17 g
Saturated Fat 7 g
Cholesterol 66 mg
Sodium 713 mg
Potassium 407 mg
Fiber 4 g
Sugar 5 g
Vitamin A 21%
Vitamin C 27%
Calcium 27%
Iron 11%

How to Make Your Chicken Burrito Spicier

Make your spicy chicken burrito hotter by adding items that boost the heat and flavor. This is perfect for those who love spicy food. It also makes your burrito more interesting to eat.

Start by choosing a hot salsa. Look for ones with jalapeños, habaneros, or even ghost peppers to make it spicy. Adding serrano peppers can also make a big difference. They bring a unique spiciness, kicking your burrito up a notch.

Then, update your burrito spice mix. More cayenne pepper or adding ground chipotle can make it much hotter. For a more elaborate taste, try Mexican chili powder or smoked paprika. These add not only heat but also richness.

If you’re wondering how to turn up your burrito’s heat, check this table:

Ingredient Heat Level Flavor Profile
Jalapeños Medium Bright and Fresh
Habaneros High Fruity with Intense Heat
Ghost Peppers Extreme Smoky and Potent
Chipotle Powder Medium Smoky with a Mild Sweetness

Lastly, add a drizzle of hot honey for a unique flavor. It mixes sweet and spicy, making the burrito special. Making your spicy chicken burrito just right for your taste is key. It guarantees a meal that’s both enjoyable and memorable.

Chicken Burrito Recipe

Making a delicious chicken burrito is about the right mixture of ingredients and flavors. This recipe has a high score, 4.98 out of 5, from a lot of people. It makes 5 yummy and healthy chicken burritos per batch.

Ingredients:

  • 600g (1.2 lb) chicken breast
  • 400g (14oz) refried beans
  • 400g (14oz) canned corn
  • 1.5 cups (150g) shredded cheese
  • Various spices for seasoning

Cooking Instructions:

  1. First, season the chicken and cut it into cubes.
  2. Cook it well for about 15 minutes until golden.
  3. Gather the refried beans, corn, and cheese for filling.
  4. Put chicken, beans, corn, and cheese on a tortilla to make the burritos.
  5. Roll them up and if you like, make the outside crispy in a hot pan.

If you want to freeze the burritos, wrap them in paper and foil. Then, put them in a container and freeze. Reheat for 15 minutes in the oven after they thaw, or 40 minutes straight from the freezer. The avocado sauce and Queso are the perfect dips.

Nutritional Information Per Burrito Amount
Calories 700cal
Carbohydrates 72g
Protein 49g
Fat 23g
Saturated Fat 9g
Cholesterol 109mg
Sodium 2051mg
Potassium 1209mg
Fiber 10g
Sugar 8g
Vitamin A 2036IU
Vitamin C 101mg
Calcium 470mg
Iron 9mg

This easy chicken burrito recipe only takes 30 minutes to prepare and cook. It’s fast and full of great flavors. Use refried beans to keep the burritos moist and together.

To make them even crispier, reheat in an air fryer at 375 degrees F for 4-6 minutes. Remember to flip them halfway through.

Conclusion

In short, making a chicken burrito at home is about using good ingredients and careful steps. These burritos are a hit in the U.S for how many people love them. They are a healthy choice too. By adding brown rice, you get more fiber and complex carbs. This boosts the nutrients of the meal, which is usually between 400 to 800 calories.

A single chicken burrito has around 40-50 grams of protein, making it filling. However, watch out for the sodium levels, which can be high. To make it tasty, add caramelized onions, garlic, and red peppers. Season the chicken with paprika, cumin, and more for great flavor.

To cook the chicken perfectly, aim for it to be 75°C (167°F). Use a thick pan and turn it once. When you assemble the burrito, add cooked rice, peppers, sweetcorn, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. This layering makes it delicious.

You can keep fresh burritos in the fridge for four days. But, frozen ones will last up to three months. It’s easy to reheat them in the microwave or oven. This shows how easy it is to make a tasty and good-for-you meal at home. Start with quality ingredients and your burrito will be a hit. Happy cooking!

FAQ

What are the essential ingredients for an easy chicken burrito recipe?

The key ingredients you’ll need are boneless, skinless chicken breasts, white rice, beans, and spices. You should have onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, and more for flavor.

How can I make my chicken burrito more authentic Mexican?

For a true Mexican taste, add traditional spices, cilantro lime rice, and homemade salsa. Use green chilies, fresh cilantro, and lime for a real Mexican flavor.

What are some optional add-ins for a homemade chicken burrito?

You can add diced green chilies, cilantro, lime juice, and more. Vegetables like tomatoes and avocados, along with cheeses, are great options.

How do I properly season the chicken for a flavorful chicken burrito?

Season your chicken well with spices and marinate for extra taste. Use onion powder, garlic powder, cumin, along with salt, pepper, and chili powder.

What are the different methods to cook chicken for burritos?

You can prepare the chicken in various ways. You might sauté it on the stove, bake it in the oven, or use an Instant Pot for quick cooking.

How do I make cilantro lime rice for a chicken burrito?

Start by sautéing garlic with white rice, then cook it in chicken broth. Add fresh cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice for the cilantro lime rice.

Which beans are best for adding extra protein to chicken burritos?

For protein and a good texture, choose pinto or black beans. They’re a great addition to your burrito.

Can I customize my salsa for the chicken burrito?

Absolutely, you can make your salsa unique. Change the heat with chili peppers or add fruits. Herbs can also give a special touch to the salsa.

What are some good toppings for a chicken burrito?

Top your burrito with cheeses, like Colby Jack, or fresh veggies. Avocados, tomatoes, and jalapenos are excellent choices.

How can I ensure a proper assembly of the chicken burrito?

Layer the tortilla with chicken, rice, beans, and toppings. Make sure to roll it tightly for the best experience.

What are some serving suggestions for an authentic Mexican chicken burrito meal?

Serve your burrito with classic Mexican sides. Think about adding Mexican street corn or refried beans. Margaritas or horchata go well with it.

What is the best way to store and reheat chicken burritos?

To keep them fresh, wrap burritos individually and store in the fridge tightly. Reheat using an oven or skillet to keep the tortilla crisp and fillings warm.

How can I make a healthy chicken burrito?

To make it healthy, use whole grain tortillas and low-fat cheeses. This reduces calories but keeps the burrito delicious.

What are some alternative proteins for customizing chicken burritos?

You can switch chicken for beef, pork, or plant-based options. Grilled vegetables or tofu work well for vegetarians.

How can I make my chicken burrito spicier?

For more heat, use spicier salsa, extra chili powders, or fresh jalapenos. These add a hotter flavor to your burrito.