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Chicken Burrito: A Flavor-Packed Mexican Classic

Juicy chicken, bold Mexican spices, tender rice, and melty cheese all come together in this irresistible chicken burrito. A comforting and flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tsp onion powder
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 2 tsp cumin powder
  • 2 tsp paprika
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
  • 3/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)

Chicken Filling

  • 600g (1.2 lbs) chicken breast, sliced in half horizontally
  • 2 tbsp olive oil, divided
  • 1/2 onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 red bell pepper, diced
  • 400g (14 oz) refried beans
  • 1/4 cup water

Rice Options

  • 2.5 cups plain cooked white rice or Mexican Red Rice

Additional Fillings

  • 400g (14 oz) canned or thawed corn
  • 1.5 cups (150g) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Sauces for Serving

  • Avocado sauce
  • Sour cream
  • Salsa

Optional

  • 5 large flour tortillas (1012 inches)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Burrito Seasoning:
    • Mix all the seasoning ingredients (onion powder, oregano, salt, cumin, paprika, black pepper, and cayenne pepper) in a small bowl.
  2. Season the Chicken:
    • Drizzle 1 tbsp olive oil over the chicken slices.
    • Sprinkle the seasoning mix evenly over the chicken and toss to coat.
  3. Cook the Chicken:
    • Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over high heat.
    • Add the chicken and cook for 2 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for 1.5 minutes on the other side.
    • Remove the chicken from the skillet, let it rest for 2 minutes, then chop into bite-sized pieces.
  4. Sauté the Vegetables:
    • In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic for 1 minute until fragrant.
    • Add the red bell pepper and cook for 2 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
  5. Combine the Filling:
    • Add the chopped chicken, refried beans, and water to the skillet.
    • Stir everything together and cook for 2 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
    • Let it cool for 5 minutes.
  6. Warm the Tortillas:
    • Gently warm the tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet to make them pliable.
  7. Assemble the Burritos:
    • Lay a tortilla flat on your work surface.
    • Spread a layer of rice on the lower third of the tortilla.
    • Add the chicken filling, corn, shredded cheese, and a sprinkle of cilantro.
    • Fold the sides inward, then roll tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
  8. Toast or Bake the Burritos:
    • For a crispy finish, pan-fry the burritos over medium-high heat for 2 minutes on each side.
    • Alternatively, wrap the burritos in foil and bake at 180°C/350°F for 10 minutes.
  9. Serve with Sauces:
    • Serve the burritos with avocado sauce, sour cream, or salsa on the side.

Notes

  • Customize Spice Level: Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper for less heat, or add hot sauce for extra spice.
  • Freezer-Friendly: Wrap assembled burritos in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat at 180°C/350°F for 20-25 minutes.
  • Vegetarian Option: Replace chicken with black beans, chickpeas, or sautéed mushrooms.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free tortillas and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.