Go Back
ating

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.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 5 burritos
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 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
  • 600 g 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
  • 400 g 14 oz refried beans
  • 1/4 cup water
Rice Options
  • 2.5 cups plain cooked white rice or Mexican Red Rice
Additional Fillings
  • 400 g 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 10-12 inches

Method
 

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