Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Irresistible Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe for Dinner Joy

Tucking into these mouthwatering smothered baked chicken burritos will transport you straight to comfort food heaven.

Creamy cheese and tender chicken create a magical blend inside warm tortillas.

Packed with vibrant ingredients, each bite promises a flavor explosion that feels like a culinary hug.

Mexican-inspired spices dance across your palate, making dinner feel special and exciting.

Soft tortillas cradle a hearty filling that satisfies deep hunger pangs.

Home cooks can easily master this restaurant-quality dish without complicated techniques.

You will devour every single delicious morsel and ask for seconds.

Baked Chicken Burritos For The Win

Baked Chicken Burritos For The Win
  • Simplify Meal Prep: Combine protein, rice, and beans in one easy filling, cutting down cooking steps and minimizing kitchen cleanup.
  • Customize Your Comfort: Swap ingredients like chicken for beef or beans, making this recipe adaptable to personal taste preferences and dietary needs.
  • Family-Friendly Feast: Packed with familiar flavors and hearty ingredients, these burritos appeal to both kids and adults, creating a crowd-pleasing meal everyone will enjoy.
  • Bake and Relax: Transform basic ingredients into a delicious dinner with minimal hands-on cooking, allowing you to prepare the dish quickly and spend more time with family.

Ingredient Rundown For Chicken Burritos

Main Ingredients:
  • Shredded Chicken: The primary protein that provides a tender and flavorful base for the burritos.
  • Tortillas: Soft flour wraps that hold the delicious filling and create the classic burrito shape.
  • Black Beans: A hearty and nutritious ingredient that adds texture and plant-based protein to the filling.
  • Rice: A classic burrito component that provides substance and helps bind the filling together.
Seasoning Ingredients:
  • Cumin, Chili Powder: Spices that add warmth and depth of flavor to the chicken mixture.
  • Salt, Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance the overall taste of the dish.
Sauce and Topping Ingredients:
  • Enchilada Sauce, Sour Cream: A creamy and tangy sauce that covers the burritos and adds richness.
  • Shredded Cheese: Melts beautifully to create a golden, gooey topping for the burritos.
  • Cilantro: A fresh herb that provides a bright, optional garnish for added flavor.

Easy Instructions For Smothered Chicken Burritos

Easy Instructions For Smothered Chicken Burritos

Step 1: Fire Up The Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375F (190C) and get ready for some serious flavor.

Step 2: Create The Flavor Bomb Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cooked rice
  • Black beans
  • Cumin
  • Chili powder
  • Half of the shredded cheese

Sprinkle in salt and pepper to make the mixture pop with taste.

Step 3: Wrap Like A Pro

Spread the delicious mixture right in the center of each tortilla.

Fold the sides like a burrito master, rolling tightly to seal in all the goodness.

Step 4: Arrange In Baking Dish

Place the wrapped burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish, making sure they’re snug and ready for their cheesy adventure.

Step 5: Craft The Magical Sauce

Whisk together enchilada sauce and sour cream until silky smooth.

This sauce will be the secret weapon of flavor.

Step 6: Dress And Decorate

Pour the creamy sauce over the burritos, then shower the remaining cheese on top for maximum deliciousness.

Step 7: Bake To Perfection

Slide the dish into the oven and let it bake for 20-25 minutes.

You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese becomes melted and irresistibly bubbly.

Step 8: Finish And Serve

Sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro on top if you’re feeling fancy.

Serve these bad boys warm and watch everyone’s eyes light up.

Chicken Burrito Tips For Extra Flavor

  • Add a splash of lime juice to the chicken mixture for a zesty, bright taste that elevates the entire dish.
  • Lightly toast the tortillas on a skillet before filling to create a barrier that stops excess moisture from making them mushy.
  • Assemble burritos ahead of time and freeze unbaked for a quick weeknight dinner option that's ready in minutes.
  • Adjust cumin and chili powder quantities to match your heat preference, ensuring the perfect personalized flavor profile.
  • Swap regular cheese with dairy-free alternatives and use coconut-based sour cream to make the recipe vegan-friendly.

Burrito Variations: More Ways To Enjoy

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with crumbled tofu, black beans, or roasted jackfruit for a plant-based version that maintains the burrito's hearty texture.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free for individuals with wheat sensitivities.
  • Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced jalapeños, use pepper jack cheese, and incorporate chipotle powder to create a more intense, fiery flavor profile for heat lovers.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Swap tortillas with large lettuce leaves and replace rice with cauliflower rice to reduce carbohydrate content while keeping the delicious filling intact.

Burrito Presentation For Best Results

  • Flavor Explosion Plating: Serve these saucy burritos on a vibrant plate with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro, creating a colorful and appetizing presentation that makes mouths water instantly.
  • Zesty Side Kick: Pair with a tangy Mexican-style coleslaw or crisp green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to balance the rich, cheesy burritos and add refreshing crunch.
  • Dip and Dive: Offer additional enchilada sauce and cool sour cream on the side for guests to customize their burrito experience, allowing everyone to adjust the flavor intensity.
  • Weekend Fiesta Finish: Top with diced avocado, pico de gallo, or quick pickled jalapeños to elevate the dish and bring extra layers of texture and bright, fresh flavors.

Storing Burritos For Later Snacking

  • Store leftover burritos in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain freshness and prevent them from drying out.
  • Place cooled burritos in freezer-safe bags or containers. They'll keep well for 2-3 months. Label with the date to track storage time.
  • Unwrap frozen or refrigerated burritos, place on a baking sheet, and warm at 350F for 15-20 minutes. Cover with foil to prevent excessive drying.
  • Defrost frozen burritos first, then heat on a microwave-safe plate for 2-3 minutes. Add a damp paper towel to retain moisture and prevent rubbery texture.

FAQs

  • Can I use other types of meat instead of chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken with ground beef, shredded pork, or even vegetarian alternatives like tofu or additional beans.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has mild spices like cumin and chili powder. You can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or including hot sauce for extra kick.

  • Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Absolutely! Prepare the burritos, cover with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add an extra 5-10 minutes to the baking time.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these burritos?

No special equipment is needed. A standard baking dish, mixing bowls, and an oven are all you’ll need to create these delicious burritos.

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Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe


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4.8 from 8 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Delectable Mexican Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos promise a flavor-packed culinary journey through authentic southwestern comfort. Cheesy, hearty fillings wrapped in warm tortillas and baked to golden perfection will satisfy your craving for home-style Mexican cuisine.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup black beans (drained and rinsed)

Cheese and Sauce:

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
  • 1 cup enchilada sauce
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Spices and Herbs:

  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine shredded chicken, rice, black beans, cumin, chili powder, and half the cheese in a mixing bowl, seasoning with salt and pepper to create a flavorful filling.
  2. Lay out tortillas and distribute the prepared mixture evenly across the center of each, leaving enough space to fold and roll.
  3. Carefully fold the sides of each tortilla inward, then roll tightly to form compact burritos, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
  4. Arrange the rolled burritos seam-side down in a lightly greased baking dish, positioning them close together for stability.
  5. Whisk enchilada sauce and sour cream in a separate bowl until thoroughly blended and smooth.
  6. Drizzle the creamy sauce generously over the assembled burritos, covering them completely.
  7. Sprinkle the remaining cheese over the sauced burritos, creating an even layer for melting.
  8. Transfer the baking dish to a preheated 375°F (190°C) oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns golden and bubbling.
  9. Remove from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro for a vibrant finishing touch.
  10. Serve immediately while hot and the cheese is still melted.

Notes

  • Shred chicken in advance and store in the refrigerator to save time during burrito assembly.
  • Swap chicken with ground beef, turkey, or plant-based alternatives for dietary preferences.
  • Adjust cumin and chili powder quantities to match personal heat tolerance without compromising flavor balance.
  • Use corn tortillas and ensure enchilada sauce is gluten-free for celiac-friendly preparation.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 470 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 720 mg
  • Fat: 18 g
  • Saturated Fat: 8 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.5 g
  • Carbohydrates: 38 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 32 g
  • Cholesterol: 75 mg
Lucas Bennett

Lucas Bennett

Founder & Recipe Developer

Expertise

  • Developing single-serving recipes with a rustic, seasonal twist.
  • Crafting engaging food insights that connect with readers.
  • Developing content that educates readers on healthy baking alternatives.
  • Integrating local ingredients into accessible home cooking.​

Education

Blue Ridge Community College – Certificate in Culinary Arts
Focused on seasonal cooking, sustainable kitchen practices, and farm-to-table techniques.

Appalachian State University – B.A. in English
Built critical thinking and analysis through diverse texts. Guided by faculty, it prepares graduates for publishing and more.


Growing up in the rolling hills of North Carolina, Lucas learned early that some of life’s best memories start around a kitchen table. After studying English at Appalachian State University and honing his culinary skills at Blue Ridge Community College, he dreamed of blending storytelling with rustic, seasonal cooking, and The Scrumptious Pumpkin was born.
Lucas focuses on easy, single-serving recipes that turn fresh, local ingredients into something special. His style is simple, heartfelt, and rooted in the beauty of the seasons. When he’s not testing a new dish, you’ll probably find him hiking in the Blue Ridge Mountains, browsing farmers’ markets, or scribbling food stories in a notebook.

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