chicken burrito recipe with rice

The Best chicken burrito recipe with rice

This chicken burrito recipe with rice is one of those meals that feels like a hug for your taste buds. I’ve been making it for years, and it’s always a hit—whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a make-ahead meal for a big family gathering. The combination of tender, seasoned chicken, fluffy rice, and just the right amount of warmth from the tortillas makes it satisfying without being heavy. My kids love it because it’s filling but not too much, and honestly, I can’t get enough of how simple it is to prepare yet how much flavor it packs. It’s that kind of recipe that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or hours in the kitchen, which is perfect for busy days when you still want something delicious.

What really stands out about this dish is how adaptable it is. You can swap in different proteins—like shrimp or black beans if you’re feeling lighter—or adjust the spices to match your taste. It’s also a great way to use up leftover rice or chicken, making it a practical choice for meal prep. And let’s not forget the health perks: lean protein from the chicken keeps things balanced, while the rice adds fiber and complex carbs for steady energy. My husband and I both appreciate how easy it is to customize portions—whether we’re feeding the whole family or just grabbing leftovers for lunch the next day. It’s that kind of meal that’s just as good cold as it is hot, so there’s no waste if you’re not hungry right away. Plus, the tortillas and salsa on the side let you control the sweetness and spice, so everyone can enjoy it their way. It’s a winner for everyday eating, but it also feels special enough to serve at a casual get-together.

Classic Chicken Burrito with Rice

4.8 from 1815 votes

A flavorful and satisfying burrito packed with seasoned chicken, steamed rice, and warm tortillas, topped with fresh vegetables and creamy sauce. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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Prep Time20 mins

Cook Time40 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time60 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 650 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 1.5 lbs boneless chicken thighs
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Rice

• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

For the Toppings

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• ½ cup diced tomatoes
• ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
• ¼ cup sour cream
• 1 tbsp salsa
• 1 avocado, sliced

For the Sauce

• ½ cup sour cream
• ¼ cup mayonnaise
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Cook the rice: Rinse the rice, then cook in chicken broth with butter, salt, and pepper until fluffy (~15 mins). Set aside.
2. 2 Season the chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat chicken thighs evenly.
3. 3 Cook the chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until golden and cooked through (~12-15 mins total). Remove from heat and let rest.
4. 4 Shred the chicken: Flake chicken into small pieces with forks.
5. 5 Prepare the sauce: Mix sour cream, mayo, lime juice, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
6. 6 Assemble the burritos: Warm tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side. Fill each tortilla with rice, chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, and sour cream. Fold and roll tightly.
7. 7 Top and serve: Drizzle each burrito with salsa and avocado slices. Serve immediately.

🔧Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot with lid
• Mixing bowls
• Knife and cutting board
• Serving platter

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 650 kcal🧈Total Fat: 35💛Saturated Fat: 12❤️Cholesterol: 100🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 70🥦Dietary Fiber: 8🍬Sugars: 8🥩Protein: 45

📝Notes

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This chicken burrito recipe with rice is always a go-to for me because it’s simple enough to make ahead and still taste great when reheated, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings. It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd without feeling too heavy, and the flavors blend well with whatever sides you serve—whether it’s a fresh salad, warm tortillas, or even just a simple green veggie. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover rice or chicken, so it’s practical for meal prep too. Families love it because it’s filling, customizable, and never feels like a chore to cook.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Burrito with Rice

1. What is the best type of rice to use in a classic chicken burrito with rice?

The best rice for a chicken burrito is long-grain white rice (like Basmati or jasmine) because it stays fluffy and absorbs flavors well. Short-grain rice can get too sticky, while brown rice may require extra cooking time. If you prefer a slightly nuttier taste, long-grain brown rice works too.

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2. How do I prevent the chicken from becoming dry when cooking it for the burrito?

To keep the chicken tender, cook it in a small amount of broth, water, or chicken stock instead of oil. Season it well with spices (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt) and cook it in batches if needed to avoid overcrowding the pan. For extra moisture, consider adding a splash of lime juice or a little soy sauce before serving.

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3. What are the best toppings to pair with this chicken burrito recipe?

Classic toppings include: – Fresh salsa (red or green) – Diced onions & cilantro – Shredded lettuce or cabbage – Sour cream or Greek yogurt – Avocado slices or guacamole – Hot sauce or lime wedges – Diced tomatoes For extra flavor, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese works well too.

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4. Can I make this chicken burrito recipe ahead of time and reheat it?

Yes! You can assemble the burritos (with rice, chicken, and fillings) and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap them in foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes, adding a splash of water or broth to keep them moist.

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5. What substitutions can I make if I don’t have chicken breast?

If you’re short on chicken breast, try: – Ground beef or turkey (seasoned with taco spices) – Shredded rotisserie chicken (for convenience) – Chicken thighs or drumsticks (for extra juiciness) – Black beans or lentils (for a vegetarian option, mix with cooked rice and spices) For extra flavor, add a dash of chili powder, oregano, or a pinch of cayenne.