easy chicken burrito recipe
The Best easy chicken burrito recipe
Oh, this easy chicken burrito recipe is one of those simple, no-fuss meals that just makes everything better. I’ve been making it for years, and honestly, it’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl—warm, satisfying, and always a hit with my kids. There’s something about wrapping up tender chicken, crispy rice, and all the fixings in a tortilla that makes it feel like a little celebration, even when we’re just having dinner at home. My family loves it because it’s easy to customize—you can swap in whatever veggies or proteins you’ve got on hand, and the kids always dig the texture of the rice and the slight smoky flavor from the tortillas. It’s not just a meal; it’s a go-to for busy weeknights when I don’t have time to stress over complicated recipes, but it still feels special.
I love this recipe because it’s packed with good stuff—lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the veggies, and complex carbs from the rice and tortillas. It’s got that balance that keeps everyone full and happy without feeling like a heavy, greasy meal. Plus, it’s perfect for all kinds of occasions. Need a quick dinner for the family? Roll it up and serve it. Got company coming over? Make a big batch and let everyone assemble their own. It’s also great for meal prep—just cook the chicken and rice ahead of time, store it in containers, and grab everything when you’re ready to eat. My kids especially love it because it’s something they can help with, whether it’s wrapping their own or picking their favorite toppings. And honestly? It’s one of those recipes that feels like a win every time—simple, delicious, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Easy Chicken Burritos
A simple and delicious recipe for homemade chicken burritos packed with flavor and easy to customize. Perfect for a quick meal or meal prep!
🥘Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 cup cooked rice
- ½ cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- ¼ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- ¼ cup diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped green onions
- 1 tbsp sour cream (optional)
- 1 tsp lime juice
- 8 large flour tortillas
- 1 tbsp butter or oil (for wrapping)
- ½ cup salsa
- 1 tbsp sour cream
- ½ tsp garlic powder
👨🍳Directions
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1 Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Season chicken with garlic powder, paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, then cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked. Remove chicken, let it rest, then shred or chop.
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2 In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, chopped green onions, and lime juice. Mix well.
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3 In a small bowl, mix salsa, sour cream, and garlic powder for the sauce.
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4 Heat tortillas according to package instructions (either in a dry skillet over medium heat for 30-60 seconds per side or microwave for 20-30 seconds). Warm butter or oil in a small pan for wrapping.
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5 Divide the chicken filling among the tortillas. Drizzle with sauce and fold tortillas in half. Wrap each burrito in the warmed butter/oil to keep it sealed.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Skillet
- Oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Tortilla warmer or microwave
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Easy Chicken Burritos Works
This easy chicken burrito recipe is a lifesaver for anyone who needs a quick, satisfying meal without the fuss—whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a family gathering where you want something hearty but simple. It’s the kind of dish that comes together fast, lets everyone customize their own, and feels like a little comfort food no matter the occasion. Plus, it’s so versatile you can adjust the seasonings or toppings to suit whatever’s calling your name, making it a reliable go-to for both weekdays and special celebrations.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Burritos
What is the easiest way to make a chicken burrito without using a rice cooker?
You can use a stovetop method by cooking the rice in a pot with water, butter, salt, and a splash of broth. Bring the water to a boil, reduce heat, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally, then fluff with a fork and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes before assembling.
Can I use pre-cooked rice instead of fresh-cooked rice for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rice (like microwaveable white rice or leftover rice) saves time. Just heat it in a microwave-safe bowl with a splash of water or broth for 2-3 minutes until fluffy. Drain any excess liquid before assembling.
What type of chicken works best for this recipe, and can I substitute it?
Fresh, boneless chicken breasts or thighs work well, but you can also use rotisserie chicken (shredded), canned chicken (drained), or even leftover cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s fully cooked and seasoned before adding to the burrito.
How do I keep the chicken from getting dry in the burrito?
To prevent dryness, pat the chicken dry with a paper towel before cooking, season generously with salt and pepper, and add a little oil or butter while cooking. For extra moisture, mix in a little broth or chicken broth while assembling. Also, avoid overcooking the chicken—it should be tender but not rubbery.
What can I substitute for the tortilla if I don’t have a large flour tortilla?
If you don’t have large flour tortillas, you can use: – A large corn tortilla (cut into two if needed) – A whole wheat or low-carb tortilla (check size—some are extra-large) – A wrap or large flatbread (like a naan or pita, cut in half) – A small burrito-style tortilla (fill with extra filling and roll tightly)
