There’s an unmistakable comfort that comes from biting into a soft, warm burrito—especially when it’s filled with flavorful, cheesy goodness. I first discovered this simple yet satisfying recipe for Baked Chicken Burritos one hectic weeknight when I desperately needed a quick solution to a dinner dilemma. The aroma of seasoned chicken melded with sautéed vegetables wafted through my kitchen, luring everyone to the table. Not only are these burritos incredibly easy to make, but they also double as a crowd-pleaser for potlucks or meal prep for the week ahead.
What I love most about this dish is its versatility! You can customize the filling to suit your tastes or dietary needs, making it perfect for families or anyone looking to adapt their meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy kick or a milder flavor, these burritos offer an inviting warmth filled with heartfelt home-cooked comfort. Join me as we whip up this delightful and filling recipe that is bound to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why are Baked Chicken Burritos a must-try?
Quick and Easy: Whipping up these burritos takes minimal time and effort, making them perfect for busy weeknights.
Family-Friendly: Loaded with flavors and textures, they’re sure to please even the pickiest eaters in your household.
Customizable: Tailor the filling to your family’s preferences—try different proteins or vegetables for endless variations!
Make-Ahead Marvel: Great for meal prep, you can assemble these burritos ahead of time for quick meals throughout the week.
Comfort in Every Bite: Enjoy that warm, cheesy goodness that feels like a cozy hug, perfect for gathering around the table.
Try adding a side of guacamole for a complete meal and a touch of freshness!
Baked Chicken Burrito Ingredients
• Gather everything you need to make these delicious Baked Chicken Burritos!
For the Filling
- Butter – Adds richness and helps sauté vegetables. You can use olive oil for a lighter option.
- Onion – Provides a savory base flavor. Yellow or white onions work best for this recipe.
- Green Pepper – Adds sweetness and crunch. Substitute with red or yellow bell pepper for a different flavor.
- All-Purpose Flour – Thickens the burrito mixture. Cornstarch can be used as a gluten-free alternative.
- Chicken Broth – Keeps the mixture moist. Opt for low-sodium broth if you’re watching your salt intake.
- Diced Tomatoes with Green Chiles (canned) – Contributes flavor and moisture. Select a low-sodium variety to cut back on salt.
- Ground Cumin – Provides warm earthiness; essential for that classic flavor. There’s no direct substitute, but chili powder can enhance it.
- Chili Powder – Adds mild spice. Adjust the amount to suit your taste buds.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances overall flavor beautifully. Fresh garlic can be a nice touch—about 1-2 cloves will do.
- Salt – Enhances flavor overall. You can reduce or omit this for a low-sodium diet.
- Jalapeño Pepper (optional) – For additional heat. You can skip this or use a milder pepper if preferred.
- Chili with Beans (canned) – Adds protein and thickness to the filling. Black beans or kidney beans are great substitutes.
- Cream Cheese – Provides creaminess and binds the filling nicely. Consider low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option.
- Cooked Chicken – The main source of protein; shredded rotisserie chicken saves time here.
For the Tortilla and Topping
- Flour Tortillas (6 inches) – Serves as the wrap for your filling. Consider using whole wheat or corn tortillas as healthier alternatives.
- Shredded Colby-Monterey Jack Cheese – Adds flavor and meltiness on top; swap it for cheddar or pepper jack for a different twist.
- Salsa (optional for serving) – Adds a refreshing touch; you can use store-bought or make your own for that fresh flavor.
These Baked Chicken Burritos are perfect for a family dinner or potluck—so enjoyable and easy to customize!
How to Make Baked Chicken Burritos
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Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the burritos.
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Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, and sauté chopped onions and green peppers until they are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in all-purpose flour until fully combined. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously, bringing the mixture to a boil for about 2 minutes to thicken.
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Reduce the heat and mix in the canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, all spices, and optional jalapeño. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to bring those flavors together.
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Combine the chili with beans and cream cheese into the mixture until melted, then fold in the shredded chicken, making sure everything is well blended.
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Spoon ½ cup of this flavorful filling onto each warmed tortilla, topping with ¼ cup of shredded cheese before folding them up tightly.
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Arrange the rolled burritos seam-side down in greased 13×9 inch baking dishes, packing them in snugly for even baking.
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Bake covered with foil for 35-40 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve with salsa if you’d like a fresh twist!
Optional: Top with fresh cilantro for added flavor!
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Chicken Burritos are a fantastic option for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can easily assemble the burritos up to 24 hours in advance—simply fill and roll them, then place them in a greased baking dish. Cover tightly with foil and refrigerate until you’re ready to cook. If you want to prepare them for later, they can be wrapped individually and frozen for up to 3 months; just bake directly from frozen, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. To maintain their delicious quality, ensure the burritos are tightly wrapped to prevent freezer burn. When ready to enjoy, simply preheat your oven and bake until heated through—it’s that easy!
Storage Tips for Baked Chicken Burritos
Fridge: Keep baked chicken burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave for the best results.
Freezer: Wrap the assembled burritos tightly in plastic wrap and foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. Bake them directly from frozen, adding about 10-15 minutes to the cooking time.
Reheating: To reheat, place burritos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave individual burritos on a microwave-safe plate for 1-2 minutes, checking to avoid overcooking.
Make-Ahead: Consider preparing your baked chicken burritos in advance and storing them for future meals. They make for a quick and satisfying dinner solution!
Expert Tips for Baked Chicken Burritos
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Taste Before Filling: Always sample the chicken mixture before filling your tortillas. This way, you can adjust spices to achieve the perfect flavor for your baked chicken burritos.
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Warm Tortillas First: Ensure your tortillas are warm before filling. This prevents them from tearing or cracking as you roll them up.
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Use Shredded Chicken: For even distribution of the protein, shred your cooked chicken into small pieces. This helps every bite be packed with delicious chicken filling.
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Assembly Made Easy: If you’re prepping ahead of time, assemble the burritos but don’t bake until you’re ready to eat. You can refrigerate them for up to 3-4 days or freeze for later.
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Experiment with Fillings: Don’t hesitate to customize the filling! Trying different vegetables or proteins can lead to new favorite variations of these baked chicken burritos.
What to Serve with Baked Chicken Burritos?
There’s nothing quite like a cozy, satisfying meal that brings everyone together around the table, and these burritos are just the beginning.
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Guacamole: Creamy and rich, it adds a fresh twist that complements the spices in the burritos, bringing an irresistible zing to each bite.
Pairing guacamole with your burritos not only enhances the flavor but also provides a cooling contrast to the warmth of the spices. -
Mexican Street Corn Salad: Bright and zesty, this salad balances the savory burritos with a burst of sweetness and crunch that everyone will love.
With its blend of corn, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs, it offers a vibrant side that brightens up your meal experience. -
Black Bean and Rice: A flavorful staple, it adds heartiness and a delightful texture that complements the burritos perfectly.
This combination creates a satisfying plate filled with plant-based goodness that nourishes the body and soul. -
Tortilla Chips with Salsa: Crispy chips and tangy salsa make for a fun, shareable appetizer that adds crunch before diving into the burritos.
The brightness of the salsa pairs wonderfully with the cheesy filling, creating a harmonious pre-meal treat. -
Pico de Gallo: Fresh, refreshing, and vibrant, this classic salsa offers a burst of flavor and a lovely contrast to the baked burritos.
Topped with cilantro and lime, it brings a zesty freshness that everyone will appreciate. -
Mixed Green Salad: A simple side can round out the meal nicely, offering freshness and lightness to balance the richness of the burritos.
Tossed with a citrus vinaigrette, it invigorates the palate with every bite. -
Margaritas: Looking to sip something delightful? A classic margarita adds a festive touch that pairs beautifully with Mexican flavors.
This refreshing cocktail enhances the fun, making your meal feel like a special occasion.
Serving these alongside your Baked Chicken Burritos creates a meal that is sure to warm the heart and satisfy the appetite!
Baked Chicken Burritos Variations
Explore the endless possibilities to add your personal touch to these delightful burritos!
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Ground Turkey: Swap chicken for cooked ground turkey for a leaner filling that still satisfies.
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Vegetarian Style: Replace chicken with a hearty mix of black beans, corn, and sautéed vegetables for a filling meatless option.
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Spicy Twist: Use pepper jack cheese instead of Colby-Monterey Jack and add extra jalapeños for a fiery kick.
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Sour Cream Addition: Mix in sour cream with the filling for additional creaminess and tang that elevates the flavor profile. It adds a nice richness!
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Whole Wheat Option: Try using whole wheat or spinach tortillas instead of flour for a healthier twist that adds more fiber.
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Extra Crunch: Fold in some chopped fresh bell peppers or diced tomatoes for added texture in each bite.
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Sweet Surprise: Caramelized onions or sweet corn can be added to balance the spices, enhancing the burrito’s sweetness.
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Fajita Style: Incorporate fajita seasonings and grill your veggies for a smoky flavor that transports you to Tex-Mex heaven.
Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for baked chicken burritos?
I recommend using shredded rotisserie chicken for its convenience and rich flavor. You can also use cooked chicken breast or thighs, but be sure to shred it into small pieces for even distribution in your burritos.
How should I store leftover baked chicken burritos?
Store leftover baked chicken burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat them in the oven or microwave for the best flavor and texture; using the oven will keep the tortillas nice and crispy.
Can baked chicken burritos be frozen?
Absolutely! You can wrap assembled, unbaked chicken burritos tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, bake them directly from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cooking time at 350°F (175°C).
What should I do if my burritos tear while rolling?
To prevent tearing, make sure your tortillas are warmed before filling. If they do tear, don’t worry! You can always patch them up by using a bit of extra filling to hold the torn edge together or simply wrap them in foil for baking.
Are these burritos suitable for gluten-free diets?
You can easily make these baked chicken burritos gluten-free by using corn tortillas instead of flour ones. Additionally, substitute all-purpose flour in the filling with cornstarch as a thickening agent. Always check your canned ingredients for hidden gluten.
Can I customize the filling to accommodate dietary restrictions?
The more the merrier! You can tailor these baked chicken burritos to fit various dietary needs by swapping in different proteins like ground turkey or beans, using low-fat cream cheese for a lighter option, and adding or omitting veggies based on preferences. Enjoy experimenting to find your family’s favorite combination!
Delicious Baked Chicken Burritos for Family Weeknight Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) to ensure it's hot and ready for baking the burritos.
- Melt butter in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat, and sauté chopped onions and green peppers until they are tender and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in all-purpose flour until fully combined. Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously, bringing the mixture to a boil for about 2 minutes to thicken.
- Reduce the heat and mix in the canned diced tomatoes with green chiles, all spices, and optional jalapeño. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to bring those flavors together.
- Combine the chili with beans and cream cheese into the mixture until melted, then fold in the shredded chicken, making sure everything is well blended.
- Spoon ½ cup of this flavorful filling onto each warmed tortilla, topping with ¼ cup of shredded cheese before folding them up tightly.
- Arrange the rolled burritos seam-side down in greased 13x9 inch baking dishes, packing them in snugly for even baking.
- Bake covered with foil for 35-40 minutes until heated through and the flavors meld together beautifully. Serve with salsa if you'd like a fresh twist!