Okay, friends, buckle up because I’m about to share something that’s basically a hug in burrito. Think enchiladas, but even easier and, dare I say, more flavorful. What are your favorite Smothered Chicken burritos? What is the perfect combination of comfort food and kitchen magic? Why do people think you slaved away for hours when, really, it’s ready faster than you can say “Ole! I promise you, if you’re looking for a recipe that’s both satisfying and simple, you’ve just got to go through the steps. Who doesn’t love a good burrito?
What is a smothered chicken burrito?
What are Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos? Can you make a burrito with chicken? *smothered* in a creamy, cheesy sauce. Think of it as the ultimate comfort food casserole, but portable! What are the best parts of Chicken Enchiladas? How can I streamline the process for those busy weeknights when I just need something warm and fuzzy? What is satisfying on the table? The name, well, it comes from the fact that these bad boys are *drenched* in deliciousness. No dry burritos here! It’s pure, unadulterated, delicious.
Why you’ll love this recipe?
Okay, where do I even start? This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos recipe is a lifesaver, and it’s become a staple in my family for so many reasons. First and foremost, the flavor is just incredible. We’re talking juicy, seasoned chicken combined with that creamy, cheesy sauce that just melts in Your mouth. The blend of spices gives it a wonderful warmth, but it’s not overly spicy – perfect for even the pickiest eaters. What I love most is how ridiculously easy it is to make. Seriously, we’re talking minimal prep time and mostly hands-off baking. It’s also surprisingly budget-friendly. Chicken is a relatively inexpensive protein, and you can customize the filling with whatever veggies you have on hand. Think leftover bell peppers, onions, even corn! And the best part? It’s incredibly versatile. Serve it with a side of rice and beans for a complete meal, or enjoy it as is for a satisfying lunch. I’ve even been known to pack leftovers for my husband’s lunch the next day (if there are any leftovers, that is!). Compared to traditional enchiladas, this baked burrito version is faster and easier, but delivers all the same flavor. Plus, who doesn’t love a good one-dish meal? It’s a win-win!
How do I make smothered baked chicken burritos?
Quick Overview
How do I make a smothered chicken burrito? How do you cook chicken? What are the best bur Next, you’ll roll everything up in tortillas and arrange them in a baking dish. What’s the best part about cheesy sauce? What is the best way to serve burritos? The beauty of this method is that it’s so forgiving. Don’t worry about perfectly rolled burritos – they’re going to be smothered in delicious sauce. What is the best way to combine all the flavors in a baking dish?
Ingredients
What is the recipe for chicken filling?
* 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless Chicken Breasts (I prefer organic, but use whatever you have) (* I like to eat raw chicken)
* 1 tbsp olive oil
* 1 onion, chopped
* 1 red bell pepper, chopped
* 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
* 1 (15 oz) can corn, drained
* 1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade, see my tips below!)
* 1/2 cup salsa (use your favorite heat level!)
* 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional, but I highly recommend it!)
What is the recipe for smothering sauce?
* 4 tbsp butter
* 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
* 3 cups chicken broth
* 1 cup Sour Cream (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)*
* 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
* 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or a Mexican blend)
* 1 tsp cumin
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder
* Salt and pepper to taste
Other:
* 8-10 large flour tortillas
What are the step-
Step 1: Preheat & Prep Pan
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating, grease a 9×13 inch baking dish. I usually just use cooking spray, but you can also lightly coat it with olive oil or butter. This will prevent the burritos from sticking to the bottom.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Can you cook chicken in a variety of ways? I usually boil it until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes, then shred it with two forks. What are some of the best ways to cook leftover rotisserie chicken? If you are boiling chicken, make sure you season the water. What is the best way to use salt and pepper?
Step 3: Sauté Veggies
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. This step really helps to bring out the flavors of the vegetables and adds a nice depth to the recipe.
Step 4: Combine Filling Ingredients
Add the cooked and shredded chicken, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, salsa, and cilantro (if using) to make a 3-4 serving. How do I add sautéed veggies to a skillet? Stir everything together until well combined. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. What is the best seasoning to use? Give it a taste and adjust as needed I like to add a pinch of chili powder to my recipe.
Step 5: Make the Smothering Sauce
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly. This creates a roux, which will thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the Sour Cream, green chilies, cheddar cheese, cumin, and garlic. Stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Make sure the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is smooth and creamy. If the sauce is too thick, add a little more chicken broth until it reaches your desired consistency. I have used milk in a pinch and it works just fine!
Step 6: Assemble the Burritos
How do you warm tortillas? What are some ways to do this in the microwave for a few seconds? Place about 1/2 cup of the chicken filling in the center of each tortilla. What is the best way to roll up a roll? Fold in the sides. Place the burritos seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
Step 7: Smother & Bake
If you’re making burritos, pour the smothering sauce evenly over them, making sure they are completely covered. In the preheated oven, bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbly and the burritos are tender. When heated through, lightly golden brown. If you want the tops to be extra golden, you can broil them for the last minute or two, but keep a tad thick. How do you keep a close eye on your eyes to prevent burning!
Step 8: Cool & Serve
Let the burritos cool completely before serving. This will allow the sauce to thicken slightly and prevent them from falling apart. What are some good side dishes to serve with extra cilantro, sour cream, or salsa? What are some of the Best Smothered Chicken burrito recipes ever?
What should I serve it with?
What are some of the best smothered chicken burrito recipes? I love serving these with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans. What is a salad with lime vinaigrette? If you’re looking for something a little more festive, try serving them with guacamole, pico de gallo, or toasted almonds. What are some examples of gallo, and tortilla chips What is Taco Tuesday? Is it true that I can chop up a potato and add it to scrambled eggs for breakfast? As dessert, well, a good churro never hurt anyone. What’s a good snack to have while you wait for the oven to heat up? What are some of the most versatile burritos?
What are some of the best ways to make smothered chicken burritos?
Okay, listen up, because I’m about to share some insider secrets that will take your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos to the next level!
* **Chicken Cooking Secrets:** Don’t overcook the chicken! Dry chicken is a burrito buzzkill. Poaching or slow cooking in the crockpot are my go-to methods for guaranteed tenderness. I learned this the hard way after a few batches of tough, dry chicken. Trust me on this one.
* **Spice It Up (or Down):** The taco seasoning is your friend, but don’t be afraid to customize it! Add a pinch of chili powder for extra heat, or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. If you’re spice-averse, use a mild taco seasoning and skip the green chilies in the sauce.
* **Cheese, Please!:** The type of cheese you use in the sauce matters! Cheddar is classic, but a Mexican blend or even Monterey Jack will also work beautifully. Just make sure it’s a good melting cheese for that perfectly gooey sauce.
* **Sauce Consistency is Key:** The sauce should be thick enough to coat the burritos, but not so thick that it’s gloppy. If it’s too thick, add a little more chicken broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes to allow it to thicken.
* **Don’t Overfill the Burritos:** Resist the urge to stuff the tortillas to the max! Overfilled burritos are difficult to roll and tend to burst during baking. Less is more in this case. This is a mistake I make all the time.
* **Tortilla Prep Matters:** Warm tortillas are easier to roll and less likely to tear. I usually warm them in the microwave for a few seconds or in a dry skillet over low heat.
* **Get Creative with the Filling:** Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fillings! Add some rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables to the mix. You can even add a layer of refried beans to the tortillas before adding the chicken filling.
* **Make-Ahead Magic:** These burritos are perfect for making ahead of time! Assemble them completely, but don’t bake them. Cover them tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, simply remove the plastic wrap and bake as directed.
* **Leftover Love:** Leftover Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are just as delicious! Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the microwave or in a preheated oven until heated through.
What are some Storing and Reheating Tips?
Storing these Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos is pretty straightforward! If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), you can store them in a couple of ways.
* **Refrigerator:** Place the cooled burritos in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to get them in the fridge within two hours of baking to prevent bacterial growth.
* **Freezer:** For longer storage, you can freeze the burritos. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag or airtight container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to eat them, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or in the microwave on the defrost setting.
* **Reheating:** To reheat the burritos, you can use the microwave or the oven. In the microwave, heat them for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. In the oven, preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. If the burritos are frozen, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the reheating time. You can add the glaze (or extra cheese) just before reheating for that fresh baked taste!
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
So, there you have it – my go-to recipe for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos! It’s a crowd-pleaser, a weeknight lifesaver, and just plain delicious. I truly believe this recipe is worth trying because it’s the perfect combination of easy and flavorful. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with a smile. If you enjoyed this recipe, be sure to check out some of my other Mexican-inspired dishes, like my Easy Chicken Enchiladas or my Homemade Guacamole. Happy cooking, friends! I can’t wait to hear how yours turn out. Let me know in the comments if you try it, and don’t forget to rate the recipe! And if you come up with any fun variations, I’d love to hear about them!
Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup Enchilada sauce
- 0.5 cup Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Cooked rice
- 1 can Black beans, rinsed and drained
- 12 count Burrito-size flour tortillas
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook chicken breasts until cooked through. Shred chicken.
- Combine shredded chicken and enchilada sauce in a bowl.
- Warm tortillas according to package directions.
- Fill each tortilla with chicken mixture, rice, black beans and cheese.
- Place burritos in a baking dish and bake for 20 minutes, or until heated through and cheese is melted.
