Flavor-Packed Cheesy Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Weeknight dinners spark pure magic when a smothered baked chicken burritos recipe lands on your plate.

These delectable bundles pack serious flavor with every single bite.

Melted cheese cascades over tender chicken and soft tortillas, creating an irresistible meal that screams comfort.

Crispy edges hint at the deliciousness waiting inside these wrapped treasures.

Homemade burritos beat takeout any day, delivering restaurant-quality satisfaction straight from your kitchen.

Layers of seasoned chicken, creamy beans, and gooey cheese transform an ordinary evening into a culinary celebration.

Each forkful promises a journey of southwestern-inspired deliciousness that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ingredients for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

• Tortillas: Soft, pliable canvas that holds all the delicious ingredients together, choose fresh flour tortillas for best rolling.
• Shredded Chicken: Protein-packed protein that provides hearty texture, use rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken for convenience.

• Onions, Garlic: Aromatic base that builds deep, savory foundation for the dish, select fresh, firm produce for maximum flavor.
• Cumin, Chili Powder, Salt, Pepper: Spice blend that creates robust southwestern profile, use freshly ground spices for more intense taste.
• Refried Beans, Black Beans: Creamy, hearty filling that adds texture and protein, opt for low-sodium varieties for better control.

• Cheese: Melty connector that brings all ingredients together, select a blend of monterey jack and cheddar for rich, gooey consistency.
• Green Chili Sauce, Enchilada Sauce: Zesty liquid that moistens and adds tangy kick, choose homemade or high-quality store-bought sauce for authentic flavor.

Tools for Building and Baking Smothered Chicken Burritos

• Skillet: Large pan for sautéing onions, garlic, and chicken mixture.
• Baking dish: Rectangular dish to hold and bake the burritos.
• Aluminum foil: Covers burritos during initial baking to prevent burning.
• Cheese grater: Optional tool for shredding cheese if using block cheese.
• Measuring spoons: For accurately measuring spices like cumin and chili powder.
• Cutting board: Provides surface for chopping onions and preparing ingredients.
• Chef's knife: Sharp knife for dicing onions and preparing chicken.

How to Bake Smothered Chicken Burritos with Ease

• Fire Up the Oven

Crank the temperature to a toasty 375F for the perfect baked burrito environment.

• Create Flavor Foundation

Sizzle onions and garlic in a skillet until they become soft and fragrant, releasing their delicious aroma.

• Build Protein Power

Toss in shredded chicken with spices, letting the flavors dance and meld together until everything is thoroughly heated.

• Add Bean Magic

Fold in refried or black beans, stirring until the mixture becomes a delectable filling.

• Wrap Your Treasure

Place the scrumptious chicken mixture in the center of a tortilla, sprinkle with cheese, and roll into a tight, delicious package.

• Arrange in Baking Dish

Nestle the burritos seam-side down, creating a cozy arrangement.

• Sauce It Up

Drench the burritos in green chili or enchilada sauce, making sure every inch is covered in saucy goodness.

• Cheese Crown

Shower the top with an extra layer of cheese for maximum deliciousness.

• Bake to Perfection

Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and continue baking for 10 more minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbly, golden masterpiece.

• Serve and Celebrate

Deck out your burritos with favorite toppings and get ready to dive into flavor heaven.

Tips to Customize Chicken Burritos for Your Taste

• Pro Meal Prep Magic: Prepare chicken mixture and assemble burritos up to 2 days ahead, storing tightly wrapped in refrigerator before final baking for quick weeknight dinners.
• Protein Power Switch: Swap chicken for ground turkey, shredded beef, or black beans to create delicious alternative protein versions that keep the recipe exciting and flexible.
• Spice Level Control: Adjust heat by choosing mild, medium, or hot green chili sauce. Add diced jalapeños or hot sauce for extra kick, or keep ingredients mild for sensitive palates.
• Gluten-Free Friendly: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure sauce ingredients are gluten-free certified to make this recipe safe for those with gluten sensitivities.
• Healthier Makeover: Replace regular cheese with low-fat cheese, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for toppings, and add extra vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to boost nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions for Smothered Burritos

• Fiesta Fresh Finish: Top each burrito with crisp chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, and a dollop of cool sour cream for a burst of color and tangy flavor.
• Zesty Side Companions: Serve alongside Mexican-style rice, chunky guacamole, or a bright citrus-dressed salad to complement the rich burrito flavors.
• Dipping Delight: Prepare quick salsa verde, creamy avocado sauce, or traditional red enchilada sauce for guests to customize their burritos with extra zesty drizzles.
• Spice Level Playground: Set out hot sauce, jalapeño slices, and chopped green onions so everyone can adjust the heat and add personal flair to their meal.

Storing and Reheating Smothered Chicken Burritos

• Smart Refrigeration Strategy: Store leftover burritos in airtight containers within 2 hours of cooking. Properly sealed burritos maintain delicious flavor and texture for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Freezer-Friendly Option: Wrap individual burritos tightly in plastic wrap, then aluminum foil before freezing. These hearty meals will stay fresh for up to 2 months, perfect for quick future dinners.
• Reheating Tricks: Warm refrigerated burritos in the oven at 350F for 15-20 minutes to restore crispy edges and melty cheese. Microwave works for faster reheating, but might soften tortilla texture.
• Meal Prep Genius: Prepare burrito filling and assemble burritos in advance. Keep unbaked burritos refrigerated for up to 24 hours before baking. This strategy saves time during busy weeknights and allows flexible meal planning.

Quick Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 20 minutes

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Calories: 500 kcal

Servings: 6

Cheesy Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

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4.9 from 11 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 7 1x

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Description

Mexican-inspired smothered baked chicken burritos deliver comfort and flavor in one hearty dish. Creamy sauce, tender chicken, and melted cheese create a satisfying meal that brings southwest charm to your dinner table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500 g (1 lb) cooked shredded chicken (rotisserie or poached)
• 200 g (2 cups) shredded cheese (cheddar, monterey jack, or a blend)
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup cooked rice (optional)
• 500 ml (2 cups) chicken broth
• 2 tbsps butter
• 2 tbsps all-purpose flour
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (4 oz) diced green chilies (or fresh roasted)
• ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp cumin
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preparation: Preheat oven to 375F (190C), creating an ideal cooking environment for the burritos.
2. Flavor Development: In a skillet over medium heat, caramelize onions and garlic until translucent, releasing their aromatic essence. Incorporate shredded chicken, infusing with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper to build a robust flavor profile.
3. Filling Creation: Integrate refried or black beans into the chicken mixture, creating a harmonious and textured filling that will anchor the burrito’s core.
4. Assembly: Lay out tortillas, distribute the seasoned chicken-bean mixture centrally, and generously layer cheese. Expertly roll each burrito, tucking edges to seal the savory contents securely.
5. Baking Preparation: Nestle burritos seam-side down in a baking dish, ensuring a snug arrangement. Generously drench with green chili or enchilada sauce, completely coating the burritos. Sprinkle an additional cheese layer for heightened richness.
6. Baking Process: Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and intensify. Uncover and continue baking for 10 more minutes until cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling crust.
7. Serving: Garnish with fresh cilantro, dollops of sour cream, or diced tomatoes to elevate the final presentation and add vibrant flavor accents.

Notes

• Prevent Soggy Burritos: Pat chicken dry before sautéing to remove excess moisture and ensure crisp tortilla texture.
• Balance Seasoning Carefully: Start with small amounts of cumin and chili powder, tasting and adjusting to avoid overpowering the chicken’s natural flavor.
• Secure Burrito Edges: Use a tight rolling technique and place seam-side down to prevent unraveling during baking.
• Customize for Dietary Needs: Swap flour tortillas with gluten-free options, use low-fat cheese, and replace chicken with black beans for vegetarian version.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 7
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 850 mg
• Fat: 20 g
• Saturated Fat: 10 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 40 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 80 mg