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.
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
Instructions
- Preparation: Preheat oven to 375F (190C), creating an ideal cooking environment for the burritos.
- 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.
- Filling Creation: Integrate refried or black beans into the chicken mixture, creating a harmonious and textured filling that will anchor the burrito’s core.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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