The Melty Magic: Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Comfort meets creativity in these mouthwatering smothered baked chicken burritos that promise a flavor explosion.

Crispy tortillas wrapped around tender chicken create a meal everyone will crave.

Melted cheese cascades over perfectly seasoned filling, making each bite irresistible.

Mexican-inspired ingredients dance together in this simple yet satisfying dish.

Home cooks can easily assemble these burritos with basic pantry staples.

Weeknight dinners just got way more exciting with this crowd-pleasing recipe.

Why Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Delight

Whip Up Comfort: Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

  • Quick Family Feast: Easily feeds 4-6 people with minimal prep time, perfect for busy weeknight dinners or casual gatherings.
  • Beginner-Friendly Cooking: Simple one-bowl mixing technique and straightforward baking method make this recipe accessible for home cooks of all skill levels.
  • Customizable Flavor Adventure: Flexible ingredients allow easy substitutions and personal touches, letting everyone create their perfect burrito experience with optional toppings like jalapeños or fresh herbs.
  • Meal Prep Champion: Leftovers reheat beautifully, making these burritos an excellent option for lunch the next day or preparing ahead for quick meals during hectic weeks.

Baked Chicken Burritos Stuffing Essentials

Protein Base:
  • Shredded Cooked Chicken: Tender, flavorful protein that forms the main filling of the burritos.
  • Black Beans: Hearty protein source that adds texture and nutritional value.
Starch and Filling:
  • Cooked Rice: Provides substance and helps bind the burrito ingredients together.
  • Large Flour Tortillas: Soft, pliable wrap that holds all the delicious ingredients.
Flavor Enhancers:
  • Mexican Blend Cheese or Cheddar: Adds creamy, melty goodness and rich flavor.
  • Enchilada Sauce: Provides a tangy, spicy sauce that moistens and seasons the burritos.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder: Blend of spices that create a warm, complex flavor profile.
Creamy Additions:
  • Sour Cream: Adds a cool, tangy element to balance the spices.
Optional Garnishes:
  • Chopped Cilantro, Diced Tomatoes, Sliced Jalapenos: Fresh toppings that add color, freshness, and extra kick.

Smothered Baked Chicken Burrito Assembly

Step 1: Warm Up the Oven

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F, getting it ready for some serious burrito magic.

Step 2: Create the Flavor Explosion

In a spacious mixing bowl, toss together these mouthwatering ingredients:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cooked rice
  • Black beans
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Enchilada sauce
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Garlic powder

Mix everything until it’s perfectly blended and looks irresistible.

Step 3: Wrap Up the Goodness

Spread a generous scoop of the chicken mixture right in the center of each tortilla.

Roll those babies up tight, making sure to tuck in the sides.

Place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish, looking neat and tidy.

Step 4: Sauce and Cheese It Up

Drizzle extra enchilada sauce all over the burritos, making sure every inch gets covered.

Sprinkle a lavish layer of shredded cheese on top for that ultimate melty goodness.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven.

Let the burritos bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns golden and starts bubbling with deliciousness.

Step 6: Dress and Serve

Pull the baking dish out of the oven.

If you’re feeling fancy, add some final touches like:
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced jalapeños

Serve these bad boys piping hot and watch everyone dive in!

Baked Chicken Burritos With Wrapped-Right Know-How

  • Mix different proteins like ground beef, shredded pork, or vegetarian alternatives to create unique flavor combinations.
  • Pat dry chicken and rice before mixing to reduce excess moisture and maintain a crisp tortilla texture.
  • Use whole wheat, low-carb, or gluten-free tortillas to accommodate dietary preferences without compromising taste.
  • Adjust chili powder and add jalapeños gradually to match your heat tolerance, ensuring everyone enjoys the dish.
  • Prepare burritos in advance, wrap individually in foil, and refrigerate or freeze for quick weeknight dinners.

Store Chicken Burritos And Reheat Fully Covered

  • Store leftover burritos in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Keep refrigerated for up to 3-4 days.
  • Wrap each burrito separately in aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent freezer burn if freezing.
  • Place wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag or container. Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.
  • Thaw overnight in the refrigerator. Unwrap from foil and reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until heated through. Alternatively, microwave for 2-3 minutes, turning halfway to ensure even warming.

Ideal Matches for Chicken Burritos (Smothered)

  • Refresh with Mexican-Inspired Drink: Pair this hearty chicken burrito with a zesty margarita blending fresh lime juice, tequila, and a touch of agave nectar for a tangy complement.
  • Cool Down with Creamy Accompaniment: Serve alongside a refreshing Mexican street corn salad with crema, cotija cheese, and chili powder that balances the burrito's rich flavors.
  • Elevate with Fresh Salsa Sensation: Add a bright pico de gallo with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice to cut through the burrito's richness and provide a crisp contrast.
  • Balance with Light Citrus Beverage: Enjoy a chilled Mexican lager or a crisp horchata to soothe the palate and cleanse between delicious burrito bites.

Baked Chicken Burritos with Smothered Saucy Toppings

  • Vegetarian Delight: Swap chicken with roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, and plant-based cheese for a hearty meat-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure all seasonings are certified gluten-free for sensitive individuals.
  • Keto-Friendly Adaptation: Replace rice with cauliflower rice, use low-carb tortillas, and increase protein and cheese content to match ketogenic macronutrient requirements.
  • Dairy-Free Alternative: Substitute regular cheese with vegan cheese alternatives, use coconut milk-based sour cream, and maintain original flavor profile with robust spices.

FAQs

  • Can I use different types of meat for this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute shredded chicken with ground beef, pulled pork, or even turkey for variety in flavor and texture.

  • Is this recipe spicy?

The recipe has mild spices like chili powder and cumin. You can adjust the heat by adding more chili powder or including jalapeños for extra spiciness.

  • How can I make this recipe healthier?

Use whole wheat tortillas, low-fat cheese, Greek yogurt instead of sour cream, and add more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach to increase nutritional value.

  • Can I prepare these burritos in advance?

Absolutely! You can assemble the burritos ahead of time, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if cooking from cold.

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Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe


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4.6 from 40 reviews

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 1x

Description

Hearty Mexican-inspired “Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos” bring comfort and flavor to dinner tables with robust spices and cheesy goodness. Generous portions and simple preparation make this dish perfect for hungry families seeking a satisfying meal.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Protein:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

Starch and Beans:

  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 6 large flour tortillas

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 1 cup shredded cheese (Mexican blend or cheddar)
  • 1/2 cup sour cream
  • 1 cup additional shredded cheese (for topping)

Seasonings:

  • 1/2 cup enchilada sauce
  • 1 cup additional enchilada sauce (for topping)
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Optional Garnish:

  • Chopped cilantro
  • Diced tomatoes
  • Sliced jalapenos

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 375°F, preparing a baking dish with a light coating of cooking spray to prevent sticking.
  2. Create a robust filling by thoroughly blending tender shredded chicken with fluffy cooked rice, hearty black beans, melty cheese, creamy sour cream, zesty enchilada sauce, and an aromatic blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder.
  3. Lay out soft tortillas and distribute the savory mixture evenly across the center of each, ensuring a balanced distribution of ingredients.
  4. Carefully fold and roll each tortilla into a compact bundle, tucking in the edges to secure the filling and placing them seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  5. Generously cascade additional enchilada sauce over the assembled burritos, ensuring complete coverage, then sprinkle a generous layer of cheese across the top.
  6. Transfer the baking dish to the preheated oven and allow the burritos to bake until the cheese transforms into a golden, bubbling blanket and the edges become slightly crisp.
  7. Once removed from the oven, enhance the presentation with vibrant garnishes like fresh cilantro, juicy diced tomatoes, or spicy sliced jalapeños for an extra flavor dimension.
  8. Serve immediately while the burritos are hot and the cheese remains delightfully melted.

Notes

  • Prep chicken ahead by slow-cooking or using rotisserie for extra flavor and tender meat.
  • Swap regular tortillas with gluten-free or low-carb alternatives for dietary restrictions.
  • Control spice levels by adjusting chili powder and adding mild or hot sauce according to preference.
  • Enhance meal prep by assembling burritos in advance and refrigerating before baking for quick weeknight dinners.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6
  • Calories: 540
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 820 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 58 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 90 mg
James Walker

James Walker

Lead Recipe Developer & Culinary Educator

Expertise

Southern Cuisine & Farm-to-Table Cooking, Recipe Development & Testing, Culinary Education & Instruction​

Education

School: Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts

Program: Diploma in Culinary Arts and Operations

Focus: Comprehensive training in classical and modern culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and farm-to-table practices. ​


James didn’t learn cooking from a TV show, he learned it from busy kitchens, family gatherings, and long afternoons spent testing recipes the hard way.
After training at the Auguste Escoffier School of Culinary Arts, he brought his love for real, down-to-earth food to every dish he makes.
At Dining At Home, James loves building recipes that feel familiar but still have something special, like adding a twist to a classic or making a slow Sunday dinner feel brand new.
When he’s not in the kitchen, you’ll probably find him swapping garden tips at the farmers’ market or teaching his daughter how to flip pancakes without a mess (almost).

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