Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

The Ultimate Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe Everyone Loves

Chicken burritos smothered in a rich, creamy sauce create a mouthwatering meal that promises pure comfort.

These baked delights burst with savory flavors and tender meat wrapped in warm tortillas.

Every bite delivers a delectable blend of spices and melted cheese.

The recipe combines simple ingredients with bold, zesty seasonings that dance across your palate.

Hearty and satisfying, these burritos will become a staple in your dinner rotation.

The golden-brown exterior gives way to a succulent filling that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Baked Chicken Burritos Ingredient Checklist

Main Ingredients:
  • Tortillas: Large soft wraps that hold the delicious chicken filling.
  • Chicken: Tender shredded meat that serves as the primary protein for the burritos.
  • Enchilada Sauce: Flavorful sauce that covers and moistens the burritos.
  • Cheese: Melty topping that adds richness and creaminess to the dish.
Filling Components:
  • Rice: Optional ingredient that adds texture and bulk to the burrito filling.
  • Black Beans: Protein-packed ingredient that complements the chicken.
  • Sour Cream: Creamy element that provides moisture and tang to the mixture.
Seasoning Blend:
  • Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder: Spices that create a warm and savory flavor profile for the chicken mixture.
Garnish:
  • Fresh Cilantro, Green Onions: Fresh herbs that provide a bright and aromatic finishing touch to the baked burritos.

Steps for Smothered Chicken Burritos

Step 1: Warm Up The Cooking Space

Crank the oven to a toasty 375°F and get ready for some serious flavor magic.

Step 2: Create The Flavor Explosion

Grab a spacious mixing bowl and combine these delicious ingredients:
  • Shredded chicken
  • Cooked rice
  • Black beans
  • Shredded cheese
  • Sour cream
  • Chili powder
  • Cumin
  • Garlic powder

Mix everything until the ingredients become best friends.

Step 3: Wrap The Tasty Bundles

Take a tortilla and place a generous scoop of the chicken mixture right in the center.

Roll it up tight like a cozy blanket, tucking in the sides to prevent any flavor from escaping.

Place each burrito seam-side down in a greased baking dish.

Step 4: Sauce It Up

Pour enchilada sauce all over the burritos, making sure every inch gets a delicious bath of flavor.

Step 5: Cheese Shower

Sprinkle a generous handful of shredded cheese on top, creating a golden, melty blanket.

Step 6: Bake To Perfection

Slide the baking dish into the preheated oven and let the magic happen for 20-25 minutes.

Wait until the cheese turns into a bubbly, golden masterpiece and the burritos are heated through.

Step 7: Garnish And Serve

Sprinkle fresh cilantro and diced green onions on top for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Serve hot and enjoy your mouthwatering creation!

Pro Hints for Flavorful Burritos

  • Swap chicken for ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken to reduce fat and add more flavor.
  • Pat chicken dry before mixing to avoid excess moisture that can make tortillas soggy.
  • Add a dash of hot sauce or jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra kick and depth of flavor.
  • Prepare and assemble burritos up to 24 hours in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready to serve.
  • Use corn tortillas and ensure enchilada sauce is gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.

Smothered Burrito Variations to Explore

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with seasoned tofu, black beans, or roasted vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a plant-based version.
  • Gluten-Free Option: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure enchilada sauce is gluten-free certified.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Swap tortillas with large lettuce leaves and replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, carb-conscious meal.
  • Spicy Southwest Remix: Add diced jalapeños, swap chili powder for chipotle powder, and include pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of heat.

How to Serve Baked Chicken Burritos Creatively

  • Fresh Fiesta Finish: Top with crisp chopped lettuce, diced tomatoes, and extra sour cream for a cool, refreshing contrast to the hot burritos.
  • Salsa Splash: Serve with homemade or store-bought salsa, offering guests a zesty condiment that adds bright, tangy flavor to each bite.
  • Sidekick Sensation: Pair with Mexican-style rice, refried beans, or a light corn salad to create a complete and satisfying meal that balances the rich burritos.
  • Guacamole Glamour: Add a creamy, fresh guacamole on the side for dipping, bringing a smooth avocado element that complements the spicy and cheesy burritos.

Storing Burritos for Easy Meals Later

  • Store leftover burritos in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to maintain moisture and prevent freezer burn.
  • Place burritos in a freezer-safe container or freezer bag. Label with the date and store for up to 2-3 months. Separate each burrito with parchment paper to prevent sticking.
  • Unwrap frozen or refrigerated burrito, place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes, rotating halfway through. Add a damp paper towel on top to keep the tortilla soft and prevent drying.

FAQs

  • Are these burritos spicy?

The seasoning like chili powder adds mild heat, but you can adjust by reducing or omitting spices for a milder version.

  • Can I use other meats instead of chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded beef, pulled pork, or ground turkey work great as protein alternatives.

  • Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes, you can assemble burritos ahead of time and refrigerate before baking, making it convenient for busy weeknights.

  • Do I need any special equipment to make these burritos?

No, just a baking dish, mixing bowl, and basic kitchen tools are required for this straightforward recipe.

Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos, Why They Shine

  • Whip Up Comfort Food: These burritos deliver a warm, satisfying meal that hugs your taste buds with cheesy, savory goodness perfect for family dinners.
  • Customize with Ease: Swap ingredients like chicken for beef, add different beans, or include extra spices to match your personal flavor preferences and dietary needs.
  • Quick Weeknight Winner: Minimal prep work and simple steps make this recipe a go-to solution for busy households craving delicious Mexican-inspired cuisine without complicated cooking techniques.
  • One-Pan Wonder: Bake everything in a single dish, reducing cleanup time and making meal preparation stress-free for home cooks of all skill levels.
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Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe


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4.7 from 30 reviews

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Succulent Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos deliver Mexican comfort straight to dinner tables with rich, cheesy goodness. Packed with tender chicken, zesty spices, and melted cheese, these burritos promise a satisfying meal you’ll crave again and again.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken

Beans and Grains:

  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup black beans, rinsed and drained

Cheese and Dairy:

  • 1 cup shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Tortillas and Sauce:

  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • 1 1/2 cups red enchilada sauce

Topping:

  • 1 cup shredded cheese
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Diced green onions

Instructions

  1. Warm the oven to 375°F, preparing a greased baking dish for the burritos.
  2. Craft a flavorful filling by thoroughly blending shredded chicken with seasoned rice, black beans, melted cheese, creamy sour cream, and aromatic spices until ingredients harmonize perfectly.
  3. Distribute the savory mixture strategically across tortillas, ensuring even placement in the center of each wrap.
  4. Fold and roll tortillas tightly, tucking in sides to create compact bundles with sealed edges.
  5. Arrange the rolled burritos seam-side down in the prepared baking dish, positioning them snugly.
  6. Cascade enchilada sauce generously over the burritos, ensuring complete and even coverage.
  7. Shower the surface with a lavish layer of shredded cheese, creating a golden, melty topping.
  8. Transfer the dish to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese transforms into a bubbling, golden blanket.
  9. Remove from oven and embellish with fresh cilantro and delicate green onion slices for a vibrant finishing touch.
  10. Serve immediately while the burritos remain hot and the cheese stays deliciously molten.

Notes

  • Swap protein easily by using pulled pork, ground beef, or vegetarian alternatives like jackfruit or tofu for diverse dietary preferences.
  • Prep burritos ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking, making meal planning super convenient.
  • Control spice levels by adjusting chili powder and using mild or hot enchilada sauce based on personal heat tolerance.
  • Enhance nutrition by adding extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or corn directly into the chicken mixture for added texture and vitamins.
  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 350 kcal
  • Sugar: 3 g
  • Sodium: 700 mg
  • Fat: 15 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
  • Trans Fat: 0.2 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 6 g
  • Protein: 25 g
  • Cholesterol: 50 mg
Natalie Brooks

Natalie Brooks

Co-Founder & Content Strategist

Expertise

  • Vegan and plant-based recipe creation
  • Meal planning and nutritional analysis
  • Storytelling through blog content, video, and social media

Education

eCornell

  • Program: Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate
  • Focus: Whole-food, plant-based cooking, with a foundation in nutritional science and sustainable eating habits.

Natalie brings the vibrant, plant-powered side to Culinary Duo. After earning her Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate from eCornell, she combined her love for fresh ingredients with a passion for storytelling, aiming to make healthy cooking simple and satisfying.
Her kitchen motto: good food doesn’t need a fancy label, it just needs fresh ideas and a little creativity. Outside of writing and recipe testing, Natalie’s happiest in her garden, exploring farmers’ markets, or mixing global flavors into new kitchen experiments.

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