Chicken Burrito Recipe

Introduction to Chicken Burritos

A chicken burrito is a popular Mexican dish that consists of a flour tortilla wrapped around various ingredients, including chicken, rice, beans, and other toppings. This dish is perfect for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a satisfying late-night snack. In this article, we will guide you through making your own delicious chicken burritos at home. So, let’s dive in!

Ingredients for Chicken Burritos

For the Chicken:

• 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp cumin
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Rice:

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tbsp butter
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime

For the Beans:

• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp chili powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Additional Toppings:

• Large flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese
• Sour cream
• Salsa
• Diced tomatoes
• Sliced avocado
• Chopped cilantro
• Lime wedges

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Burritos

Preparing the Chicken

1. Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces and season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat.
3. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes, or until fully cooked and slightly browned. Set aside.

Preparing the Rice

1. In a saucepan, combine rice, water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil.
2. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the water has been absorbed.
3. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in chopped cilantro and lime juice. Set aside.

Preparing the Beans

1. In a small saucepan, combine the black beans, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are heated through. Set aside.

Assembling the Chicken Burrito

1. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave or on a skillet over low heat for a few seconds.
2. Lay a tortilla flat on a plate or cutting board. Spoon a layer of the cilantro-lime rice onto the center of the tortilla, followed by a layer of the seasoned black beans.
3. Add the cooked chicken pieces on top of the beans.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the chicken, and add your choice of additional toppings, such as sour cream, salsa, diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, and chopped cilantro.
5. Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards, then roll the burrito up tightly from the bottom. Cut the burrito in half diagonally, if desired, and serve with lime wedges.

Customizing Your Chicken Burrito

Vegetarian and Vegan Options

For a vegetarian option, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or sautéed veggies. For a vegan version, replace the chicken with seasoned tofu or tempeh, and use vegan cheese and sour cream.

Spicy Chicken Burrito

If you prefer a spicy kick, add jalapeños, hot sauce, or extra chili powder to the chicken seasoning or as a topping.

Low-Carb Chicken Burrito

To make a low-carb chicken burrito, swap the flour tortilla for a low-carb alternative or serve the filling in lettuce wraps or a bowl.

Conclusion

Now that you know how to make a delicious chicken burrito at home, you can customize it to your preferences and enjoy a satisfying, flavorful meal any time. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different ingredients and spices. Happy cooking!

FAQs

1. Can I freeze chicken burritos for later use? Yes, you can freeze chicken burritos. Wrap them individually in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, and store them in a freezer-safe container. To reheat, remove the wrapping and microwave the burrito or heat it in the oven.
2. What other proteins can I use in a burrito besides chicken? You can use any protein you like, such as beef, pork, shrimp, or even scrambled eggs for a breakfast burrito.
3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the recipe? Absolutely! Brown rice is a healthier option and works well in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions.
4. What other types of beans can I use in my chicken burrito? You can use any type of beans you prefer, such as pinto beans, kidney beans, or even refried beans.
5. How do I keep my burrito from falling apart while eating it? To prevent your burrito from falling apart, make sure to not overstuff it, fold the sides in tightly, and roll it up firmly. You can also wrap the burrito in aluminum foil or parchment paper to help keep everything together while eating.