Highlight: Satisfying Main Dishes for Every Occasion
These Chicken Bell Pepper Burritos are the ultimate weeknight winner—juicy, seasoned chicken strips combined with tender sautéed red and green bell peppers, all wrapped in warm, soft flour tortillas. Fluffy rice, creamy ranch dressing, and melted cheddar cheese round out every bite, while a quick skillet toast gives the burrito a golden, slightly crisp exterior. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, these burritos balance smoky spices, fresh vegetables, and creamy elements for a dish that satisfies both flavor and comfort cravings.
Whether you’re feeding a busy family, prepping freezer meals, or craving a quick but hearty dinner, these burritos check every box. With simple ingredients and easy steps, they’re a versatile favorite that can be customized to suit your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy—ready in just 30 minutes
- Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
- Comforting flavors with a creamy ranch twist
- High in protein and full of hearty vegetables
- Perfect for meal prep, busy weeknights, or Taco Tuesday
- Easily customizable for vegetarian or lighter options
At my house, these burritos quickly became a weekly staple. My kids love helping assemble them, and everyone competes to roll theirs the tightest. The combination of smoky paprika, tender chicken, and sweet bell peppers keeps everyone coming back for more.
Everything You’ll Need
Protein
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, thinly sliced
Vegetables
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
Dairy
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ½ cup ranch dressing
Grains
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup cooked rice
Oils & Spices
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Herbs (Optional)
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Slice chicken breasts thinly for even and quick cooking. Season generously with garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper.
Step 2: Sauté the Chicken
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 5–7 minutes, turning occasionally, until golden and cooked through with no pink remaining.
Step 3: Add the Bell Peppers
Toss in the sliced red and green bell peppers. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened with caramelized edges but still a bit crisp.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
While the filling finishes cooking, heat flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and flexible to prevent tearing.
Step 5: Assemble Burritos
On each warmed tortilla, layer cooked rice, the chicken and bell pepper mixture, a drizzle of ranch dressing, and shredded cheddar cheese evenly.
Step 6: Roll and Toast
Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll tightly to secure the fillings. Optionally, toast the seam-side down in the skillet for 1–2 minutes until golden and slightly crisp.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top, if desired, for a fresh, herbal finish. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Tips for Perfect Burritos
- Slice chicken thin so it cooks quickly and evenly
- Warm tortillas before filling to prevent cracking
- Toast the filled burritos for a crisp golden exterior
- Customize fillings to suit your family: switch cheese types, add beans, or use mushrooms for a vegetarian version
Recipe FAQs
→ What spices flavor the chicken?
Garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper combine to create a smoky, aromatic profile.
→ Can I use a different cheese?
Yes! Pepper jack, mozzarella, or any melty cheese works beautifully inside these burritos.
→ Can I make these vegetarian?
Absolutely. Replace the chicken with sliced mushrooms, black beans, or a combination for a hearty vegetarian option.
→ How do I get a crispy exterior?
After rolling, toast the burritos seam-side down in a skillet over medium heat until golden brown.
→ Are there healthier swaps?
Use whole wheat tortillas and a light ranch dressing to reduce calories without sacrificing flavor.
Storage Tips
Wrap leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, place wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag for up to 2 months. Reheat in the microwave or crisp them in a skillet before serving.
Cultural Context
Burritos are a beloved staple of Mexican-inspired cuisine in the United States. Combining fluffy rice, juicy chicken, melted cheese, and fresh vegetables rolled into warm tortillas makes them endlessly versatile. These Chicken Bell Pepper Burritos bring together classic flavors in a quick, approachable format for home cooks everywhere.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with a side salad, black bean salsa, or tortilla chips
- Slice into halves or rounds for casual parties or appetizers
- Pair with guacamole or extra ranch for dipping
Must-Have Equipment
- Large skillet
- Cooking utensils
- Knife and cutting board
Nutritional Highlights (per burrito)
- Calories: 520
- Fat: 26 g
- Carbohydrates: 42 g
- Protein: 30 g