Name: Quick Easy Chicken Burritos
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Ingredients: 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced); 1 cup cooked rice; 1 can (14 oz black beans, drained and rinsed); 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or blend); 1 tsp chili powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste); 4-6 large flour tortillas; Optional toppings: salsa (sour cream, avocado or guacamole, chopped cilantro, lime wedges)

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Warm and comforting, these Quick & Easy Chicken Burritos combine tender, seasoned chicken with hearty rice, savory black beans, and melty cheese. Wrapped in soft flour tortillas, they make a satisfying meal that comes together in no time, perfect for those busy weeknights or a fast lunch.

Each bite delivers a harmonious blend of spices and fresh ingredients, with plenty of options to customize your toppings and make it your own. Grab your skillet and let’s roll these burritos to deliciousness!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Ready in under 30 minutes for quick lunches and dinners.
Hearty, protein-packed filling with balanced textures and flavors.
Highly customizable with your favorite toppings and mix-ins.
Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd with minimal effort.

Ingredients

Cooked chicken (2 cups): Shredded or diced, this protein-packed base soaks up the spices wonderfully.
Cooked rice (1 cup): Provides a fluffy, mild starchy layer that balances the bold fillings.
Black beans (1 can, ≈ 400 g / 14 oz): Drained and rinsed, they add creaminess and fiber to each bite.
Shredded cheese (1 cup): Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend, melting smoothly for gooey indulgence.
Chili powder (1 tsp): Adds a warm, smoky depth that complements the chicken.
Ground cumin (1 tsp): Provides earthy, slightly nutty notes to the seasoning mix.
Salt & freshly ground black pepper: Essential for enhancing and balancing all flavors.
Large flour tortillas (4–6): Soft and pliable wraps to hold all the delicious fillings together.
Optional toppings: Salsa, sour cream, avocado or guacamole, chopped cilantro, lime wedges to brighten and personalize each burrito.

Instructions

Season the Chicken: In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked chicken with chili powder, ground cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to ensure every piece is evenly coated, allowing the spices to infuse the chicken with vibrant flavors.
Warm the Fillings: Gently heat the seasoned chicken, rice, and black beans together in a skillet or microwave until hot. Warming these ingredients helps the cheese melt better and blends the flavors more harmoniously in the burrito.
Assemble the Burritos: Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Add a scoop of warm rice, a portion of the seasoned chicken, a serving of black beans, and a generous handful of shredded cheese in the center. This layering builds a balanced, satisfying bite each time.
Fold & Roll: Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it tightly from one end to the other, ensuring all ingredients are securely wrapped. Tight rolling prevents the burrito from falling apart while eating and keeps fillings evenly distributed.
Heat (Optional): To achieve a crispy outer shell, place the burritos seam-side down on a medium-heat skillet. Cook 1–2 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crisp, adding texture contrast to the warm, melty interior.
Serve: Serve the burritos warm with your favorite toppings such as fresh salsa, tangy sour cream, creamy avocado or guacamole, chopped cilantro for brightness, and lime wedges for a citrusy finish.

You Must Know

Adding scrambled eggs transforms these into a delicious breakfast option with extra protein.
Including veggies like bell peppers, corn, or sautéed onions boosts flavor and nutrition.
Mixing cheeses maximizes meltiness and gives a richer taste to your burrito.
Pair well with tortilla chips and pico de gallo for a complete, flavorful meal.

Storage Tips

Store any leftover burritos wrapped tightly in foil or airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through for best texture and flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burritos alongside fresh green salads, corn salsa, or your favorite Mexican-style side dishes. They also pair well with a cold, refreshing beverage for a balanced meal.

Professional Tips

Use day-old rice for better texture that holds up in the filling.
Warm tortillas before assembling to prevent cracking and make folding easier.
Customize spice levels by adjusting chili powder or adding a pinch of cayenne.
For faster assembly, prep all fillings ahead and assemble just before serving.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought rotisserie chicken?: Yes! Rotisserie chicken works perfectly as it’s already cooked, tender, and flavorful, saving you prep time.
What type of tortillas work best?: Large, soft flour tortillas are ideal because they’re pliable and easy to fold without tearing.
Can I freeze these burritos?: Yes, wrap them individually and freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat fully before serving.
How can I make them spicier?: Add jalapeños, chipotle powder, or a splash of hot sauce to the chicken seasoning for extra heat.
Are these burritos suitable for meal prep?: Absolutely! Prepare fillings in advance and assemble burritos on the day you want to eat for freshness.
What can I use instead of black beans?: Pinto beans or refried beans are great alternatives and complement the chicken filling well.
Can I make this vegetarian?: Replace chicken with seasoned grilled vegetables or tofu, and omit chicken seasoning. Beans and rice provide good protein.