Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

There's nothing quite like the comforting aroma of Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos filling your kitchen. These burritos are stuffed with tender, seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and fluffy rice, all wrapped in a warm tortilla and topped with a luscious enchilada sauce. They’re the ultimate in cozy, crowd-pleasing meals.

this Recipe

I first made this recipe during a busy weeknight when I needed something satisfying yet simple. Little did I know it would become a family staple, with everyone eagerly anticipating the moment these cheesy, sauce-drenched burritos come out of the oven. Let me show you how to make them your next favorite dinner.

Why You'll Love This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Get ready to fall in love with a dish that brings restaurant-quality flavor straight to your table. These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare.

First, these burritos are packed with bold, savory flavors. The combination of juicy chicken, tangy enchilada sauce, and gooey melted cheese ensures every bite is irresistible.

You’ll love how convenient this recipe is for meal prep. Cook the filling ahead of time, and assembly becomes a breeze when you’re ready to bake.

This recipe is also perfect for feeding a crowd. Whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, these burritos are sure to impress – and they’re budget-friendly too.

Best of all, it’s a customizable recipe. Swap the protein, adjust the spice level, or add your favorite toppings to make it your own. It’s a dish that adapts beautifully to suit any taste.

Ingredients Notes

The beauty of these Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need and why each component matters.

Chicken is the star of the filling. Use cooked, shredded chicken for the best texture – rotisserie chicken works wonderfully here for convenience. Season it with a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika for a smoky, rich flavor.

Tortillas are the foundation of the burritos. Opt for large, flour tortillas that can easily hold the hearty filling without tearing. Warm them slightly before assembling for maximum pliability.

Cheese adds the perfect amount of creaminess. A blend of Monterey Jack and cheddar melts beautifully, but you can use your favorite shredded cheese or even a spicy pepper jack for a kick.

Enchilada Sauce ties the dish together. A good-quality red enchilada sauce provides a tangy, slightly spicy coating that makes these burritos irresistible. Homemade or store-bought, choose a version you love.

Rice and Beans round out the filling. Use seasoned Mexican rice and black or pinto beans for added heartiness and a satisfying texture. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning before rolling everything up.

You’ll also need a baking dish to hold the burritos snugly while baking. A 9x13-inch dish is ideal for ensuring even cooking.

How To Make This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Making these burritos is as satisfying as eating them. Here’s how to create this flavorful dish step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease your baking dish lightly to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, prepare your chicken filling by combining shredded chicken with cooked rice, beans, spices, and a cup of enchilada sauce.

Lay out your tortillas and evenly divide the filling among them. Sprinkle a generous amount of shredded cheese over the filling, then roll each tortilla tightly, tucking in the sides as you go. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in your prepared dish.

Once all the burritos are arranged in the dish, pour the remaining enchilada sauce evenly over the top. Use a spoon to spread it so every burrito is well-coated. Sprinkle another layer of shredded cheese on top for that irresistible cheesy crust.

Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Let the burritos cool slightly before serving to ensure the filling stays intact.

These burritos come together in under an hour, making them perfect for busy evenings. Serve them hot with your favorite toppings, like sour cream, chopped cilantro, or diced avocado.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos store beautifully, making them ideal for meal prep.

For refrigeration, place leftover burritos in an airtight container. They’ll stay fresh for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop them in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or warm them in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

If you’d like to freeze them, wrap individual burritos in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to tailor it to your preferences.

• Swap the chicken for cooked ground beef, shredded pork, or a plant-based protein like jackfruit for a vegetarian version.
• Change up the sauce by using a green enchilada sauce or a creamy poblano sauce for a twist on the classic.
• Add vegetables like sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn to the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Experiment with different cheeses, like mozzarella, queso fresco, or a spicy habanero cheddar, to suit your taste.
• Top the burritos with extras like sliced jalapeños, pico de gallo, or a drizzle of hot sauce to kick up the heat.

Feel free to get creative with this recipe – it’s practically foolproof and perfect for making your own culinary masterpiece.

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