Chicken Burrito Recipe to Try if You Want an Easy and Filling Grab-and-Go Food

This flavorful chicken burrito recipe is made fully from scratch, including the rice and refried beans. The steps are simple, and the result is a warm and satisfying burrito that you can enjoy anytime.

Ingredients

For the chicken:

- 500 grams boneless chicken breast or thigh

- 1 tablespoon cooking oil

- 1 teaspoon ground cumin

- 1 teaspoon paprika

- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

- 2 tablespoons water

For the rice:

- 1 cup long-grain white rice

- 2 cups water or chicken broth

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1/2 teaspoon salt

For the refried beans:

- 1 cup cooked pinto beans or canned beans, drained

- 1 tablespoon oil

- 1/4 teaspoon salt

- 1/4 teaspoon cumin

- 2–3 tablespoons water

For assembling:

- Large flour tortillas

- Shredded cheese

- Chopped lettuce

- Diced tomato

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the rice

Rinse the rice under clean water until the water looks clear. Heat oil in a pot over medium heat. Add the rice and stir for about one minute so the grains are lightly coated with oil. Pour in water or broth and add salt. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and cover the pot. Let the rice cook for about 15 minutes until soft. Turn off the heat and let it rest with the lid on.

Step 2: Prepare the refried beans

Heat oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the cooked beans, salt, and cumin. Use a spoon or fork to mash the beans slowly. Add water little by little while stirring, until the beans become thick and creamy. Lower the heat and keep warm.

Step 3: Cook the chicken

Cut the chicken into small pieces. Heat oil in a pan and add the chicken. Cook for a few minutes until the outside turns white. Add cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices coat the chicken evenly. Add water, cover the pan, and let the chicken cook until tender and fully done.

Step 4: Warm the tortillas

Heat each tortilla in a dry pan for a few seconds on each side. This makes them soft and easier to roll.

Step 5: Assemble the burrito

Place a tortilla on a flat surface. Add rice in the center, followed by refried beans, chicken, cheese, lettuce, and tomato. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.

Making a good chicken burrito recipe is not only about the ingredients but also about technique. These practical tips will help you get better results every time.

1. Warm the Tortilla First: Heating the tortilla before filling makes it soft and flexible, so it bends easily and does not tear when you roll the burrito tightly.

2. Keep Fillings in One Line: Place all fillings in a straight line in the center to help you roll the burrito evenly and avoid loose or messy edges.

3. Avoid Overstuffing the Burrito: Adding too many fillings can make the burrito hard to close and cause it to break while rolling or eating.

4. Roll in the Right Order: Fold the bottom over the filling first, tuck in both sides, then roll forward slowly to create a firm and neat burrito.

5. Cut Chicken into Small Pieces: Smaller chicken pieces cook evenly and fit better inside the burrito, making each bite balanced and easy to eat.

6. Let Rice Cool Slightly: Warm rice releases steam that can make tortillas wet, so resting the rice briefly helps keep the burrito dry.

7. Cook Chicken on Medium Heat: Using medium heat allows the chicken to cook through gently, keeping it juicy instead of dry or tough.

One good thing about the chicken burrito recipe, and burrito in general, is that you can make it ahead and then store it. This way, you can cook your favorite burrito when you have time, store it in your fridge, and reheat it whenever you are hungry.

If you plan to eat the burritos in a short time, you can just wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and put them in the refrigerator. This way, they can last up to 3 days. If you want to keep the burrito for a longer time, you can wrap each burrito in foil, put it in a freezer bag, and then keep it in your freezer. Your burrito can last up to two months.

To reheat the burritos, remove foil if frozen and wrap the burrito in a damp paper towel. Heat it in the microwave until warm. For a firmer texture, reheat it in a pan on low heat, turning it slowly.

A chicken burrito recipe becomes even more enjoyable with the right dipping sauce. Sauces add extra flavor and moisture without changing the main filling.

1. Salsa Roja: This sauce adds a warm and slightly spicy flavor that pairs well with chicken, rice, and beans inside a burrito.

2. Sour Cream: A smooth and cooling sauce that balances spices and adds a creamy texture to every bite of the burrito.

3. Guacamole: Made from mashed avocado, this dip brings a rich and creamy taste that matches perfectly with seasoned chicken.

4. Yogurt Lime Sauce: A light sauce with yogurt and lime juice that adds freshness and gentle tang without overpowering the burrito.

5. Mild Cheese Sauce: This warm and creamy sauce adds comfort and extra richness, making the chicken burrito taste more filling.