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Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
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Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender shredded chicken, gooey melted cheese, and vibrant sauces wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this versatile recipe offers customizable spicy and mild options, making it a family-friendly favorite that keeps well for leftovers and can be easily made ahead.

Ingredients

Scale

Filling Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup black beans or refried beans
  • 1 cup cheese blend (cheddar and Monterey Jack), shredded
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ cup salsa or enchilada sauce
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Assembly Ingredients

  • 6–8 flour tortillas
  • ½ to 1 cup salsa or enchilada sauce (for topping)
  • ½ cup extra shredded cheese (cheddar and Monterey Jack blend)

Optional Variations

  • Chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (for spicy chipotle variation)
  • Grilled vegetables (for vegetarian option)
  • Green chile salsa (replace red sauce for green chile and cheese variation)
  • Cream cheese or queso fresco (for extra cheesy version)
  • Low-carb tortillas and cauliflower rice (for low-carb option)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the filling: In a large bowl, combine cooked shredded chicken, cooked rice, beans, cheese blend, cumin, chili powder, and ½ cup salsa or enchilada sauce. Mix thoroughly to keep the mixture juicy and flavorful.
  2. Assemble the burritos: Warm tortillas slightly to make them pliable. Lay each tortilla flat and spoon an even amount of filling down the center. Fold the sides inward and roll tightly to enclose all ingredients securely.
  3. Arrange in a baking dish: Grease a baking dish and place the rolled burritos seam side down to prevent unrolling during baking.
  4. Smother with sauce and cheese: Pour additional salsa or enchilada sauce generously over the burritos. Sprinkle with extra shredded cheese for a rich, melted topping.
  5. Bake to perfection: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the burritos for 20-25 minutes until the cheese is bubbly, melted, and slightly golden on top.

Notes

  • Use warm tortillas to prevent tearing and make rolling easier.
  • Do not overfill the burritos to ensure they seal properly.
  • Layer sauces inside and on top of the burritos for maximum flavor and moisture.
  • Cover the baking dish with foil during the first half of baking to keep burritos soft and prevent drying out.
  • Garnish with fresh chopped cilantro or green onions just before serving for brightness.

Nutrition

Keywords: Smothered Chicken Burritos, Baked Burritos, Mexican Comfort Food, Easy Weeknight Dinner, Cheesy Burritos, Make-Ahead Meal

Find it online: https://cherrycooks.com/smothered-baked-chicken-burritos/