Craving that incredible Cafe Rio burrito experience but don't have time for a trip? This homemade Cafe Rio burrito recipe brings the delicious flavors of Utah right to your kitchen! It's surprisingly easy to make, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, or a fun weekend project. Get ready to experience the magic of perfectly seasoned chicken, creamy cilantro-lime rice, and all the delicious fixings – all from the comfort of your home. This recipe offers a healthy and delicious alternative to takeout, making it a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet (1 oz) Ranch Seasoning Mix
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/4 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Cilantro-Lime Rice:
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Burritos:
- 12 large flour tortillas
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- Your favorite toppings: shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheese, sour cream or Mexican crema, salsa
Instructions:
Preparing the Chicken:
- Cut the chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes.
- Stir in the ranch seasoning mix, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for another minute, allowing the spices to bloom and coat the chicken.
Making the Cilantro-Lime Rice:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Combine the rice and chicken broth in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
Assembling the Burritos:
- Warm the tortillas according to package directions. You can heat them in a dry skillet, microwave, or oven.
- Lay a tortilla flat. Add a layer of rice, chicken, black beans, corn, and your desired toppings.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up tightly.
- Repeat with the remaining tortillas and fillings.
Tips for the Best Cafe Rio Burritos:
- Don't overcrowd the skillet: When cooking the chicken, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and browns properly.
- Fresh cilantro is key: The fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbaceous flavor to the rice that is essential to replicating that Cafe Rio taste.
- Warm your tortillas: Warm tortillas are more pliable and less likely to break when rolling.
- Customize your fillings: Feel free to add other fillings like shredded carrots, guacamole, or pickled onions. The possibilities are endless!
Variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Substitute the chicken with your favorite vegetarian protein like seasoned black beans, mushrooms, or tofu.
- Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce to the chicken for extra heat.
- Shredded Chicken: For a more traditional Cafe Rio feel, shred the cooked chicken with two forks before adding it to the burritos.
Nutritional Information (per burrito, approximate):
This will vary depending on the ingredients and portion sizes used. Consider using a nutrition calculator for a more precise estimate based on your specific ingredients. Generally, expect a burrito to be a moderate-to-high calorie meal, with a good source of protein and carbohydrates.
This homemade Cafe Rio burrito recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a restaurant-quality meal at home. It's a quick, easy, and delicious recipe that the whole family will love. Enjoy!