Craving a flavorful and satisfying dinner that won't keep you chained to the kitchen all evening? Look no further! This simple chicken burrito recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. It's packed with delicious ingredients, easy to customize, and ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready to enjoy a homemade, healthy meal that tastes like it came from your favorite Mexican restaurant, but without the hefty price tag!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp chili powder (optional, for extra spice)
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
- 1 cup salsa (your favorite kind!)
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your preferred cheese)
- 6-8 large burrito-size tortillas
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt (for topping, optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides. Sprinkle with taco seasoning and chili powder (if using). Pour in the water, bring to a simmer, and cook until the chicken is cooked through and easily shreds with a fork (about 10-15 minutes). Remove from heat and shred the chicken with two forks.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, and salsa. Mix well to combine all the flavors.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Warm the tortillas according to package instructions (you can microwave them briefly, heat them in a dry skillet, or even wrap them in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds). Lay a tortilla flat, add about 1/2 cup of the chicken mixture down the center, top with diced avocado and shredded cheese.
Step 4: Roll and Serve
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then fold the bottom edge over the filling. Tightly roll the burrito away from you. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling. Serve immediately with sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired.
Tips for the Best Burritos:
- Don't overfill: Overstuffed burritos are difficult to roll and can easily fall apart.
- Warm your tortillas properly: This prevents them from cracking or tearing while rolling.
- Use high-quality ingredients: The flavor of your burritos will be directly impacted by the quality of ingredients you use.
- Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different salsas, cheeses, and add-ins like lettuce, tomatoes, or onions.
Variations:
- Spicy Chicken Burritos: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped jalapeños to the chicken mixture for extra heat.
- Vegetarian Burritos: Replace the chicken with seasoned black beans, lentils, or your favorite vegetables.
- Breakfast Burritos: Add scrambled eggs, breakfast sausage, and cheese for a hearty breakfast burrito.
Nutritional Information (per burrito, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 400-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This simple chicken burrito recipe is a perfect example of healthy meals that are easy to prepare. It’s a quick dinner idea, a great homemade meal option, and provides a delicious and satisfying dish perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy!