This recipe takes the classic chicken burrito to the next level with a rich, savory smothered chicken sauce. Forget dry, bland burritos – this recipe delivers a flavor explosion in every bite! Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a fun weekend meal, this smothered chicken burrito is sure to become a family favorite.
What Makes This Smothered Chicken Burrito Recipe So Special?
This recipe stands out because it focuses on creating a deeply flavorful smothered chicken. We're not just throwing chicken and some sauce together; we're building layers of flavor with a blend of spices and a rich, creamy sauce. The result is a juicy, tender chicken that's completely irresistible. The burrito itself is generously filled, ensuring maximum satisfaction with every bite.
Ingredients:
For the Smothered Chicken:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) can diced tomatoes and green chilies (Rotel), undrained
- 1 (10 oz) can cream of mushroom soup
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Burritos:
- 12 large flour tortillas
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite cheese blend)
- Your favorite burrito toppings (sour cream, salsa, guacamole, etc.)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Smothered Chicken:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
- Add onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and green chilies, cream of mushroom soup, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
- Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Assemble the Burritos:
- Warm tortillas according to package directions.
- Spread a layer of cooked rice on each tortilla.
- Top with smothered chicken, black beans, and shredded cheese.
- Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll tightly from one end to the other.
3. Serve:
- Serve immediately with your favorite burrito toppings. You can also bake the burritos in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese further.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! Kidney beans, pinto beans, or a mix of beans would all work well in this recipe. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite combination.
How can I make this recipe spicier?
For a spicier kick, add more cayenne pepper, or include a chopped jalapeño pepper with the onions and garlic. You could also use a spicier variety of diced tomatoes and green chilies.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! The smothered chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before assembling the burritos. The burritos themselves can also be assembled ahead of time and baked or microwaved when ready to serve.
What kind of tortillas should I use?
Flour tortillas are traditional for burritos, but you could also use corn tortillas if preferred. Just be aware that corn tortillas may be more prone to breaking when rolling.
Are there any healthier alternatives for this recipe?
To make this recipe healthier, you can use low-sodium cream of mushroom soup, reduce the amount of cheese, and use whole wheat tortillas. You can also substitute some of the chicken broth with water to reduce the overall sodium content.
This smothered chicken burrito recipe is a delicious and satisfying meal that's easy to customize to your liking. Enjoy!
