If you’re a burrito lover, you’re in for a treat! Introducing the delectable Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos, a recipe that combines flavor, comfort, and convenience all into one delicious package. Imagine biting into a warm, cheesy burrito filled with tender, slow-cooked Mexican chicken and drizzled with a creamy green chili sour cream sauce. This dish isn’t just about the taste; it’s about being able to whip up a hearty meal in no time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you have guests over, these burritos satisfy both hunger and cravings for comfort food.
Let’s face it; cooking doesn’t have to be hard to be delicious. With the Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos recipe, you can create a show-stopping dish without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of flavors in the burrito’s filling and the rich, cheesy sauce makes it an instant family favorite. Whether you enjoy a casual dinner or a great party dish, these burritos will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
- Flavorful Filling: The slow-cooked Mexican chicken is infused with spices and is incredibly tasty.
- Creamy Sauce: The cheesy green chili sour cream sauce elevates the burritos, bringing them to the next level.
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe combines simple cooking techniques with minimal prep time.
- Customizable: Add your favorite toppings to tailor the dish to your preference.
- Great for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time for an easy weeknight dinner.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you get started, it’s important to prepare your kitchen and gather the necessary tools for making your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos. First things first, make sure you have a slow cooker handy for the Mexican chicken, as it gives the chicken that tender, melt-in-your-mouth quality. You’ll also need a large mixing bowl for assembling the burritos, a baking sheet lined with foil, and a baking rack to ensure your burritos stay crispy while cooking.
Don’t forget measuring cups for portioning the ingredients and a whisk for mixing the sauce smoothly. Keeping your workspace organized will make the cooking process more enjoyable! Prep your ingredients—like shredding the cheese and chopping the vegetables—before starting, so you can focus on enjoying the cooking experience as you bring these burritos to life.
Ingredients
- 1 Recipe Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken
- 6 Burrito-size tortillas (raw or undercooked preferred)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Olive oil or nonstick cooking spray
- For the Cheesy Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 of a 4 oz. can mild chopped green chilies
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Hot sauce to taste (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mexican Chicken
To kick off your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos, you’ll need to prepare the flavorful Mexican chicken. Using your favorite slow cooker chicken recipe, allow the chicken to cook until it’s perfectly tender and infused with all the spices. Make sure to drain any excess liquid after the cooking process. This is crucial as it prevents the burritos from becoming soggy, allowing for a firmer, more enjoyable texture.
Step 2: Preheat the Oven
Once your chicken is ready, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is ideal for achieving a golden brown finish on your burritos. While the oven is heating, line a baking sheet with foil and place a baking rack on top. The rack elevates the burritos, allowing air to circulate, which results in crispy exteriors. No one likes a soggy burrito!
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
It’s time to assemble! Lay out your warm tortillas and take about a ½ cup of the flavorful Mexican chicken filling for each tortilla. Add a generous sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar cheese to elevate the taste. Roll each tortilla tightly, burrito-style, and ensure that they are seam-side down on the baking rack. This will help maintain their shape during baking. For an extra crispy finish, lightly brush each rolled burrito with olive oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray before you pop them in the oven.
Step 4: Bake the Burritos
Place your assembled burritos in the preheated oven and bake for about 18 to 20 minutes, or until they are beautifully golden. If you like them crispier, don’t hesitate to turn on the broiler for a few minutes, watching closely to ensure they don’t burn.
Step 5: Make the Cheesy Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce
As your burritos are baking, start creating the mouthwatering Cheesy Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat, stirring often. Once warmed, whisk in the flour and allow it to cook for about 3 minutes until it turns a light golden color. Slowly add the warmed chicken broth to the roux, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens nicely.
Once thickened, mix in the cumin, salt, and pepper. This will add depth to the flavor profile. Continue stirring for a couple more minutes before removing it from the heat. Stir in the green chilies and shredded cheese until they melt into the sauce. Finally, add the sour cream and hot sauce, adjusting as per your preference.
Step 6: Serve
Once your burritos are out of the oven, drizzle the warm, cheesy green chili sour cream sauce over each. Get creative with your presentation by adding optional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced avocado or guacamole, chopped cilantro, salsa, and crushed tortilla strips for that extra crunch. Serve your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos with a side of rice or a fresh salad to complete the meal. Enjoy!
Variations
- Protein: Swap out chicken for ground beef, turkey, or beans for a vegetarian option.
- Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed bell peppers, onions, or corn into the filling for added flavor and texture.
- Spices: Customize the spice level by adding jalapeños or using spicy taco seasoning in the chicken.
Cooking Notes
- This recipe is easily adaptable; feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients and flavors.
- You can prep the Mexican chicken ahead of time and store it in the fridge, making assembly time quicker when ready to cook.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair the burritos with freshly made guacamole and salsa on the side.
- For a refreshing touch, serve with a simple mixed green salad or Mexican corn salad.
Tips
- Make sure your tortillas are pliable to avoid tearing while rolling; you can warm them slightly if needed.
- Don’t skip the drizzle of sauce—it’s what makes these burritos truly indulgent!
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes (including baking)
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
- Protein: 30g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
Can I prepare these burritos in advance?
Absolutely! You can assemble the burritos ahead of time, cover them, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake them.
Can I freeze the burritos?
Yes, you can freeze assembled burritos. Wrap them tightly in foil and store them in a freezer bag. Bake them directly from frozen—just increase the baking time by about 10 minutes.
Can I use a different type of cheese?
Of course! Feel free to use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or any cheese that melts well.
What can I substitute for sour cream?
You can use Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative or any dairy-free sour cream for a vegan option.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are the ultimate comfort food. With their rich flavors and gooey cheese, they are sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. The best part is their versatility, allowing for countless variations to suit your taste. Whether you’re making them for a busy weeknight meal or for entertaining guests, these burritos are guaranteed to impress. We encourage you to try this recipe, experiment with different ingredients, and make it your own! Let us know how it turned out for you or share your favorite toppings in the comments below!
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Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are the ultimate comfort food, combining rich flavors and gooey cheese for an irresistible dish.
Ingredients
- 1 Recipe Slow Cooker Mexican Chicken
- 6 Burrito-size tortillas (raw or undercooked preferred)
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Olive oil or nonstick cooking spray
- For the Cheesy Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth, warmed
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 of a 4 oz. can mild chopped green chilies
- 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- Hot sauce to taste (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Mexican Chicken: Cook your Mexican chicken in a slow cooker until tender, draining excess liquid.
- Preheat the Oven: Set to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil and a rack.
- Assemble the Burritos: Fill tortillas with ½ cup chicken and cheese, roll tightly, and place seam-side down.
- Bake the Burritos: Cook in the oven for 18-20 minutes until golden; use broiler for extra crispiness.
- Make the Cheesy Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce: Heat oil and butter, whisk in flour, then chicken broth until thick; stir in seasonings and cheese.
- Serve: Drizzle sauce over burritos, add toppings, and enjoy with rice or salad.
Notes
This recipe is easily adaptable; feel free to mix and match your favorite ingredients and flavors.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Dinner
Nutrition
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Protein: 30 g