As I stirred the sizzling ground chicken, the mouthwatering aroma wrapped around me like a comforting hug. It’s that familiar feeling of home—a moment that takes me back to family dinners filled with laughter and delicious bites. Today, I’m thrilled to share my recipe for Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos. This Tex-Mex delight comes together in a flash, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Not only are these burritos customizable to suit every taste—whether you prefer black beans, ground turkey, or a medley of fresh veggies—but they also serve as a crowd-pleasing option that the whole family will love. With gooey cheese and a touch of spice from fresh jalapeños, these burritos promise to deliver a satisfying, hearty meal. Curious about the creative ways you can make these your own? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are Cheesy Ground Chicken Burritos a must-try?
Flavor Explosion: Every bite bursts with the perfect balance of cheesy goodness and zesty spices, making your taste buds sing.
Customize to Your Taste: With options like black beans or ground turkey, you can tailor these burritos to suit your family’s preferences effortlessly.
Quick and Easy: They come together in under 30 minutes, ensuring that busy weeknights stay stress-free.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch ahead of time and enjoy them throughout the week, just like you would with my Cheesy Chicken Rice recipe.
Crowd-Pleaser: Whether it’s tacos night or a cozy gathering, these burritos will charm your guests and family alike!
Satisfying Textures: Crispy tortilla shells with a soft, cheesy, savory filling create a delightful dining experience, inviting you back for seconds.
Cheesy Ground Chicken Ingredients
• Dive into this delightful mix of flavors and textures!
For the Filling
- Avocado Oil – Provides a healthy fat for cooking; substitute with olive oil if desired.
- Ground Chicken – The main protein, juicy and easy to cook; can be replaced with ground turkey or lean ground beef.
- Red Bell Pepper – Adds sweetness and color to the filling; substitute green bell pepper for less sweetness.
- White Onion – Provides aromatic flavor; yellow onion works beautifully as a substitute.
- Jalapeño Pepper – Adds spice; omit for a milder burrito experience.
- Garlic Powder – Enhances savory taste; fresh garlic can be used as an alternative.
- Chili Powder – Offers depth of flavor and mild heat; adjust quantity based on spice preference.
- Kosher Salt – Enhances all flavors; use sea salt similarly, adjusting to your taste.
- Ground Cumin – Adds a warm, earthy flavor further enriching the dish.
- Cooked Rice – Acts as a heartiness filler; both white and brown rice work well.
For the Sauces
- Salsa Verde – Adds moisture and flavor; can substitute with any salsa or green chiles for a twist.
- Chipotle Sauce – Provides smokiness and spice; substitute with minced chipotles in adobo for similar flavor.
For the Cheese and Tortillas
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Offers creamy texture and flavor; you can substitute with Monterey Jack or a Mexican blend.
- Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese – Adds complementary flavor and melting quality; any cheese that melts well is a great alternative.
- Extra Large Flour Tortillas – Wraps the filling nicely; consider corn tortillas for a gluten-free option.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Ground Chicken
Step 1: Cook Filling
In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground chicken along with 1 chopped red bell pepper, 1 diced white onion, and 1 finely chopped jalapeño. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and the vegetables soften. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is no longer pink and the peppers are tender.
Step 2: Season Filling
Next, stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, allowing the spices to become fragrant. As you do this for the Cheesy Ground Chicken recipe, your kitchen will fill with a wonderful aroma that signifies the deliciousness to come.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now it’s time to bring your filling together! Add in 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 cup of salsa verde, and 2 tablespoons of chipotle sauce. Mix everything thoroughly, and taste to adjust the salt and spice to your liking. The filling should be well-combined and slightly saucy, ensuring that each burrito will be superbly flavorful.
Step 4: Assemble Burritos
Take an extra large flour tortilla and lay it flat on a clean surface. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese in the center, followed by a generous spoonful of your cheesy ground chicken mixture. Top with more cheese for extra gooeyness, then fold in the sides, and roll the tortilla tightly from one end to the other to form a burrito.
Step 5: Toast Burritos
Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and carefully place the assembled burritos seam side down. Toast each side for 2-3 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. You’ll want to watch them closely to prevent burning, and enjoy the delightful crunch as the tortillas turn golden and the cheese melts inside.
Step 6: Serve
Once toasted, remove the burritos from the skillet. Cut them in half and serve warm with sides like sour cream, guacamole, and chips. Each bite of these Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos will delight your family, making any meal truly special!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Ground Chicken
Fridge: Store burritos in an airtight container for up to 4 days. To maintain freshness, allow them to cool completely before sealing.
Freezer: Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, ensuring the cheesy ground chicken is warmed thoroughly.
Cheesy Ground Chicken Variations
Feel free to unleash your creativity with these cheesy delights and make them uniquely your own!
- Black Beans: Add canned black beans for an extra protein boost and a creamy texture that pairs wonderfully with the chicken.
- Ground Turkey: Swap ground chicken for lean ground turkey for a slightly milder flavor that’s equally delicious. It’s a great option for those seeking a lighter source of protein.
- Zucchini: Toss in diced zucchini for a fun and nutritious crunch, adding moisture to your filling without overwhelming the flavor. It’s a lovely way to sneak in more veggies!
- Different Cheeses: Experiment with cheese varieties by trying pepper jack for a spicy twist or a Mexican blend for a bouquet of flavors that will excite your taste buds.
- Corn Variation: Toss in some sweet corn kernels for a pop of sweetness and color that complements the savory filling beautifully. It’s like summer in every bite!
- Brown Rice: Switch out white rice for brown rice for a nuttier flavor and added fiber, making your burritos even more wholesome.
- Jalapeño Salsa: Bring the heat with a spicy jalapeño salsa instead of salsa verde, elevating the flavor profile and intensity of your burrito!
- Grain Bowl Twist: Turn your burrito filling into a grain bowl by serving it over cooked quinoa or cauli-rice, topped with fresh avocado and a squeeze of lime for a refreshing meal.
Explore these scrumptious variations and see which combinations become family favorites! And for more inspired meal ideas, check out my Thai Chicken Wrap with Crunchy Asian Slaw or cozy Chicken Enchiladas Comfort. Enjoy cooking!
What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos
Transform your burrito night into a feast that dances on the palate and comforts the soul.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping, these chips add a satisfying crunch that complements the melty burritos.
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Zesty Salsa Fresca: The bright flavors of fresh tomatoes, onions, and cilantro contrast beautifully with the cheesiness, enhancing every bite.
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Refried Beans: Creamy and earthy, these beans provide a hearty side that pairs well with the spicy kick of the burritos. Served alongside, they make for a delightful texture contrast.
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Guacamole: Its rich, creamy avocado base adds a cooling element, perfectly balancing the spice and bringing a burst of freshness to your meal.
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Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This sweet and spicy grilled corn on the cob creates a flavorful, savory side that encapsulates the essence of Tex-Mex festivities. It’s a must-try for any burrito lover!
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Homemade Cilantro Lime Rice: A zesty and aromatic side that mirrors the flavors of the burrito filling while adding a refreshing twist.
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Margaritas: Complement your meal with a fruity margarita, which can beautifully offset the spices and bring a celebratory vibe to your table.
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Flan: End your meal on a sweet note with this creamy, caramel dessert, providing a delightful contrast to the savory burritos.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos are perfect for meal prep, making your busy weeknights a breeze! You can prepare the filling (ground chicken, vegetables, and spices) up to 3 days in advance; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can assemble the burritos, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before toasting. For longer storage, freeze the assembled burritos for up to 3 months; just cool completely before wrapping. When ready to enjoy, toast the burritos straight from the fridge or freezer, adjusting the cooking time as needed, so every bite is just as delicious as when freshly made!
Tips for the Best Cheesy Ground Chicken Burritos
- Preheat Your Skillet: Make sure your skillet is heated before toasting the burritos to achieve that crispy, golden exterior everyone loves.
- Even Cooking: Break the ground chicken into smaller pieces while cooking; this ensures even cooking and mixing with the veggies.
- Mix and Match: Don’t hesitate to customize your filling! Incorporate black beans or lentils for added protein, and adjust spice levels based on your family’s preferences.
- Creamy and Flavorful: For a creamier filling, mix in some sour cream or Greek yogurt; it elevates the taste and texture of your Cheesy Ground Chicken burritos.
- Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, let them cool completely before storing in the fridge; they can last up to 4 days or be frozen for up to 3 months.
Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos Recipe FAQs
What should I look for when selecting ground chicken?
Absolutely! When choosing ground chicken, look for meat that is pinkish in color without any dark spots or a strong odor. Fresh ground chicken should have a nice, firm texture. If you’re looking for a healthier option, lean ground chicken breast is a great choice, although a mix with dark meat can add extra flavor and juiciness.
How can I store leftover burritos?
Very! To store your Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos, let them cool completely first. Then, place them in an airtight container; they can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy a quick meal anytime without losing flavor or texture!
Can I freeze these burritos, and how?
Of course! To freeze your burritos, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap to prevent freezer burn, and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw the burritos in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
What are some troubleshooting tips if my burritos are soggy or falling apart?
Great question! If your burritos are soggy, it might be due to too much moisture in the filling. To fix this, you could slightly reduce the amount of salsa or chipotle sauce you use. Ensure the rice is drained well if you’re using canned or frozen rice. If they’re falling apart, try adding a little more shredded cheese to help ‘glue’ the ingredients together when you roll them. Make sure to wrap them tightly!
Are there any dietary considerations regarding the ingredients?
Absolutely! If you’re cooking for someone with dietary restrictions, consider using gluten-free corn tortillas instead of flour. For dairy-free options, use non-dairy cheese and omit the cheese altogether, or substitute with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. If allergies are a concern, always double-check labels on processed ingredients like salsa and sauces.
How long will cooked ground chicken last in the fridge?
Typically, cooked ground chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If it’s part of your burritos, ensuring they are sealed properly in an airtight container or wrapped help preserve the flavor and texture for that same duration. Always use your best judgment when it comes to freshness!
Cheesy Ground Chicken Burritos: A Family Favorite Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add 1 pound of ground chicken along with 1 chopped red bell pepper, 1 diced white onion, and 1 finely chopped jalapeño. Cook for 7-8 minutes until the chicken is browned and the vegetables soften.
- Stir in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Continue to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
- Add in 2 cups of cooked rice, 1 cup of salsa verde, and 2 tablespoons of chipotle sauce. Mix everything thoroughly.
- Take an extra large flour tortilla and lay it flat. Sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese, followed by a spoonful of cheesy ground chicken mixture. Fold in the sides and roll tightly.
- Heat a dry skillet over medium heat and place the burritos seam side down. Toast each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown.
- Once toasted, remove the burritos from the skillet. Cut them in half and serve warm.
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