Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe With Creamy Cheese Sauce

Name: Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Prep time: PT-489617H19M26S
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 3 h 50 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 6 large burrito-sized tortillas; 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend like Monterrey or Pepper Jack); Olive oil or nonstick cooking spray for brushing or spraying; shredded chicken mixed with salsa and spices (about 2-3 cups prepared chicken to fill 6 burritos); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon butter; 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour; 2 cups warmed low sodium chicken broth; 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin; 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili powder; 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder; 1/2 cup sour cream; 1/2 (4-ounce) can mild chopped green chilies; 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese; Hot sauce to taste (optional)

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Why You’ll Love This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

Imagine biting into a warm, crispy burrito filled with tender, slow-cooked Mexican shredded chicken, all topped with a creamy cheesy sauce that melts in your mouth. This recipe for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos is a hit for busy weeknights because it combines ease and flavor in one dish. With just about 30 minutes of active prep and baking time, not counting the slow cooker for the chicken, you can serve up six hearty portions that satisfy everyone at the table.

One of the best parts is how this recipe balances nutrition with taste, using lean chicken packed with protein to keep you full and energized. You can easily tweak it for different dietary needs, like swapping in veggies or alternative proteins without losing that delicious smothered goodness. Whether you’re a home cook looking for something exciting or a busy parent needing a quick meal, these burritos bring joy to your kitchen and create those memorable family moments.

Beyond the simple steps, what makes Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos stand out is their rich flavor profile from the seasoned chicken and creamy sauce. The baking process locks in moisture and adds a delightful crispness that elevates ordinary dinners. It’s versatile enough to become your go-to recipe for gatherings or solo meals, proving that good food doesn’t have to be complicated.

Key Benefits at a Glance

Quick and easy preparation makes it ideal for weeknights.
Loaded with nutrients from lean protein and fresh add-ins.
Adaptable for various diets, ensuring everyone can enjoy it.
Delivers bold flavors that make every bite exciting.

To learn more about the health benefits of chicken, which is a star in this recipe, check out this helpful resource.

Jump To

1. Why You’ll Love This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
2. Essential Ingredients for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
3. How to Prepare the Perfect Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos: Step-by-Step Guide
4. Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
5. Mastering Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos: Advanced Tips and Variations
6. How to Store Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos: Best Practices
7. FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
8. Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

Essential Ingredients for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating those irresistible Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos. This recipe focuses on fresh, simple items that come together to make a meal that’s both comforting and flavorful. You’ll need to prepare the Mexican shredded chicken ahead, either in a slow cooker with spices, salsa, and broth, or by mixing pre-cooked chicken with salsa for a faster option.

Below is a comprehensive list of all the ingredients required, pulled directly from the recipe details. I’ve formatted it as a structured list to make it easy to follow, with precise measurements for each item. This ensures you have everything on hand without any guesswork.

Main Ingredients

6 large burrito-sized tortillas (preferably uncooked, found in the refrigerated section)
1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese (or a Mexican cheese blend like Monterrey or Pepper Jack)
Olive oil or nonstick cooking spray (amount as needed for brushing or spraying)

Ingredients for Mexican Shredded Chicken

Ingredients vary based on preparation method, but typically include shredded chicken mixed with salsa and spices (precise measurements depend on your chosen recipe, but aim for about 2-3 cups prepared chicken to fill 6 burritos)

Ingredients for Cheesy Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups warmed low sodium chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 cup sour cream
1/2 (4-ounce) can mild chopped green chilies (adjust to taste)
1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
Hot sauce to taste (optional, amount as desired)

For more details on cheddar cheese nutrition, which adds that perfect melty touch, you can explore this site. Remember, these ingredients yield 6 servings and can be adjusted for optional add-ins like black beans or bell peppers to customize your burritos.

How to Prepare the Perfect Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos: Step-by-Step Guide

Getting ready to make Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos is all about following a few straightforward steps that lead to a mouthwatering result. Start by preparing your Mexican shredded chicken and draining any excess liquid to keep things from getting soggy. This sets the stage for a crispy bake that everyone will love.

Preheat your oven to 400°F (204°C) and line a baking sheet with foil, adding a rack on top for even crisping. Now, let’s dive into the assembly and baking process, which takes about 30 minutes of active time. By the end, you’ll have golden-brown burritos smothered in that creamy sauce, ready to serve with fresh toppings.

First, lay out your 6 large burrito-sized tortillas and place about 1/2 cup of the prepared chicken filling on each one.
Top the chicken with shredded cheese, then fold the ends and roll them tightly to seal.
Place the burritos seam side down on the prepared rack and lightly brush or spray both sides with olive oil or nonstick spray.
Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, and consider a quick broil for extra crispiness on both sides.
While the burritos bake, prepare the sauce: Melt the butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat, whisk in the flour, and cook for 3 minutes.
Gradually add the warmed chicken broth and spices, simmering until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.
Remove from heat, stir in the green chilies and cheese until melted, then mix in the sour cream and hot sauce if you like it spicy.
Finally, serve the burritos smothered in the warm sauce, topped with tomatoes, avocados, cilantro, or tortilla chips for added flair.

This method ensures your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos turn out perfectly every time. For a similar chicken dish, check out our roasted red pepper and spinach stuffed chicken recipe for more inspiration.

Dietary Substitutions to Customize Your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

One of the joys of Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos is how easy it is to adapt for different tastes and needs. If you’re watching your diet, you can swap proteins or add veggies to make it just right. This flexibility keeps the dish exciting and inclusive for everyone from vegans to those seeking lighter options.

For protein alternatives, try using seasoned jackfruit or tofu in place of chicken for a vegan twist. You can also add roasted peppers or corn to boost the vegetable content while keeping that hearty flavor. Experimenting with these changes helps maintain the recipe’s core appeal without much effort.

Protein and Main Component Alternatives

Use seasoned jackfruit, tofu, or tempeh to replace chicken for vegan options.
Substitute shredded turkey or lean beef for a different protein profile.

Vegetable, Sauce, and Seasoning Modifications

Add roasted peppers, zucchini, or corn for seasonal or preference-based vegetable variations.
Experiment with chipotle sauce or red enchilada sauce instead of the green chili sauce for different flavor profiles.
Adjust seasoning with cumin, smoked paprika, or cilantro lime for extra zest.

These substitutions make the recipe versatile, perfect for busy parents or health-conscious eaters. For another customizable option, try our chicken taco casserole recipe.

Mastering Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos: Advanced Tips and Variations

Once you’re comfortable with the basics of Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos, it’s time to level up with some pro tips. Lightly toasting your tortillas before assembly helps prevent sogginess and adds an extra crunch. You can also finish with a broiler for that golden-brown top that makes the dish irresistible.

Flavor variations are endless, like adding black beans or chorizo for a southwestern kick. Making the chicken and sauce ahead of time saves even more prep, and you can freeze assembled burritos for easy reheating in an air fryer or oven. These tweaks ensure your meals stay fresh and convenient.

Pro Tips for Better Results

Tips	Benefits
Use raw tortillas	Enhances crispness during baking
Prepare ahead	Saves time and maintains flavor
Freeze individually	Allows for quick, reheated meals

For the best results, remember that the sauce doesn strawberries well, so store it separately for freshness.

How to Store Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos: Best Practices

Proper storage keeps your Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos tasting great for days or even months. After baking, let them cool before refrigerating in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days. This simple step helps preserve that crispy texture and flavorful filling.

For longer-term options, wrap them tightly and freeze for up to 2 months, but keep the sauce separate as it doesn’t freeze well. When you’re ready to eat, reheat in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes to keep everything moist and delicious. These practices make meal prep a breeze for working professionals or students.

Storage Options

Refrigerate in airtight containers for up to 3-4 days.
Freeze wrapped burritos for up to 2 months.
Reheat in the oven for even results.

FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions About Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

What makes a smothered baked chicken burrito different from a regular burrito?

A smothered baked chicken burrito is distinct because it is covered in a savory sauce, such as red or green chili, and then baked, which allows the flavors to meld and the cheese to melt thoroughly. Unlike regular burritos that are typically served fresh and dry, smothered burritos have a saucy, tender texture and a rich, warm flavor from baking. The sauce added after rolling up the burrito creates a moist and hearty dish common in Mexican and Tex-Mex cooking.

Can I use flour or corn tortillas for smothered chicken burritos?

Flour tortillas are generally recommended for smothered chicken burritos because they are larger and more pliable, which makes rolling and wrapping the fillings easier. They also hold up better during baking and when covered in sauce. Corn tortillas are smaller and more fragile, better suited for enchiladas rather than smothered burritos, but they can be used if softened properly before rolling.

How do I prevent my smothered burrito from becoming soggy after baking?

To avoid sogginess, slightly crisp the tortillas on a dry skillet before assembling the burritos. This creates a barrier that helps prevent the sauce from soaking through too quickly. Also, avoid overloading the burrito with wet ingredients like salsa. Bake the burritos uncovered just long enough for the sauce to heat through and the cheese to melt, keeping the tortilla texture intact.

What are good side dishes to serve with smothered baked chicken burritos?

Popular side dishes to complement smothered baked chicken burritos include Mexican rice, refried or black beans, fresh guacamole, and a simple salad with lime dressing. Adding a side of chips and salsa or corn on the cob with a sprinkle of chili powder provides additional flavor variety. These sides balance the richness of the smothered burrito and complete a satisfying meal.

Can I make smothered baked chicken burritos ahead of time and reheat them?

Yes, smothered baked chicken burritos can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage. When reheating, cover the burritos with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through to maintain moisture and evenly melt the cheese. Reheating in the microwave may be quicker but risks uneven heating and sogginess.

Smothered Chicken Burritos with Creamy Sauce and Melted Cheese