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 Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe With Creamy Cheese Sauce

Name: Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Prep time: PT-489619H29M10S
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)

Description

🌯 Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors of Smothered Chicken Burritos topped with a creamy, cheesy green chili sauce.
🔥 This recipe combines tender slow-cooked chicken with melted cheese for a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Ingredients

Scale

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)

Instructions

1-First, lay out your 6 large burrito-sized tortillas and place about 1/2 cup of the prepared chicken filling on each one.

2-Top the chicken with shredded cheese, then fold the ends and roll them tightly to seal.

3-Place the burritos seam side down on the prepared rack and lightly brush or spray both sides with olive oil or nonstick spray.

4-Bake for 18-20 minutes, flipping halfway through, and consider a quick broil for extra crispiness on both sides.

5-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.

6-Gradually add the warmed chicken broth and spices, simmering until thickened, about 2-3 minutes.

7-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.

8-Finally, serve the burritos smothered in the warm sauce, topped with tomatoes, avocados, cilantro, or tortilla chips for added flair.

Notes

🌮 Use uncooked or raw tortillas for crispier burritos.
🕒 Make the shredded chicken and sauce ahead for quicker assembly.
❄️ Freeze baked burritos individually; reheat in air fryer or oven for best texture.

Additional: Store sauce separately as it doesn’t freeze well. Consider adding beans, rice, or veggies to the filling for extra flavor and nutrition.

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Slow Cooker Time: 3 to 4 hours
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking, Slow Cooking
Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 burrito with sauce
Calories: 650 kcal
Sugar: 4 g
Sodium: 900 mg
Fat: 30 g
Saturated Fat: 15 g
Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 55 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 40 g
Cholesterol: 110 mg

Keywords: Smothered Chicken Burritos, Creamy Sauce Burritos, Cheesy Chicken Burritos, Baked Mexican Burritos