Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos have become my go-to for a reason: they’re incredibly satisfying and surprisingly simple. I remember the first time I made them, the aroma of the creamy, cheesy sauce bubbling in the oven filled my kitchen, promising pure comfort. These aren’t just any chicken burritos; they’re a warm hug in tortilla form. If you’re looking for truly easy weeknight chicken burritos that taste like they took hours, you’ve come to the right place. They’ve saved me more times than I can count when I needed a delicious, no-fuss meal. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Get ready to fall in love with these amazing burritos! They’re packed with flavor and perfect for any occasion.
- The taste is absolutely divine – tender chicken wrapped in a creamy, cheesy sauce that’s pure comfort food.
- You’ll love how quick they are to prepare, making them ideal for easy weeknight chicken burritos.
- Packed with protein from the chicken, these are a satisfying and wholesome choice for dinner.
- They’re incredibly budget-friendly, especially if you use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken.
- This recipe is a guaranteed hit with the whole family; it’s a crowd-pleasing meal that everyone will ask for.
- As easy smothered chicken burritos, they require minimal effort but deliver maximum deliciousness.
- The baked method creates a wonderful texture, making them a delightful alternative to fried burritos.
- They’re versatile and easy to customize with your favorite toppings!
Smothered Chicken Burrito Ingredients
Gathering your smothered chicken burrito ingredients is a breeze, and I’ll walk you through why each one makes these smothered baked chicken burritos so special. The key to that amazing creamy sauce is the blend of 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, which provides a rich base, and 1/2 cup sour cream for a lovely tang and creaminess. We’ll also use 1 cup salsa for a little kick and depth of flavor. For the filling, you’ll need 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken – rotisserie chicken is my secret shortcut! Then, we have 4 large flour tortillas ready to be stuffed. To get that irresistible cheesy topping, grab 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack). Finally, for that signature flavor, we’ll add 1 teaspoon chili powder and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Fresh cilantro for garnish is optional but highly recommended!
How to Make Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Let’s get these delicious smothered baked chicken burritos in the oven! The process is straightforward, and soon your kitchen will smell amazing.
- Step 1: First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). While that’s heating up, lightly grease a baking dish so nothing sticks.
- Step 2: In a medium bowl, I like to combine the base of our creamy sauce: the 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup, 1/2 cup sour cream, 1 cup salsa, 1 teaspoon chili powder, and 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder. Give it a good stir until it’s all smooth and fragrant.
- Step 3: Now, for the filling! In a separate bowl, I mix my 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken with about half of that creamy sauce mixture. You want to make sure every piece of chicken is coated in that deliciousness. This is a key part of the smothered baked chicken burrito instructions.
- Step 4: Time to assemble! Lay out your 4 large flour tortillas. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture into the center of each one, then sprinkle a good portion of your 1 cup shredded cheese over the chicken.
- Step 5: Roll them up snugly, tucking in the sides, and place them seam-side down in your prepared baking dish. This helps them hold their shape during baking.
- Step 6: Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the tops of the rolled burritos. It should look wonderfully saucy! Then, sprinkle the rest of that glorious shredded cheese over the sauce.
- Step 7: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for 25 minutes. This steams them perfectly, ensuring the chicken is heated through and the flavors meld.
- Step 8: After 25 minutes, carefully remove the foil. Pop them back into the oven for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and has a lovely golden-brown hue. The aroma at this stage is incredible!
- Step 9: Once they’re golden and bubbly, carefully remove the dish from the oven. Let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Following these smothered baked chicken burrito instructions ensures a fantastic meal.
- Step 10: Serve your hot and saucy masterpieces immediately. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a lovely pop of color and freshness, completing these amazing smothered baked chicken burritos.
Pro Tips for the Best Smothered Chicken Burritos
I’ve learned a few tricks over the years to make these smothered baked chicken burritos truly exceptional. Follow these tips for guaranteed deliciousness!
- For tender, flavorful chicken, dice or shred it while it’s still warm.
- Don’t skip the resting time after baking; it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Using a good quality salsa can make a big difference in the overall taste profile.
- For an extra cheesy kick, mix some cheese into the chicken filling before assembling.
- Consider toasting your tortillas lightly before filling them for added texture.
What’s the secret to perfect Smothered chicken burritos?
The secret lies in the creamy sauce and not overcrowding the pan. Using a pre-made sauce base with added salsa and sour cream ensures moisture. If your chicken burritos are bland, it’s often due to not enough seasoning in the filling or sauce. For more flavor inspiration, check out these latest recipes.
Can I make Smothered chicken burritos ahead of time?
Yes, you absolutely can! Assemble the burritos up to 24 hours in advance and store them covered in the refrigerator. Just add about 5-10 minutes to the initial covered baking time.
How do I avoid common mistakes with Chicken burrito bake ideas?
A common mistake is overfilling the tortillas, which can cause them to burst. Also, be sure not to bake them uncovered for too long, or the edges can become dry. Always use enough sauce to generously cover the top. For more baking tips, you might find this guide on baking techniques helpful.
Best Ways to Serve Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
These smothered baked chicken burritos are a meal in themselves, but they pair wonderfully with a few simple sides to create a complete and satisfying experience. Think of them as the ultimate comfort food chicken burritos, perfect for a cozy night in. I love serving them with a side of fluffy Mexican rice or creamy refried beans – they soak up that extra sauce beautifully! A simple side salad with a zesty lime dressing or some fresh guacamole adds a nice contrast to the rich, cheesy burritos. Don’t forget a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top for an extra touch of deliciousness. You might also enjoy our old-fashioned potato salad as a side.
Nutrition Facts for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Let’s break down what makes these smothered baked chicken burritos so satisfying. A single serving is packed with flavor and energy.
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 950mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used. For more healthy options, explore our keto recipes.
How to Store and Reheat Smothered Chicken Burritos
One of the best things about this smothered chicken burrito casserole is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep. Once baked, let the burritos cool down completely on a wire rack. This helps prevent sogginess. For refrigeration, place the cooled burritos in an airtight container. They’ll stay delicious in the fridge for about 3 to 4 days. If you want to store them for longer, freezing is a great option. Wrap individual burritos tightly in plastic wrap, then in aluminum foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To reheat, you can pop them straight from the fridge or freezer into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). For refrigerated burritos, bake covered for about 15-20 minutes, then uncovered for 5-10 minutes until heated through. Frozen burritos will need a bit longer, around 30-40 minutes covered, then 10-15 minutes uncovered. For more meal prep ideas, check out our sticky chicken rice bowls.
Frequently Asked Questions About Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
What are smothered chicken burritos?
What are smothered chicken burritos? They’re a delicious twist on the classic, where fully assembled burritos are covered in a rich, creamy sauce and often topped with cheese, then baked until bubbly and golden. They’re the ultimate comfort food, offering a warm, saucy, and satisfying experience that’s perfect for family dinners.
Can I use different types of meat for these smothered baked chicken burritos?
Absolutely! While this recipe calls for chicken, you can easily adapt it. Shredded pork or even seasoned ground beef works wonderfully. For a vegetarian option, black beans and corn make a fantastic filling. Just ensure your filling is well-seasoned to complement the creamy sauce.
How do I make my chicken burritos less bland?
If your chicken burritos tend to be bland, the key is building flavor at every step. Start with well-seasoned shredded chicken – don’t be afraid to use spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder in the filling. The sauce also plays a huge role; ensure your salsa and soup base are flavorful, and consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper for a little heat if you like. Using a good quality salsa really makes a difference! For more flavor tips, consider our jalapeno popper sandwich recipe.
What are some good sides to serve with smothered chicken burritos?
These smothered baked chicken burritos are hearty on their own, but they pair beautifully with classic Mexican-inspired sides. I love serving them with a side of Mexican rice, which soaks up any extra sauce, or some simple refried beans. A fresh, crisp salad with a lime vinaigrette or some homemade guacamole also provides a lovely contrast to the rich, cheesy burritos.
Variations of Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos You Can Try
While these smothered baked chicken burritos are fantastic as is, I love getting creative in the kitchen! If you’re looking for ways to switch things up or cater to different needs, here are a few ideas to make your homemade chicken burritos smothered just the way you like them.
- Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for black beans, corn, and sautéed bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Slow Cooker Magic: For an even easier meal, cook your chicken in the slow cooker with salsa and seasonings until tender and shreddable. Then assemble and bake as directed.
- Spicy Kick: If you love heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce mixture, or use a spicy salsa.
- Lighter Option: Use reduced-fat cream of chicken soup and sour cream (or Greek yogurt), and opt for whole wheat tortillas. You can also use a lower-fat cheese blend.
Amazing Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos You Need
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are filled with tender shredded chicken and enveloped in a creamy, cheesy sauce, making them a comforting and delicious family favorite. They are easy to prepare and perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, combine your shredded chicken with half of the creamy sauce mixture and stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Assemble the burritos by placing a generous amount of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top, and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the burritos, then sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the sauce.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
- For added flavor, serve with avocado, salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.
- Consider serving with a crisp salad, guacamole, Mexican rice, or refried beans.
- Can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Choose whole wheat or regular tortillas based on preference.
- Feel free to mix cheeses for added flavor.
- Can substitute cream of mushroom soup if desired.
- Can use Greek yogurt for a lighter sour cream option.
- Choose mild, medium, or hot salsa based on preference.
- Adjust chili powder to taste for spiciness.
- Fresh garlic can also be used instead of garlic powder.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 450 kcal
