Cheesy Ground Chicken Burritos

Cheesy ground chicken and rice burritos are my answer to a quick weeknight dinner that leaves everyone at the table happy. With a savory mix of juicy ground chicken, fluffy rice, tender peppers and onions, tangy salsa verde, and a gooey double layer of cheese, these burritos deliver bold flavor and comforting texture in every bite. Easy to assemble and deeply satisfying, this recipe is perfect when you crave homemade comfort with minimal fuss.

The first time I made these burritos I was trying to use up leftover rice and a pack of ground chicken and now I keep extra tortillas in the freezer just for this recipe.

Ingredients

• Avocado oil or olive oil: Brings a subtle richness and prevents sticking Choose fresh oil for best flavor
• Ground chicken: Lean yet juicy and picks up seasoning beautifully Freshly ground gives best texture
• Red bell pepper: Adds a sweet crunch and beautiful color Look for firm and shiny peppers
• White onion: Gives a base of sweetness and depth Choose onions that feel heavy for their size
• Jalapeño pepper: Brings gentle heat and zing to the filling Optional but highly recommended for some kick
• Garlic powder: Lends classic savory notes Use a fresh container for maximum aroma
• Chili powder: Delivers warm earthy flavor Opt for a blend with smoked paprika if possible
• Kosher salt or sea salt: Balances and enhances other flavors Use larger flakes for more control
• Ground cumin: Gives the filling its classic Tex Mex warmth Always best to use freshly ground when possible
• Cooked rice: Helps bind the filling and adds heartiness White or brown rice both work
• Salsa verde or your favorite salsa: The tangy brightness lifts the dish Look for brands with minimal added sugar
• Chipotle sauce: Sizzles with smoky heat and richness Chipotles in adobo can be finely minced as an alternative
• Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a flavorful blanket of goo Use sharp cheddar for bolder taste
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Balances the cheddar with smooth melt Choose freshly shredded for best texture
• Extra large flour tortillas: Soft tender wraps that hold everything together Buy burrito sized and look for pliability

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the Filling:

Heat oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat Once hot add ground chicken red bell pepper white onion and jalapeño with a pinch of salt Use a spoon or spatula to break up the chicken as it cooks Stir frequently and let cook for about eight minutes until chicken is cooked through and veggies are starting to soften but not brown This step creates the flavorful base of your burrito filling

Add Seasonings:

Sprinkle garlic powder chili powder salt and cumin over the mixture Stir and cook for another two minutes The seasoning will stick to the chicken and veggies and warm up in the oil unlocking their full flavor and aroma

Mix in Rice and Sauces:

Add cooked rice salsa verde and chipotle sauce to the skillet Stir everything thoroughly so each grain of rice and piece of meat is coated Even out the filling and give it a quick taste adjusting salt if needed Once blended turn off the heat so the rice stays fluffy

Assemble the Burritos:

Lay one tortilla on a flat surface Sprinkle one quarter cup of each cheese down the center Place a heaping half cup of the filling on top Then add another quarter cup of each cheese over the meat Fold the tortilla sides over the filling and roll tightly tucking everything in You will end up with a snug burrito with cheese on either side of the filling

Toast the Burritos:

Place the burrito seam side down in a clean nonstick skillet over medium heat Toast until golden and crispy about one to two minutes Carefully flip and toast the other side This melts the cheese and gives the tortilla a satisfying crunch

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve hot Slice in half if you like Serve with sour cream guacamole salsa or chips and refried beans for a full meal

Save

I love using Monterey Jack cheese in these burritos as it melts into gooey stretchy perfection and brings back memories of making quesadillas with my parents on Saturday afternoons

Storage Tips

Leftover burritos keep well tightly wrapped in foil or plastic in the fridge for up to three days When reheating toast them in a pan to revive that crispy exterior If you want to freeze them wrap each burrito in foil then plastic Freeze for up to two months and reheat straight from frozen either in the oven or in a covered pan

Ingredient Substitutions

Ground turkey or lean ground beef both work in place of ground chicken No rice No problem Try cooked quinoa or even cauliflower rice for a lower carb swap Any bell pepper color adds flavor so use what you have If spicy is not your thing skip the jalapeño and chipotle sauce A mild salsa can stand in for salsa verde

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burritos with a side of creamy refried beans for an extra hearty meal Freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime over the top bring out all the Tex Mex flavors If you want crunch toss in a little shredded lettuce and fresh tomato just before rolling

Cultural and Historical Context

Burritos are a beloved Tex Mex creation with roots in Mexican cuisine but adapted through generations of home cooks Shredded cheese and seasoned rice are American twists that make these burritos especially comforting and kid friendly The beauty is in the flexibility and the way they stretch simple ingredients into a satisfying meal

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use a different protein instead of chicken?

Yes, ground turkey or lean beef can be swapped for ground chicken with equally delicious results. Adjust seasonings to taste.

→ What rice works best for this dish?

White or brown rice, either freshly cooked or leftover, works well. Ensure rice isn't wet to avoid soggy tortillas.

→ How do I prevent the tortillas from tearing?

Warm tortillas briefly before filling to increase flexibility, and avoid overfilling to ensure easy rolling and toasting.

→ Are these burritos spicy?

The level of heat comes from jalapeño and chipotle sauce. For a milder meal, omit these or use mild salsa.

→ Can I prepare these ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate for up to a day before toasting. Reheat burritos in a skillet or oven for best texture.