Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

There's nothing quite like the satisfying combination of juicy chicken, melted cheese, and flavorful sauce wrapped up in a warm tortilla. Smothered baked chicken burritos take all the best parts of your favorite Mexican dish and transform them into a hearty, comforting meal the whole family will love.

I discovered this recipe during a search for quick, weeknight-friendly dinners that still pack a punch in flavor. Now, it’s a regular in our household, with everyone eagerly anticipating the bubbling cheese and fragrant aroma wafting from the oven. Let’s dive into what makes this dish so special!

Why You'll Love This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Get ready to meet your new favorite dinner recipe. These smothered baked chicken burritos are everything you love about Tex-Mex cuisine, simplified for a weeknight meal that feels indulgent but comes together effortlessly.

First, it’s all about the flavor. The combination of seasoned, shredded chicken and creamy, tangy enchilada sauce is the perfect match, and the melted cheese topping takes it to the next level.

Second, it’s an easy-to-make recipe that doesn’t skimp on satisfaction. With simple steps like assembling the burritos, smothering them in sauce, and popping them in the oven, you’ll have dinner ready in under an hour.

This dish is also highly adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters, need to use up leftovers, or want to customize the spice level, these burritos are endlessly versatile.

Lastly, the presentation is impressive, with golden, bubbly cheese-covered burritos that look straight out of a restaurant. It’s a show-stopper for guests and an easy way to elevate your weekly dinner routine.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of smothered baked chicken burritos lies in their well-chosen ingredients. Each one contributes to the rich, savory flavors and satisfying textures of the dish.

Tortillas form the base of this recipe. Choose large, burrito-sized flour tortillas for easy wrapping and to hold all the delicious fillings without breaking.

Chicken is the star of the filling. Shredded rotisserie chicken is a convenient option that saves time, but you can also use leftover cooked chicken breast or thighs for a more economical approach.

Enchilada sauce is the key to the smothered topping. Opt for a red enchilada sauce with a flavor profile you love—mild, medium, or hot. You can also mix red and green sauces for a unique twist.

Cheese creates the irresistible melty topping. A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works beautifully, but feel free to use what you have on hand, such as Colby-Jack or even pepper jack for a spicier kick.

Seasonings like cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder enhance the filling’s flavor. Adjust the amounts to suit your taste preferences.

For equipment, a large baking dish is essential to hold the burritos snugly and allow the sauce to bubble around them. You’ll also need aluminum foil for covering the dish during baking.

How To Make This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Creating these smothered baked chicken burritos is simple, but the result is pure comfort food perfection. Let’s break it down step by step.

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F. While the oven heats, prepare the filling by combining shredded chicken, a generous scoop of enchilada sauce, and your preferred seasonings in a mixing bowl. Toss everything together until the chicken is evenly coated with flavor.

Next, assemble the burritos. Lay a tortilla flat, then add a hearty portion of the chicken filling in the center. Top it with a sprinkle of cheese and any additional fillings you like, such as cooked rice, beans, or sautéed vegetables. Roll the tortilla tightly, folding in the sides as you go to keep the filling secure.

Arrange the rolled burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Once they’re all snugly packed, pour the remaining enchilada sauce over the top, ensuring each burrito is fully coated.

Generously sprinkle the shredded cheese over the sauced burritos. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling.

Once out of the oven, let the burritos cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, or a dollop of sour cream for added flair.

The total time to make this dish is about 45 minutes, making it ideal for weeknight dinners when you want something quick yet satisfying.

Storage Options

Smothered baked chicken burritos store well, making them a great option for meal prep or leftovers.

To refrigerate, transfer cooled burritos to an airtight container. They’ll keep fresh for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.

For freezing, wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Reheating in the oven keeps the texture of the tortilla intact, but microwaving works fine if you’re in a hurry.

Variations and Substitutions

The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility. There are so many ways to adapt it to your preferences or dietary needs.

For a vegetarian version, swap the chicken for black beans, pinto beans, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and onions.

Looking for a low-carb option? Use low-carb tortillas or wrap the filling in large lettuce leaves before smothering and baking.

To amp up the heat, add diced jalapeños to the filling or use a spicy enchilada sauce.

For a creamier version, mix a little cream cheese or sour cream into the chicken filling. It adds richness and a touch of tang.

If you’re feeding a crowd, make a double batch and bake the burritos in two dishes. They’re a hit at potlucks and parties!

Don’t be afraid to experiment. These smothered baked chicken burritos are forgiving and delicious no matter how you customize them.

Enjoy creating and sharing this comforting, flavorful dish with your loved ones—it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!

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