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Looking for a quick, satisfying meal that the whole family will love? These Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos are packed with flavor, easy to make, and perfect for busy weeknights. With seasoned ground chicken, colorful vegetables, melty cheese, and a hint of spice, these burritos are sure to become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
Key Ingredients
The magic of these burritos lies in their simple yet flavorful ingredients. Lean ground chicken provides a healthy protein base, while bell peppers and onions add freshness and crunch. A blend of spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder brings warmth and depth, and the combination of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses creates that irresistible gooey texture. Salsa verde and chipotle sauce add a zesty kick that ties everything together beautifully.
Ingredients List
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Avocado Oil or Olive Oil | 1 tbsp. |
| Ground Chicken | 8 oz. |
| Red Bell Pepper, chopped | 1/2 cup |
| White Onion, chopped | 1/3 cup |
| Jalapeño Pepper, finely chopped (optional) | 1 tbsp. |
| Garlic Powder | 1 tsp. |
| Chili Powder | 1 tsp. |
| Kosher Salt or Sea Salt | 1/2 tsp. |
| Ground Cumin | 1/2 tsp. |
| Cooked Rice | 1 cup |
| Salsa Verde or your favorite salsa | 1/4 cup |
| Chipotle Sauce | 1 tbsp. |
| Shredded Cheddar Cheese | 1 cup |
| Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese | 1 cup |
| Extra Large Flour Tortillas (burrito-sized) | 4 |
Helpful Tools
- Large nonstick skillet for cooking the filling
- Spatula for stirring and breaking up the chicken
- Cutting board and sharp knife for prepping vegetables
Pro-Tips
- Don’t overcook the ground chicken. Cook just until no longer pink to keep it juicy and tender.
- Toasting the burritos in a skillet after assembling gives them a crispy exterior and helps seal them shut.
- Warm your tortillas slightly before filling them to make them more pliable and less likely to tear.
- If you like extra heat, add more jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the filling mixture.
- For a complete meal, serve with Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowl A Flavor Packed Fiesta as a side dish or inspiration.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos
- Heat 1 tbsp. avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add 8 oz. ground chicken, 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper, 1/3 cup chopped white onion, and 1 tbsp. finely chopped jalapeño (if using). Add a pinch of salt and cook for 7-8 minutes, breaking the chicken into small pieces, until fully cooked and veggies are softened.
- Stir in 1 tsp. garlic powder, 1 tsp. chili powder, 1/2 tsp. salt, and 1/2 tsp. ground cumin. Cook for 1-2 minutes to toast the seasonings and enhance their flavor.
- Add 1 cup cooked rice, 1/4 cup salsa verde, and 1 tbsp. chipotle sauce. Stir to combine everything evenly. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt if needed. Turn off the heat.
- Lay one tortilla on a flat surface. Spread 1/4 cup shredded cheese down the center, top with a heaping 1/2 cup of the chicken filling, then sprinkle another 1/4 cup cheese on top. Fold in the sides and roll up into a burrito.
- Toast the burrito seam-side down in a nonstick pan over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden and crispy.
- Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling. Serve hot with your favorite toppings or sides.
Variations
- Swap ground chicken for ground turkey or lean ground beef for a different protein option.
- Use your favorite color of bell pepper or a mix for added color and flavor.
- Try brown rice instead of white for a whole grain boost.
- Substitute salsa verde with red salsa or green chiles for a different flavor profile.
- Make it mild by omitting the jalapeño and chipotle sauce, and using a mild salsa.
Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos
Ingredients
FAQ
Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the filling ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble and toast the burritos just before serving for the best texture.
What can I serve with these burritos?
These burritos pair well with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, refried beans, or your favorite chips and salsa.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Conclusion
These Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos are a delicious, family-friendly meal that’s easy to customize and perfect for any night of the week. With their melty cheese, flavorful filling, and crispy tortilla exterior, they’re sure to be a hit at your table. For more delicious ideas, follow me on Pinterest.