Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce

Welcome to an inviting culinary journey with this Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce. If you love hearty, flavorful burritos, this recipe combines tender shredded chicken, creamy avocado, zesty tomatillo salsa and two vibrant sauces that echo the colors of the Mexican flag. It’s ideal for weeknight dinners, weekend gatherings, or any time you want a satisfying, authentic-tasting meal.

Introduction

Burritos are a beloved staple of Mexican-inspired cuisine: warm tortillas wrapped around savory fillings that deliver bold, layered flavors in every bite. This Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce pairs seasoned rice and pinto beans with shredded chicken finished in a tangy red tomato sauce and a bright tomatillo-based green sauce. The recipe is straightforward, adaptable, and colorful—perfect when you want a homestyle crowd-pleaser that still feels special.

Ingredients for Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce

Gather the following ingredients to make these chicken burritos with red and green sauce:

2 1/4 cups chicken broth
3/4 cup long grain rice, rinsed
1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, drained and rinsed
3 1/2 tablespoons chili powder
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 green onions, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce
1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
6 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro
6 (10-inch) flour tortillas
2 avocados, halved, pitted and cut into 1/2-inch pieces
8 oz Monterey Jack cheese, shredded (substitute low-fat or dairy-free if preferred)
1 1/2 cups tomatillo salsa
Water, as needed to adjust sauce consistency
1/2 cup Mexican crema (optional garnish)

How to Make Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the rice and beans

In a medium saucepan combine 1 1/4 cups of chicken broth, the rinsed long grain rice, drained pinto beans, 1 1/2 teaspoons of chili powder, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to low, cover and simmer about 20 minutes, until the rice is tender and liquid absorbed. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, 10 minutes. Stir in the sliced green onions and fluff with a fork. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the red tomato sauce

Heat the vegetable oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and the remaining 3 tablespoons of chili powder; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant. Stir in the tomato sauce and the remaining 1 cup of chicken broth, then bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 3: Cook and shred the chicken

Nestle the chicken breasts into the simmering red sauce, cover, and cook over medium-low until cooked through, about 10–15 minutes, turning once halfway through. Remove the chicken, shred it with two forks, and toss the shredded meat with about 1/4 cup of the red sauce and 2 tablespoons of chopped cilantro so the chicken is nicely coated and flavorful.

Step 4: Assemble the burritos

Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp towel and microwaving for 1 minute or warming briefly in a dry skillet. On each tortilla place a scoop of the rice and bean mixture, a portion of the shredded chicken, avocado pieces and a sprinkle of Monterey Jack cheese. Roll each tortilla into a tight burrito.

Step 5: Bake the burritos

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). Arrange the assembled burritos seam-side down on a foil-lined baking sheet. Cover with foil and bake 20–30 minutes until heated through. For a slightly crisp exterior, uncover for the last 5 minutes of baking.

Step 6: Make the green tomatillo sauce

Whisk the tomatillo salsa with 2 tablespoons minced cilantro in a small bowl and briefly warm in the microwave for about 1 minute, or reheat gently on the stove. Reheat any remaining red sauce and add water as needed to reach the desired consistency for serving.

Helpful Tips for Chicken Burritos with Red and Green Sauce

Fresh ingredients: Use fresh cilantro and ripe avocados for the best flavor and texture.
Warm tortillas: Warming tortillas makes them pliable and easier to roll without tearing.
Adjust spice: Add chopped jalapeño or a dash of hot sauce to the chicken if you like more heat.
Prevent sogginess: Toss the shredded chicken with a little sauce rather than soaking it, and bake covered to retain moisture but finish uncovered for a slight crisp.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these chicken burritos with Mexican street corn, a simple cucumber and tomato salad, or a bowl of tortilla chips with guacamole and extra salsa. A refreshing hibiscus iced tea or a classic margarita pairs well with the bold flavors.

Nutritional Information

This Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce provides a balanced plate of protein, carbohydrates and healthy fats from avocado. Estimated nutrition per serving (approximate):

Calories: 610 kcal
Fat: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 60 g
Protein: 38 g
Key nutrients: Vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, iron

Storage and Reheating

Store: Wrap each burrito in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate up to 3 days. For longer storage, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheat: For best texture, reheat burritos in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or reheat from frozen at 375°F for 35–40 minutes. Microwaving is fastest but may soften the tortilla.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I assemble these burritos ahead of time?

Yes. You can assemble burritos and refrigerate them up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I use leftover chicken?

Absolutely. Leftover cooked chicken makes this recipe faster—simply warm it with some red sauce before assembling.

How do I keep the burrito from getting soggy?

Toss the chicken lightly with just enough sauce to flavor it, and bake covered to retain moisture—uncover at the end for a firmer exterior.

Related Recipes for Burrito Lovers

Ultimate Cowboy Casserole: A hearty layered casserole that pairs well with burritos.
Baked Chicken Chimichangas: A crispy, oven-baked variation on the classic rolled and fried chimichanga.

Conclusion

Try this Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce to bring vibrant Mexican flavors to your table. It’s approachable, flexible, and full of texture and color. Experiment with fillings and spice levels to make it your own, and enjoy sharing these flavorful burritos with family and friends.

Enjoy your meal!

Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce | Easy & Tasty

Author: Patri