Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Burrito Recipe

Description

Ingredients

Chicken Filling

• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 1 lb skinless, boneless chicken breasts
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon salt
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 ½ cups refried beans
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ cup water

Burritos

• 2 cups Mexican rice
• 1 cup canned corn, drained
• 8 large flour tortillas
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

• In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika and dried oregano.
• Heat the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
• Add the chicken breasts to the skillet and sprinkle the spice blend evenly over them. Cook the chicken until fully cooked through, about 6–8 minutes per side depending on thickness.
• Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and set aside to rest. When cool enough to handle, shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
• In the same skillet, add a touch more oil if needed and sauté the chopped onion, minced garlic and chopped red bell pepper until softened and fragrant, about 4–6 minutes. Return the chicken to the pan and stir to combine with the vegetables.

Step 2: Assemble the Burritos

• Warm the flour tortillas briefly according to package directions—this makes them easier to roll.
• Spread a thin layer of refried beans down the center of each tortilla; add a splash of the ¼ cup water to loosen the beans if needed.
• Top the beans with a portion of the seasoned chicken and sautéed vegetables, then add a scoop of Mexican rice and a spoonful of corn.
• Sprinkle shredded cheddar over the filling, fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it up tightly from one end to the other.

Step 3: Bake the Burritos

• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Place assembled burritos seam-side down on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
• Bake for about 5–8 minutes, or until the tortillas are slightly crisp and the cheese has melted.

Notes & Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve these burritos with fresh guacamole, a dollop of sour cream, or a salsa verde. A crisp side salad, Mexican street corn coleslaw, or lime wedges complement the flavors nicely. For a heartier meal, add a side of black beans or tortilla chips.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 413 kcal • Fat: 16 g • Carbohydrates: 45 g • Protein: 26 g • Vitamins: A, C, Calcium, Iron

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• To reheat, microwave on high for 1–2 minutes or warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through and the tortilla becomes crisp again.
• To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make the burritos ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the burritos and refrigerate them. Bake just before serving to refresh the tortilla and melt the cheese.

How can I make the burrito spicier?

Add sliced jalapeños, a spicy salsa, or a pinch of cayenne to the chicken seasoning.

Can I use another protein?

Ground beef, shredded pork, or even a seasoned vegetarian protein like sautéed mushrooms or spiced tofu are good alternatives.

Related Recipe Ideas

• Ultimate Cowboy Casserole Cornbread – a hearty, comforting casserole
• Sausage Balls Recipe with Red Lobster Mix – easy and tasty snack or appetizer

Conclusion

This Taco Bell–inspired Chicken Burrito recipe is a quick, satisfying meal that you can customize to your family’s tastes. It’s simple to prepare, easy to scale up for a crowd, and stores well for lunches or busy weeknights. Try different fillings, add your favorite salsas or toppings, and enjoy a flavorful homemade burrito any night of the week.

We hope you enjoy making and sharing this recipe. Feel free to note any personal variations you try and serve it with the sides you love most.