Are you ready to dive into a dish that’s creamy, flavorful, and downright comforting? Let me introduce you to Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos! Imagine the sizzling sensation of seasoned chicken, wrapped snugly in a soft tortilla, and drenched in a warm, cheesy sauce. Doesn’t that sound enticing? This recipe is not just a meal; it’s a hug on a plate, perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying yet quick to prepare.
Here’s a fun fact: burritos originated in Mexico, and their name translates to “little donkey.” Why, you ask? It’s said that their shape resembles the packs carried by donkeys! These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are special because they can be made in under an hour and are loved by everyone—making them a surefire hit at the dinner table. If you’ve enjoyed my Chicken Enchiladas, get ready for another delicious experience that promises to tantalize your taste buds. So lace up your apron and let’s get cooking!
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What are Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos?
So, what’s the deal with Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos? Well, this dish is a delightful blend of tender, shredded chicken enveloped in flour tortillas and smothered in a creamy sauce before being baked to perfection. You might be wondering, “Why the name ‘smothered’?” Well, think about it—who doesn’t love a dish that’s generously enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce? It’s like a culinary bear hug! As the saying goes, “the way to a man’s heart is through his stomach,” and these burritos are sure to win all hearts at your table. So, roll up your sleeves and give this mouthwatering recipe a shot!
Why You’ll Love These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with these Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos. First, the highlight of this dish is its creamy, cheesy sauce that wraps the chicken in a flavor bomb of goodness. Not only is this burrito delight packed with taste, but it’s also an economical choice, allowing you to feed the whole family without breaking the bank. With ingredients that are often staples in your pantry, it’s surprising how much flavor you can create at home without reaching for takeout.
Plus, you can amp up the flavor with delightful toppings like avocado, salsa, or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. You won’t want to stop at just one burrito; they’re that delicious! If you love these, don’t forget to check out my Fiesta Chicken Quesadillas for another savory option to spice up your weeknight dinners!
How to Make Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Quick Overview
This recipe is not only delicious, but it’s also straightforward, making it perfect for even the busiest nights. With juicy chicken, a cheesy sauce, and all the flavors melded together, you’ll find it satisfying and filling. Getting dinner on the table will take about 40 minutes, including prep and cooking time, leaving you more time to savor those moments with family.
Key Ingredients for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of chicken soup
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup salsa (your choice of mild, medium, or hot)
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, chili powder, and garlic powder. This creamy mixture will be the star of your burritos!
- In another bowl, combine your shredded chicken with half of the creamy sauce mixture. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
- Assemble the burritos by placing a generous amount of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top, and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the burritos. Don’t forget to sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the sauce!
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
What to Serve with Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
To elevate your meal experience, consider serving these burritos with a fresh, crisp salad or some homemade guacamole for added creaminess. A side of Mexican rice or refried beans would also pair perfectly, adding a nice contrast in texture and flavor. And, of course, don’t forget to offer some tortilla chips on the side for that satisfying crunch. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not whip up a batch of homemade horchata to drink alongside your delicious burritos?
Top Tips for Perfecting Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Here are some handy tips to ensure your burritos are a hit:
- Swap out proteins: If you’re not a fan of chicken, try using shredded beef, turkey, or even a vegetarian option like black beans or veggies for a meatless delight.
- Make it spicier: Add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to amp up the heat.
- Avoid soggy tortillas: If you’re making these ahead of time, consider lightly warming the tortillas before filling them to prevent them from getting soggy.
- Don’t overfill: Keep the fillings within reasonable limits to avoid the burritos bursting while baking.
Storing and Reheating Tips
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt you will because they’re so good!), storing them is simple. Allow them to cool, then wrap tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You could also freeze the burritos before baking. Just wrap them individually in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to keep the cheese from burning. If frozen, allow to thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Now, imagine yourself sharing these delightful Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos with loved ones, the cheese oozing with every bite, laughter filling the room. It’s time to head to the kitchen and create a meal that everyone will remember fondly. Happy cooking!
Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked, shredded chicken Can use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- 4 large flour tortillas Choose whole wheat or regular based on preference.
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack) Feel free to mix cheeses for added flavor.
- 1 can cream of chicken soup Can substitute with cream of mushroom if desired.
- 1/2 cup sour cream Can use Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- 1 cup salsa Choose mild, medium, or hot based on preference.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder Adjust to taste for spiciness.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Fresh garlic can also be used.
- to taste Fresh cilantro For garnish (optional).
Instructions
Preparation
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a medium bowl, mix together the cream of chicken soup, sour cream, salsa, chili powder, and garlic powder.
- In another bowl, combine your shredded chicken with half of the creamy sauce mixture and stir until the chicken is evenly coated.
Assembly
- Assemble the burritos by placing a generous amount of the chicken mixture in each tortilla, sprinkle some shredded cheese on top, and roll them up tightly.
- Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- Pour the remaining sauce over the top of the burritos, then sprinkle the rest of the cheese over the sauce.
Baking
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
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