Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

There’s something so comforting about a plate of Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos. I remember the first time I tried them at a local Mexican eatery. The rich flavors of the chicken combined with the tangy green chiles and gooey cheese were a feast for my taste buds. It became a regular choice on my nights out! Fast forward to today, and I’ve created my own version at home that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. These burritos bring back those wonderful memories and are sure to create new ones around your dinner table.

Recipe Snapshot

Total Time:
50 mins
Prep Time:
10 mins
Cook Time:
40 mins
Difficulty:
Medium
Calories:
550 kcal
Protein:
35 g
Diet:
Gluten-Free, Low FODMAP
Fat:
28 g
Tools Used:
Chef’s Knife, Whisk, Cutting Board, Wooden Spoon, Mixing Bowl, Frying Pan, Baking Sheet, Oven

Why This Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Is a Winner

1. Comfort Food at Its Best

Nothing beats the feeling of tucking into a warm, cheesy burrito after a long day. The Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos not only satisfy your cravings but also wrap you in a blanket of warmth and comfort.

2. Easy to Customize

One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can adjust the spice level by using hotter or milder green chiles, or even add your favorite toppings like avocado or jalapeños. The options are endless!

3. Great for Meal Prep

If you’re busy during the week, this recipe shines as a make-ahead meal. You can prepare the chicken filling and green chile sauce a day in advance, making dinner prep a breeze. Just roll them up when you’re ready to eat!

4. Family Friendly

Kids love burritos, and this recipe is no exception! The combination of chicken, cheese, and savory spices is a sure win for even the pickiest eaters. Plus, they can help in the kitchen by assembling their own burritos.

5. Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a gathering with friends, Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos are a hit. They make an appearance at parties and celebrations, bringing everyone together over a shared love of good food.

Recipe Ingredients for Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

The ingredients for Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos come together to create a symphony of flavors. Each element plays a vital role, ensuring that every bite is packed with taste and satisfaction. The star, of course, is the chicken, which pairs beautifully with the zesty salsa and creamy cheddar cheese. The fresh green onions add a brightness, while the green chiles deliver just the right amount of kick. Let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need.

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
  • 1 1/2 cups salsa, your favorite kind
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
  • 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 6 large flour tortillas
  • Olive oil, for brushing on burritos
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 ounces diced green chilies, mild
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Recipe Directions for Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

Making Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll love the delicious aromas filling your kitchen as you prepare these flavorful burritos. Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions!

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper; this will help with the cleanup later!
  2. To make the filling, mix together the chicken, salsa, cumin, oregano, cheddar cheese, and green onions in a large bowl. You want everything well combined for maximum flavor.
  3. Take a large flour tortilla and place a heaping ½ cup of the chicken mixture in the center. Be careful not to overfill, or you’ll have trouble rolling them up!
  4. Fold the sides of the tortilla in and roll it tightly to form a burrito. Place the burrito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will help them crisp up beautifully.
  6. Bake the burritos in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
  7. While the burritos are baking, prepare the sauce. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s melted and bubbling, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes. This creates a roux.
  8. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld.
  9. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
  10. Next, add the remaining cumin, oregano, and a dash of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring until thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the green chilies, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  11. Once the burritos are done baking, remove them from the oven and set your oven to HIGH broil.
  12. Ladle a spoonful of the sauce over each burrito and top with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. Serve your delicious Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos with authentic Mexican rice for a complete meal!

Things Worth Knowing

  • Cooking the Tortillas: If you prefer fresher tortillas, try using uncooked ones and quickly cook them in a pan before assembling your burritos.
  • Make-Ahead: Both the chicken filling and green chile sauce can be prepared a day or two in advance, making busy nights easier.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the burritos before baking. Just roll them up and place them in a freezer bag. Bake from frozen, covered with foil, and then uncovered to crisp.
  • Serving Options: These burritos pair wonderfully with a side of guacamole or fresh salsa for added flavor.

Ways to Customize

Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

While Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos are fantastic as they are, there’s always room for creativity. Here are some fun tips to make them your own!

  • Adjust the Spice: Want more heat? Use hot green chiles or add diced jalapeños to the filling.
  • Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautĂ©ed bell peppers or corn into the filling for extra nutrition and flavor.
  • Different Cheeses: Experiment with different cheeses, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or Monterey Jack for creaminess.
  • Fresh Herbs: Toss in some fresh cilantro or parsley for brightness and added depth of flavor.
  • Make it a Skillet Meal: If you don’t want to roll burritos, layer the ingredients in a skillet for a deconstructed version!

Pairing Suggestions for Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

When it comes to serving Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos, there are plenty of delicious options to choose from. Here are some great pairings to consider:

  • Salsa: Serve with fresh tomato salsa or mango salsa for a burst of flavor.
  • Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is a perfect side that complements the flavors of the burritos.
  • Rice: Authentic Mexican rice makes a hearty addition to your meal, soaking up the delicious sauce.
  • Salad: A fresh side salad with mixed greens and a tangy vinaigrette is a refreshing contrast.
  • Occasions: These burritos are perfect for cozy family dinners, casual gatherings with friends, or even Taco Tuesdays!
  • Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
  • Freezing: You can freeze the assembled burritos before baking; just bake from frozen as needed.

FAQ

Absolutely! While this recipe features chicken, you can easily substitute it with shredded beef or even a plant-based protein like tofu or black beans for a vegetarian version. Just ensure that whatever meat you choose is cooked and seasoned well to maintain the delicious flavors of the Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos.

If you’re a fan of heat, there are several ways to elevate the spice level in your Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos. You can use hot green chiles instead of mild ones, add diced jalapeños to the filling, or top your burritos with a spicy salsa. Don’t be afraid to experiment until you find the right balance for your palate!

Yes, you can freeze Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos before baking. Just roll them up and place them in a freezer-safe bag. When you’re ready to eat, bake them straight from frozen, covering them with foil initially to retain moisture. They’ll be just as delicious when reheated!

These burritos are incredibly versatile and pair well with many sides. Consider serving them with guacamole, fresh salsa, or a simple side salad. You could also enjoy them alongside Spanish rice or refried beans for a hearty meal.

Conclusion

Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos are a delightful fusion of flavors that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food. With their cheesy, savory goodness, they make any meal feel special. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, these burritos are sure to impress. So why not gather the ingredients and make them tonight? You won’t regret it!

Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos

The ultimate comfort food, these Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos are creamy, cheesy, and filled with flavorful chicken. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, you'll want to make this easy recipe tonight!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6 burritos
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 550

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
  • 1.5 cups salsa, your favorite kind
  • 1.5 teaspoons ground cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dried oregano, crushed
  • 1.25 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 2 green onions, chopped
  • 6 large flour tortillas
  • olive oil, for brushing on burritos
  • 3 tablespoons butter
  • 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon Dried oregano, crushed
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 4 ounces diced green chilies, mild
  • 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup sour cream

Equipment

  • Chef's Knife
  • Whisk
  • Cutting Board
  • Wooden Spoon
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Frying Pan
  • Baking Sheet
  • Oven

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F. Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper; this will help with the cleanup later!
  2. To make the filling, mix together the chicken, salsa, cumin, oregano, cheddar cheese, and green onions in a large bowl. You want everything well combined for maximum flavor.
  3. Take a large flour tortilla and place a heaping ½ cup of the chicken mixture in the center. Be careful not to overfill, or you’ll have trouble rolling them up!
  4. Fold the sides of the tortilla in and roll it tightly to form a burrito. Place the burrito seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet.
  5. Brush the tops lightly with olive oil or spray with non-stick cooking spray. This will help them crisp up beautifully.
  6. Bake the burritos in the preheated oven for about 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Keep an eye on them to avoid burning.
  7. While the burritos are baking, prepare the sauce. Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it's melted and bubbling, whisk in the flour and cook, stirring constantly for about 3 minutes. This creates a roux.
  8. Add the minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds, allowing the flavors to meld.
  9. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, stirring until the mixture is smooth.
  10. Next, add the remaining cumin, oregano, and a dash of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring until thickened, about 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the green chilies, cheddar cheese, and sour cream. Taste and adjust the seasonings as needed.
  11. Once the burritos are done baking, remove them from the oven and set your oven to HIGH broil.
  12. Ladle a spoonful of the sauce over each burrito and top with a handful of shredded cheddar cheese. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  13. Serve your delicious Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos with authentic Mexican rice for a complete meal!

Notes

  • Tortillas: I prefer to use uncooked flour tortillas, and quickly cook them myself, but regular flour tortillas work as well.
  • Make ahead Instructions: The chicken filling and green chile sauce can both be made a day or two in advance, making dinner prep super easy! Store them separately, covered in the fridge.
  • Freezing Instructions: Make the burrito filling as instructed and roll up in tortillas (either uncooked or regular tortillas). Place in a freezer ziplock bag. Make the sauce but do not add the sour cream. Freeze sauce in a separate container. To bake from frozen place frozen burritos on a lined baking sheet, cover with tinfoil and bake at 350 degrees for 40 minutes. Uncover and bake for an additional 15 to 20 minutes or until warmed through and crisp on the outside. Add frozen sauce to a saucepan and warm. Stir in sour cream. Serve over cooked burritos.

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