If you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and satisfying meal, shredded chicken burritos are a great go-to option. Packed with protein and customizable ingredients, these burritos make for a versatile lunch or dinner that everyone in the family can enjoy. Best of all, this shredded chicken burrito recipe is incredibly simple, so even beginner cooks can master it. Let’s dive into the steps to create this tasty meal!
Ingredients
For this easy shredded chicken burrito recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients:
For the Chicken:
2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup chicken broth (or water)
1 packet taco seasoning or homemade taco seasoning (cumin, chili powder, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper)
For the Burritos:
Large flour tortillas
1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or a Mexican blend)
1 cup salsa (store-bought or homemade)
1 avocado (sliced or mashed)
Sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Lime wedges (optional)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Instant Pot or Slow Cooker Method: For super tender shredded chicken, use an Instant Pot or slow cooker. Add the chicken breasts, chicken broth (or water), and taco seasoning to your pot.
Instant Pot: Set to “Pressure Cook” for 10 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before doing a quick release.
Slow Cooker: Cook on low for 4-6 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
Stovetop Method: Place the chicken breasts in a large skillet with the chicken broth and taco seasoning. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer. Cover and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
Step 2: Shred the Chicken
Once the chicken is cooked, shred it using two forks. If using an Instant Pot or slow cooker, you can shred the chicken directly in the pot to mix it with the juices and seasoning. This will keep the chicken extra moist and flavorful.
Step 3: Prepare the Other Ingredients
While the chicken is cooking, prepare the burrito fillings:
Cook your rice according to package instructions.
Drain and rinse your black beans.
Set out all toppings, including shredded cheese, salsa, avocado, and sour cream.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Warm the tortillas: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and warm the tortillas for about 10-20 seconds on each side until they’re soft and pliable.
Build your burrito: Start by layering a portion of shredded chicken onto each tortilla. Add black beans, rice, cheese, salsa, avocado, and any other toppings you like.
Fold the burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it tightly from the bottom up.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy
Cut the burritos in half if desired, and serve with extra salsa, sour cream, or lime wedges on the side.
Tips and Variations
Meal Prep: Shredded chicken burritos are perfect for meal prep. Store all the components separately in airtight containers in the fridge, and assemble your burritos when ready to eat.
They also freeze well—just wrap them tightly in foil and store them in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the shredded chicken for sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, or use a plant-based meat substitute.
Spicy Twist: Add jalapeños, chipotle sauce, or hot sauce to your burrito for extra heat.
This easy shredded chicken burrito recipe is not only quick and simple to make, but it’s also versatile and adaptable to any preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re preparing a family dinner or looking for a convenient meal prep option, these burritos are sure to satisfy.
Serving Suggestions
Shredded chicken burritos can be enjoyed on their own, but there are plenty of sides and accompaniments that will take your meal to the next level. Here are a few ideas:
Chips and Salsa: Serve your burritos with a side of tortilla chips and a variety of salsas—like classic tomato, tomatillo, or mango salsa for a tropical twist.
Guacamole: Fresh guacamole is a perfect side to complement the creamy and spicy flavors inside the burrito.
Mexican Street Corn: Known as elote, Mexican street corn is grilled and slathered with a mixture of mayo, cotija cheese, lime juice, and chili powder for a smoky, tangy, and rich side dish.
Cilantro-Lime Rice: Upgrade your plain rice by stirring in fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice to add brightness and flavor.
Refried Beans: Creamy and hearty refried beans pair wonderfully with shredded chicken burritos, adding extra protein and fiber.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about making burritos is how easily you can adapt the recipe to fit different tastes. Here are a few more ways to personalize your burritos:
Add Veggies: Feel free to bulk up your burrito with sautéed or roasted veggies like bell peppers, onions, zucchini, or corn. This adds texture and nutritional value to your meal.
Switch Up the Protein: While shredded chicken is a great base, you can swap it out for shredded beef, pork carnitas, ground turkey, or even grilled shrimp for a different take on this classic burrito.
Use Different Cheeses: Cheddar or Mexican blend cheeses work well, but you can experiment with queso fresco, pepper jack, or even a dollop of creamy queso dip.
Healthier Swaps: For a lighter version of this recipe, swap sour cream for Greek yogurt, use whole wheat or low-carb tortillas, and add extra fresh veggies like lettuce and tomatoes.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
If you have leftover burritos or want to prep a batch for the week, here’s how you can store and reheat them:
Refrigerator: Wrap each burrito individually in foil or plastic wrap, and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll stay good for up to 3 months.
Reheating: If you’re reheating from the fridge, unwrap the burrito and microwave it on a plate for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. For crispy edges, you can also toast it in a skillet over medium heat. From frozen, microwave the burrito for 2-3 minutes, or until warmed through, or bake it in the oven at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
This easy shredded chicken burrito recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, gatherings, or meal prep. Its simplicity, combined with customizable toppings, ensures that everyone can enjoy their burrito exactly how they like it. Plus, with minimal effort and just a few basic ingredients, you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal that rivals your favorite takeout burrito.
So, gather your ingredients, get cooking, and enjoy this quick and flavorful meal!
