Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Introduction

The Taco Bell Chicken Burrito is a fast-food favorite that combines seasoned chicken, flavorful toppings, and a soft tortilla for a satisfying meal. This homemade version lets you recreate the beloved burrito right in your kitchen, bringing all the bold flavors to life.

I first tried making this burrito when I wanted something quick yet packed with flavor, and it turned out to be a huge hit with my family. The tender, seasoned chicken pairs perfectly with zesty sauce and fresh veggies, creating a burst of flavor with every bite. The best part is how customizable it is—you can add your favorite toppings like guacamole, sour cream, or extra cheese for a personal touch.

Whether you’re having it for lunch, dinner, or even as a quick snack, this burrito is a perfect, deliciously satisfying option that hits all the right notes of flavor and texture. It’s the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again!

Perfect for:

• Quick weeknight dinners
• Meal prepping
• Family meals
• Taco Tuesday
• Burrito lovers

Why You’ll Love This Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Here’s why this homemade Taco Bell Chicken Burrito will become your go-to recipe:

• Flavorful Chicken: The seasoned chicken is marinated and cooked to perfection, giving it a savory, zesty flavor.
• Creamy Sauce: The creamy ranch or creamy chipotle sauce adds a smooth and rich element to the burrito, complementing the other ingredients.
• Versatile: You can adjust the fillings to your preference, from extra cheese to added veggies or hot sauce.
• Quick and Easy: The entire burrito comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it a great option for a quick meal.
• Perfectly Sized: The burrito is filling, but not too large, so it’s great for both satisfying hunger and portion control.

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Servings: 4 burritos
• Calories per serving: Approximately 400-450 calories
• Key Nutrients: Protein: 28g, Carbs: 42g, Fat: 12g

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your homemade Taco Bell Chicken Burrito:

• 2 large chicken breasts (boneless, skinless)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or homemade)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup creamy ranch dressing (or creamy chipotle sauce)
• 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
• 1 tablespoon lime juice (optional)
• Salsa or hot sauce (optional)

Ingredient Highlights

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the perfect choice for this burrito. They are lean, tender, and take on the seasoning beautifully.
• Taco Seasoning: The seasoning blend adds a classic taco flavor to the chicken, with a hint of spice and savory depth.
• Flour Tortillas: Large flour tortillas provide the ideal base for wrapping up all the delicious ingredients and make the burrito easy to eat.
• Rice: Adding rice to the burrito helps to balance out the flavors and adds substance, making the burrito even more filling.
• Cheese & Sauce: The combination of shredded cheddar cheese and creamy sauce ties everything together, creating that Taco Bell-inspired experience.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make your homemade Taco Bell Chicken Burrito:

Prepare the Chicken:

1. Season the Chicken: Start by seasoning the chicken breasts with taco seasoning, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the seasoning into the chicken evenly.
2. Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
3. Shred the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred the chicken with two forks into bite-sized pieces.

Assemble the Burritos:

4. Warm the Tortillas: Heat the flour tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds on each side or microwave them for a few seconds until soft and warm.
5. Add the Rice: Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface and spoon a few tablespoons of cooked white rice down the center of each tortilla.
6. Add the Chicken: Top the rice with a generous portion of the shredded chicken.
7. Add Toppings: Add shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, shredded cheddar cheese, and a drizzle of sour cream.
8. Drizzle the Sauce: Drizzle creamy ranch dressing or creamy chipotle sauce over the ingredients for extra flavor.
9. Fold the Burrito: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up from the bottom, ensuring all the fillings are securely wrapped inside.

Cook the Burritos:

10. Toast the Burrito: (Optional) For a crispy exterior, place the wrapped burrito seam-side down in the skillet and toast for 1-2 minutes on each side until golden and slightly crispy.

How to Serve Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

This homemade Taco Bell Chicken Burrito is perfect for many occasions and can be served in a variety of ways:

• With Chips and Salsa: Serve the burrito with a side of tortilla chips and salsa for an extra crunch and flavor.
• With Guacamole: Add a scoop of homemade or store-bought guacamole for an additional creamy touch.
• With a Salad: Pair with a simple green salad or a side of Mexican street corn for a fuller meal.
• For Meal Prep: Wrap the burritos tightly in foil and refrigerate for a quick, on-the-go lunch option throughout the week.
• For Taco Tuesday: Serve as part of your Taco Tuesday spread, alongside other favorite Mexican dishes like quesadillas and tacos.

Additional Tips for Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Here are some tips to make your Taco Bell Chicken Burritos even better:

• Customize Your Filling: Add or remove ingredients based on your preferences, like extra cheese, jalapeños, or black beans.
• Marinate the Chicken: For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in the seasoning and a bit of lime juice for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Use Corn Tortillas: If you prefer, you can swap out flour tortillas for corn tortillas for a different texture and flavor.
• Double the Recipe: Make a large batch of chicken and freeze the cooked chicken for future burritos.
• Make it Spicy: Add diced jalapeños, hot sauce, or a spicy salsa to give the burrito an extra kick.

Recipe Variations for Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Here are 10 variations you can try for your Taco Bell Chicken Burrito:

• Grilled Chicken Burrito: Use grilled chicken instead of pan-fried for a smoky flavor.
• BBQ Chicken Burrito: Add barbecue sauce to the chicken for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Buffalo Chicken Burrito: Use buffalo sauce for the chicken for a spicy, tangy version.
• Steak Burrito: Swap the chicken for steak or ground beef for a different protein option.
• Vegetarian Burrito: Replace the chicken with sautéed vegetables, black beans, or a veggie protein like tofu.
• Southwest Chicken Burrito: Add black beans, corn, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a Southwest-inspired version.
• Breakfast Chicken Burrito: Include scrambled eggs and breakfast potatoes for a hearty breakfast burrito.
• Cheesy Chicken Burrito: Add extra melted cheese inside the burrito and top with a cheese sauce for a cheesy indulgence.
• Crispy Chicken Burrito: Use crispy fried chicken strips instead of grilled or shredded chicken for added texture.
• Spicy Chicken Burrito: Add a layer of chipotle sauce or sriracha for a spicy, smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage for Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

• Freezing: To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly in foil and store in a zip-top bag. These will last up to 2-3 months in the freezer. Reheat by microwaving or toasting in a skillet.
• Storage: Store leftover burritos in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on a skillet for best results.

Special Equipment for Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Here are some special equipment items to make preparing your Taco Bell Chicken Burrito easier:

• Skillet: A good non-stick skillet will make cooking the chicken and toasting the burritos easier.
• Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping the veggies and shredding the chicken.
• Tongs: Helpful for flipping the chicken while cooking.
• Foil or Plastic Wrap: Use to wrap your burritos for storage or meal prep.
• Microwave: If you’re reheating leftovers or softening tortillas, the microwave is a quick and easy option.

Frequently Asked Questions for Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

1. Can I use other proteins?
   Yes, you can use beef, pork, or even tofu as a protein substitute for the chicken.
2. Can I make these burritos gluten-free?
   Yes, simply use gluten-free tortillas and ensure all other ingredients are gluten-free.
3. Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
   Absolutely! Swap the chicken for black beans, rice, sautéed veggies, or tofu.
4. How do I keep the burritos warm for a party?
   You can wrap the burritos in foil and place them in a warm oven (around 200°F or 93°C) to keep them warm for an extended period.
5. Can I prepare the burritos ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the burritos and refrigerate or freeze them for later.

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Conclusion

This homemade Taco Bell Chicken Burrito is a perfect way to recreate the iconic Taco Bell flavor in your own kitchen! Packed with tender, seasoned chicken, rice, fresh veggies, and a rich, creamy sauce, these burritos are full of flavor and incredibly satisfying. The best part is how customizable they are—add extra toppings like cheese, sour cream, or guacamole to make it your own.

Whether you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner or a meal to feed a group, these burritos hit the spot every time. Try making them today and enjoy the comfort and deliciousness of Taco Bell, all from the comfort of your home!

I’d love to see how your Taco Bell Chicken Burritos turn out! Snap a photo, share it on social media, and tag me—can’t wait to see your creations! Happy cooking!