Green Chile Chicken Burrito
Tender shredded chicken simmered in a savory green chile sauce, wrapped with rice and cheese in a warm tortilla, then baked until bubbly. A hearty and comforting Southwest classic that's perfect for dinner.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 45 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Cook and Shred the Chicken
- b.Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Season chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
- c.Sear the chicken for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- d.In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent.
- e.Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, and dried oregano. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
- f.Return the chicken to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced green chiles. Bring to a simmer.
- g.Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it gently simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender enough to shred easily.
- h.Remove the chicken from the pot. Use two forks to shred the meat. Return the shredded chicken to the pot and stir to coat it in the sauce. Simmer for 2-3 more minutes to let the flavors meld.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Prepare for Assembly
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish.
- c.To make the tortillas pliable, warm them one at a time in a dry skillet for 20-30 seconds per side, or wrap the stack in a damp paper towel and microwave for 30-45 seconds.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Burritos
- b.Lay a warm tortilla on a flat surface. If using rice, spoon about 1/2 cup in a line down the center.
- c.Top the rice with about a quarter of the green chile chicken mixture.
- d.Sprinkle generously with about 1/4 cup of the shredded Monterey Jack cheese (reserving about 1/2 cup for the topping).
- e.To roll, fold the two sides of the tortilla inward over the filling. Then, pull the bottom edge up and over the filling, tucking it in tightly. Continue rolling until the burrito is sealed.
- f.Place the burrito seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Bake to Perfection
- b.Pour the green chile enchilada sauce evenly over the tops of the assembled burritos.
- c.Sprinkle the remaining shredded cheese over the sauce.
- d.Bake for 15-20 minutes, until the sauce is hot and bubbly and the cheese is fully melted and slightly golden.
- e.For a crispier, browned top, you can switch to the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes. Watch it very closely to prevent burning.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and Serve
- b.Remove the baking dish from the oven and let the burritos rest for at least 5 minutes. This allows them to set and makes them easier to serve.
- c.Garnish with sour cream and fresh cilantro, if desired. Serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Warming the tortillas is a crucial step. Cold or dry tortillas will crack and break when you try to roll them.
- 2Don't overfill the burritos. It makes them difficult to roll and they may burst open while baking.
- 3For a creamier filling, stir 2-3 tablespoons of sour cream or cream cheese into the shredded chicken mixture before assembling.
- 4These burritos are excellent for meal prep. Assemble them without the sauce and cheese topping, wrap individually in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To bake, unwrap, place in a dish, top with sauce and cheese, and bake from frozen for 35-45 minutes.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Beans
Mix 1 cup of canned black beans or pinto beans (rinsed and drained) into the chicken filling for extra fiber and flavor.
Spicier VersionSpicier Version
Sauté one finely chopped jalapeño with the onion, or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture for an extra kick.
Different ProteinDifferent Protein
This recipe works wonderfully with shredded pork carnitas or slow-cooked shredded beef instead of chicken.
Vegetarian OptionVegetarian Option
Replace the chicken with 2 cups of cooked black beans and 1 cup of corn kernels. Sauté with bell peppers and follow the same steps.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent Source of Protein
The chicken provides high-quality protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues, supporting muscle growth, and maintaining a healthy immune system.
Provides Sustained Energy
Carbohydrates from the tortillas and rice offer a significant source of energy to fuel your body and brain throughout the day.
Contains Capsaicin
Green chiles are a source of capsaicin, a compound known for its potential anti-inflammatory properties and ability to boost metabolism.
Frequently asked questions
Each burrito contains approximately 885 calories, depending on the specific brands of tortillas, cheese, and sauce used. This is a hearty, full meal.