Late on a Friday night, I found myself staring into the fridge, craving something warm and satisfying—a real hug in edible form. That’s when the idea struck me: Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos would be the perfect solution! With tender chicken wrapped in soft tortillas and drenched in that dreamy green chile sauce, these burritos are both comforting and flavorful, making them an instant hit for family dinners or when you're craving a little extra TLC. This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, allowing you to switch up the protein or cheese to suit your taste buds. Plus, they’re quick to assemble, ready in about 30 minutes! Curious about how to whip up this deliciousness? Let’s get into it!
Why You'll Love Smothered Burritos
Comforting, Soul-Warming Meal: These Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos bring a cozy feel to your dinner table, perfect for family gatherings or a peaceful night at home.
Quick to Prepare: In just about 30 minutes, you can serve a satisfying dish without any hassle, making them great for busy weeknights.
Versatile Options: Whether you prefer chicken, beef, or a vegetarian twist, feel free to customize to your liking. You can even mix and match cheeses for a unique flavor profile!
Decadent Green Chile Sauce: The rich, creamy sauce elevates these burritos, with just the right amount of heat to enliven your taste buds.
Crispy Perfection: After a bake and a quick broil, you’ll enjoy the delightful contrast of crispy tortillas wrapped around a gooey, cheesy filling. Want ideas for sides? Check out these delicious serving suggestions!
Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Ingredients
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For the Burrito Filling
• Cooked Chicken – 3 cups – Provides the primary protein; substitute with ground beef, turkey, or sautéed vegetables for a vegetarian option.
• Salsa – 1 ½ cups – Adds flavor and moisture; for better texture, use your favorite chunky salsa.
• Ground Cumin – 1 ½ teaspoons – Offers warm, earthy flavor that enhances the filling.
• Dried Oregano – ½ teaspoon – Enhances the aromatic profile for a flavorful bite.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – 1 ¼ cups – Contributes creaminess and richness; substitute with Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack for a different taste.
• Green Onions – 2, chopped – Adds freshness and crunch to the filling.
• Flour Tortillas – 6 large – Serves as the wrap; gluten-free tortillas can also be used for a wider audience. -
For the Green Chile Sauce
• Butter – 3 tablespoons – Essential for creating a rich and creamy green chile sauce.
• All-purpose Flour – 3 tablespoons – Thickens the green chile sauce for a delightful texture.
• Minced Garlic – 1 clove – Provides depth of flavor in the sauce.
• Low-sodium Chicken Broth – 2 cups – Serves as the flavorful base for your sauce.
• Diced Green Chilies – 4 ounces (mild) – Offers the distinctive green chile flavor you crave in Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos.
• Sour Cream – ½ cup – Adds creaminess to the sauce; can be omitted if desired.
• Salt and Black Pepper – To taste – Enhances overall flavors, making every bite irresistible. -
For Finishing Touches
• Olive Oil – For brushing – Helps the burritos crisp up beautifully during baking.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). While it warms up, line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. This will make for easier cleanup later and ensure your burritos bake evenly, resulting in the perfect golden-brown crust for your Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, salsa, ground cumin, dried oregano, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Stir until fully combined, ensuring the flavors meld together. This mixture serves as a savory filling that enhances the comfort of your burritos, ready to be wrapped up in the next step.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out your large flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon about ½ cup of the chicken filling onto the center of each tortilla. Fold the sides in and roll them tightly to enclose the filling. Place the rolled burritos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet, setting the stage for a delightful bake ahead.
Step 4: Bake for Crispiness
Brush the tops of the burritos lightly with olive oil to promote a golden, crispy texture. Bake in your preheated oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until they are golden brown and the tortillas feel slightly crisp to the touch. This step is crucial for achieving that satisfying crunch in your Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos.
Step 5: Make the Green Chile Sauce
While your burritos are baking, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the all-purpose flour, cooking for about a minute until bubbly. Gradually add the low-sodium chicken broth, followed by minced garlic, diced green chilies, and season with salt and pepper. Stir until the sauce thickens, then mix in sour cream for added creaminess.
Step 6: Broil for Extra Flavor
When the burritos are baked, remove them from the oven and spoon the prepared green chile sauce generously over each one. Sprinkle additional shredded cheddar cheese on top. Place the burritos back in the oven under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese bubbles beautifully and serves to enhance the flavors of your Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once broiled to perfection, carefully take the Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos from the oven. Serve them hot with your favorite sides such as Mexican rice or refried beans. They are perfect for a cozy family meal or to impress guests at your next gathering, ensuring a delightful culinary experience wrapped in each bite.
Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Variations
Feel free to play around with these comforting burritos, customizing to your heart's content for a unique experience with every bite!
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Protein Swap: Change out chicken for ground beef, turkey, or sautéed veggies for a deliciously different meal. Each protein brings its own flavor profile, enhancing the dish in a delightful way.
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Cheese Variations: Use Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack instead of cheddar for a fun twist. Mixing cheeses can create an unforgettable layer of flavors that caters to every cheese lover's dream!
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace the meat with a colorful mix of bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These veggies not only add great taste but also create a vibrant, healthy dish that makes everyone's heart smile.
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Spice Level Up: Want a kick? Add diced jalapeños or spicier green chilies to the filling or sauce. This can ignite your taste buds and satisfy your craving for heat!
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Gluten-Free Options: Substitute traditional flour tortillas with gluten-free versions to accommodate dietary needs, making every guest feel welcomed and included at your table.
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Sauce Alternatives: If you're in the mood for something with a twist, try a creamy avocado sauce instead of green chile. Its creamy texture will still satisfy while adding an unexpected twist.
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Freezing for Later: Assemble unbaked burritos, wrap them tightly, and freeze for easy meals later. They're perfect for hectic days when you crave warmth and comfort in a pinch.
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Breakfast Burritos: Make them breakfast-ready by adding scrambled eggs and cheese to the filling. These burritos become a delightful breakfast option that keeps you energized throughout the morning!
Excited to see how these variations bring your burrito cravings to life? The only limit is your imagination!
What to Serve with Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos
Elevate your meal with delightful sides that perfectly complement the creamy, zesty flavors of these irresistible burritos.
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Mexican Roasted Corn Salad: A fresh, vibrant dish that adds sweet and savory notes, enhancing the overall flavor experience. The crunch of corn and a hint of lime elevates every bite.
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Refried Beans: Creamy and rich, refried beans provide a hearty complement to the burritos, offering a satisfying, protein-packed side that balances the meal.
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Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip brings a refreshing element while adding a luxurious texture that harmonizes delightfully with the spicy green chile burritos.
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime adds a zesty, fresh touch that cleanses the palate and rounds out the meal perfectly. It also offers a beautiful contrast to the burritos’ richness.
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Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa packs a punch of flavor and brightness, providing a refreshing counterbalance to the burritos. Serve it on the side for a crisp and lively addition.
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Chips and Salsa: A classic pairing that introduces crunchy texture and an explosion of flavors, perfect for snacking while enjoying the main dish.
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Fresh Side Salad: A mixed greens salad with tomatoes and a light vinaigrette adds an element of crisp freshness, which beautifully balances the warm, comforting burritos.
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Margaritas: A tangy glass of margarita can enhance the experience, offering a refreshing and vibrant contrast that pairs nicely with the rich flavors of the burritos.
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Flan or Tres Leches Cake: Finish on a sweet note with a light dessert that provides a creamy, indulgent ending to this comforting meal. The subtle sweetness pairs perfectly with the burritos’ savory kick.
Expert Tips for Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos
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Use Leftover Chicken: Opt for leftover rotisserie chicken to save time and add incredible flavor, making preparation effortless.
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Balance the Spice: If you love heat, experiment with spicier green chiles or add sliced jalapeños to the filling for a delightful kick.
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Crispy Tortillas: To prevent sogginess, brush your tortillas lightly with olive oil before baking, ensuring a perfect, crispy exterior for your Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos.
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Don’t Overfill: Avoid overstuffing the tortillas to make them easier to roll and prevent any spills while baking.
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Prepare in Advance: Assemble the burritos ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for quick dinners. Just bake them when you're ready to enjoy!
Make Ahead Options
These Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can assemble the burritos and store them in the fridge up to 24 hours in advance, simply wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or place them in an airtight container to maintain quality. Alternatively, you can freeze unbaked burritos for up to three months; just be sure to thaw them overnight in the fridge before baking. When you're ready to enjoy, bake the refrigerated burritos directly from the fridge or frozen for longer (adding extra time) and then top with the creamy green chile sauce before broiling. This way, you'll have comforting, delicious burritos ready with minimal effort on busy weeknights!
How to Store and Freeze Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos
Fridge: Keep leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through for best results.
Freezer: Assemble unbaked burritos and wrap tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: From frozen, bake at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until heated through. For extra crispy tortillas, broil for a few minutes at the end, then serve your Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos hot!
Avoid Sogginess: If refrigerating for later, place sauce separately to maintain the burrito’s texture. Just spoon it on when ready to enjoy!
Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for my burritos?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and tenderness, I recommend using leftover rotisserie chicken or cooking your own chicken breast seasoned with your favorite spices. Make sure the chicken is cooked through and shredded into bite-sized pieces for easy filling.
How long can I store my leftover burritos in the fridge?
Very! Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat them in the microwave or oven until they're heated through. If you want to recreate that crispiness, consider baking them in the oven.
Can I freeze my Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos?
Absolutely! To freeze, assemble the burritos but do not bake them. Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. These can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, simply bake them from frozen at 350°F for 30-35 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
What should I do if my filling is too dry?
In that case, you can mix in a little extra salsa or broth into the filling before assembling the burritos. This adds moisture and flavor! If you find that the green chile sauce comes out too thick, just whisk in a bit more broth until desired consistency is achieved.
Is this recipe suitable for people with gluten sensitivities?
Definitely! You can easily make gluten-free Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos by substituting regular flour tortillas with gluten-free tortillas. Just be sure to check the packaging to ensure they are certified gluten-free, allowing everyone to enjoy this delicious meal.
How can I adjust the spice level of my burritos?
To cater to your spice preference, you can use spicy diced green chilies instead of mild or add sliced jalapeños to the filling. The more the merrier—you can always start with a little and add more to taste as you go!
Indulgent Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos to Savor
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cooked chicken, salsa, ground cumin, dried oregano, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions.
- Lay out the large flour tortillas and spoon about ½ cup of the chicken filling onto the center of each tortilla. Fold the sides in and roll tightly.
- Brush the tops of the burritos lightly with olive oil and bake for 20 to 25 minutes until golden brown.
- Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in flour, then add chicken broth, minced garlic, and green chilies. Stir until thickened and mix in sour cream.
- Spoon the green chile sauce over the baked burritos and sprinkle additional cheese. Broil for 2 to 3 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides.
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