If you're looking for a hearty, flavorful dish that can be prepared with ease, look no further than these Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos. With tender baked chicken, melted cheddar cheese, and a rich green chili sour cream sauce, these burritos offer an indulgent, comforting meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or feeding a crowd. The best part? These burritos can be prepared ahead of time, making your evening cooking routine even simpler.

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This recipe combines the mild, savory flavors of baked chicken with the satisfying texture of burrito-size tortillas. The shredded chicken is wrapped up with sharp cheddar cheese, and the entire dish is topped with a creamy green chili sauce that ties everything together. The sauce, made with chicken broth, sour cream, and just the right amount of mild spice from green chilies, adds a luscious creaminess that elevates this burrito to the next level.

What makes these Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos even better is their versatility. You can easily customize the spice level by adding hot sauce to the green chili sauce or changing up the toppings to suit your preferences. Go for classic additions like diced tomatoes, avocado, or guacamole, or try crispy tortilla strips for a delightful contrast in texture. Serve with a side of chips and salsa, and you have a satisfying, complete meal.

These burritos also store well, making them a great option for meal prep. You can bake the burritos in advance, refrigerate or freeze them, and reheat when you’re ready to serve. It’s a simple, yet delicious way to have a stress-free dinner on the table without much effort.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving - 1 Burrito):

• • - Calories: 470 kcal
  • - Protein: 28g
  • - Fat: 25g
  • - Carbohydrates: 32g
  • - Fiber: 3g
  • - Sugars: 3g
  • - Sodium: 680mg

Storage Tips:

- Store leftover burritos wrapped in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Burritos can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

- Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through or microwave for 2-3 minutes.

Fun fact:

The practice of rolling tortillas around ingredients has been around for centuries. Burritos originated in the northern parts of Mexico, where their portability made them a favorite meal. Workers and travelers would fill tortillas with various meats, beans, and sauces, packing in energy for long journeys. Today, the modern burrito has become an incredibly versatile dish that is enjoyed worldwide. Smothered versions, like this recipe, give an extra layer of comfort with a cheesy topping that brings everything together in one satisfying bite.

Burritos offer more than just a delicious meal—they also provide a history lesson about culinary evolution. The concept of wrapping food in tortillas dates back to ancient Mesoamerica, long before modern burritos became popular in the U.S. However, the version we know today evolved in Mexican-American communities, particularly in California and Texas. Initially, burritos were a simple blend of meat and beans. Over time, they became larger and filled with a variety of ingredients, ranging from rice to guacamole, reflecting the multicultural influences in the U.S. Smothered burritos, in particular, are a twist on the traditional burrito. They take the basic concept and elevate it with a blanket of sauce and cheese, making them a cozy comfort food favorite. The balance between the rich sauce and the filling inside is key—while burritos can be stuffed with almost anything, it’s the combination of creamy sauce and flavorful chicken that really makes this dish stand out. And did you know that the shape of the burrito—round and compact—is what allows it to retain its warmth, making it an ideal dish for preparing in advance and reheating without losing flavor or texture?

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Serving Suggestions:

- Top with diced tomatoes, avocado, or guacamole for added freshness and flavor.

- Serve with tortilla chips and salsa or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.

- For a spicy kick, garnish with sliced jalapeños or drizzle with hot sauce.

- Add a dollop of sour cream to balance out the richness of the cheesy sauce.

Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Ingredients:

• - 2 Large Chicken dsBreasts (Seasoned with Salt, Pepper, and Olive Oil, Then Baked) - may substitute 2 cups of leftover roasted or rotisserie chicken
• - 6 Burrito-Size Tortillas (Raw or Undercooked Preferred)
• - 1 Cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• - Olive Oil or Nonstick Cooking Spray

Cheesy Green Chili Sour Cream Sauce:

• - 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• - 1 Tablespoon Butter
• - 3 Tablespoons Flour
• - 2 Cups Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Warmed
• - 1/2 Teaspoon Cumin
• - 1/4 to 1/2 Teaspoon Salt
• - 1/4 Teaspoon Pepper
• - 1/2 Cup Sour Cream
• - 1/2 of a 4 oz. Can Mild Chopped Green Chilies (Adjust to Taste)
• - 1/2 Cup Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese
• - Hot Sauce to Taste (Optional)

Optional Toppings:

• - Tomatoes
• - Avocados/Guacamole
• - Cilantro
• - Salsa
• - Tortilla Strips or Chips

Instructions:

1. Heat the oven to 375°F. Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and olive oil, then bake for 20-25 minutes or until fully cooked and juicy. Shred the chicken.

2. Spread 2-3 tablespoons of the shredded chicken onto each tortilla. Add shredded cheddar cheese on top of the chicken, then roll the burritos tightly. Place the burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish. Brush the tops with olive oil or spray with nonstick cooking spray.

3. Bake the burritos for 15-20 minutes, or until the tortillas are golden and crispy. If using raw tortillas, they may take an additional few minutes to cook through.

4. While the burritos are baking, heat olive oil and butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until golden and fragrant. Slowly whisk in the warm chicken broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce thickens, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the sour cream, green chilies, and cheddar cheese until melted and smooth. Season with hot sauce if desired.

5. Remove the burritos from the oven and generously pour the cheesy green chili sour cream sauce over the top. Garnish with fresh tomatoes, avocado, cilantro, salsa, or tortilla strips as desired.

These burritos are more than just a meal—they're an experience of flavors and textures, perfect for any night you need a little extra comfort on your plate. Whether you’re making them ahead for an easy weeknight dinner or serving them up for friends and family, these Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos will leave everyone satisfied and eager for seconds!