If you are craving a flavorful, satisfying meal that comes together in a flash, you will absolutely love this Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos (Quick & Easy) Recipe. It combines tender ground chicken, aromatic spices, and vibrant veggies with gooey melted cheese, all wrapped up in a warm flour tortilla. Every bite is a delicious celebration of comfort and convenience, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a hearty meal without fuss. This recipe delivers incredible taste with minimal effort, turning simple ingredients into an irresistible feast you’ll want to keep in your weekly rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These straightforward, vibrant ingredients create a perfect balance of flavor, texture, and color. Each element plays its part, whether adding creaminess, a subtle kick, or satisfying heartiness.
- Avocado Oil or Olive Oil (1 tbsp.): Helps cook the chicken and vegetables beautifully without overpowering the flavors.
- Ground Chicken (8 oz.): Lean, mild, and packed with protein, it’s the star of the filling.
- Red Bell Pepper (1/2 cup, chopped): Adds sweetness and a refreshing crunch.
- White Onion (1/3 cup, chopped): Brings subtle sharpness that enhances depth.
- Jalapeño Pepper (1 tbsp., finely chopped, optional): For a little heat that wakes up your taste buds.
- Garlic Powder (1 tsp.): Infuses warmth and a touch of earthiness.
- Chili Powder (1 tsp.): Gives the filling a cozy, smoky spice.
- Kosher Salt or Sea Salt (1/2 tsp. or 1/4 tsp. plus more to taste): Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors.
- Ground Cumin (1/2 tsp.): Adds subtle nuttiness and complexity.
- Cooked Rice (1 cup): Provides hearty texture and soaks up the savory juices perfectly.
- Salsa Verde or Favorite Salsa (1/4 cup): Brings zesty brightness and moisture.
- Chipotle Sauce (1 tbsp.): Adds a smoky fire that makes every bite exciting.
- Shredded Cheddar Cheese (1 cup): Melts into creamy pockets of flavor.
- Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (1 cup): Combines with cheddar for gooey, melty goodness.
- Extra Large Flour Tortillas (4 burrito-sized): Perfectly soft and pliable for wrapping up your delicious filling.
How to Make Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos (Quick & Easy) Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Ground Chicken and Veggies
Start by heating the avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Toss in the ground chicken, red bell pepper, white onion, and jalapeño if you’re using it. Add a pinch of salt to help bring out the natural flavors. Cook this mixture for about 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally and breaking up the chicken into small pieces as it browns evenly. This creates a savory base bursting with texture and freshness.
Step 2: Toast the Seasonings
Next, stir in the garlic powder, chili powder, kosher salt, and ground cumin directly into the pan. Let everything cook together for another 1 to 2 minutes so the spices bloom and infuse the filling with that signature smoky, aromatic vibe. This step really awakens the taste buds and redefines the dish.
Step 3: Combine Rice and Sauces
Now it’s time to add the cooked rice, salsa verde, and chipotle sauce to the skillet. Stir everything until it’s evenly mixed and coated with spicy, tangy sauciness. Turn off the heat, then taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You’re crafting the perfect melty, flavorful filling that’s ready to be wrapped up.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out an extra-large flour tortilla on a clean surface. Sprinkle about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese down the center, then spoon a generous 1/2 cup of the chicken and rice mixture on top. Add another 1/4 cup of shredded cheese over the filling. The cheese melts inside to create ooey-gooey pockets.
Step 5: Fold and Roll
Fold the two sides of the tortilla toward the center, then roll it up tightly from the bottom so all the filling stays snug inside. This wrapping technique ensures every bite holds together and tastes spectacular.
Step 6: Toast to Golden Perfection
Heat a clean nonstick skillet over medium heat and place the burrito seam side down. Let it toast until golden brown and crisp, then carefully flip to brown the other side. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft, cheesy interior.
Step 7: Repeat for Remaining Burritos
Repeat the assembling and toasting process with the remaining tortillas and filling. They come together quickly and look stunning on the plate.
Step 8: Serve Warm
Serve your Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos (Quick & Easy) Recipe warm, accompanied by your favorite toppings like sour cream, fresh salsa, or creamy guacamole. This meal is ready to be devoured!
How to Serve Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos (Quick & Easy) Recipe
Garnishes
Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro or green onions on top to brighten the flavors. A dollop of sour cream or a spoonful of creamy guacamole adds cooling richness that complements the smoky, spicy filling perfectly.
Side Dishes
Pair these burritos with a simple side salad or crunchy tortilla chips and salsa for texture contrast. Roasted corn or black beans also make wonderful accompaniments that align with the hearty, Mexican-inspired flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, slice each burrito in half diagonally and fan the halves on a colorful plate. You can also serve the filling in bowls for burrito bowls or wrap smaller tortillas for bite-sized party snacks. It’s a versatile recipe that adapts to your cravings.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover burritos wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents the tortillas from drying out.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months, perfect for quick meals later on.
Reheating
Reheat burritos in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven wrapped in foil until warmed through to keep the exterior crispy. Microwaving works too, but may produce a softer tortilla. Adding a few minutes under the broiler can help restore crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground chicken?
Absolutely! Ground turkey works just as well and offers a similar mild flavor. Just adjust cooking time if needed.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level is mild and perfectly balanced, especially if you omit the jalapeño. You can customize heat by adjusting jalapeño and chipotle sauce amounts.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, brown rice can be substituted, but you may want to cook it separately ahead of time as it takes longer to prepare.
What’s the best cheese mix for these burritos?
The combination of sharp cheddar and Monterey Jack creates a wonderful melting texture and flavor. Feel free to swap in mozzarella or pepper jack for variation.
Are these burritos freezer-friendly?
They freeze beautifully! Just wrap tightly and reheat from frozen for a convenient ready-to-eat meal anytime.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos (Quick & Easy) Recipe is one of those recipes that feels like a hug on a plate. Simple to prepare yet packed with layers of flavor, it becomes a crowd-pleaser everyone will ask for again. Whether you’re feeding family after a busy day or entertaining friends, these burritos offer unbeatable taste with little effort. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your new go-to comfort meal — I can’t wait to hear how much you love it!
Print
Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos (Quick & Easy) Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Description
These Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos are a quick and easy meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with flavorful seasoned ground chicken, sautéed peppers and onions, and melty cheese wrapped in soft flour tortillas, they offer a satisfying combination of spicy, cheesy, and savory tastes. Ready in just 25 minutes, these burritos make a delicious and comforting option for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables
- 1 tbsp. Avocado Oil or Olive Oil
- 8 oz. Ground Chicken
- 1/2 cup chopped Red Bell Pepper
- 1/3 cup chopped White Onion
- 1 tbsp. finely chopped Jalapeño Pepper (optional)
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 tsp. Garlic Powder
- 1 tsp. Chili Powder
- 1/2 tsp. Kosher Salt or 1/4 tsp. Sea Salt, plus more to taste
- 1/2 tsp. Ground Cumin
Other Ingredients
- 1 cup Cooked Rice
- 1/4 cup Salsa Verde or your favorite salsa
- 1 tbsp. Chipotle Sauce
- 1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese
- 4 Extra Large Flour Tortillas (burrito-sized)
Instructions
- Cook the chicken and vegetables: Heat 1 tbsp. avocado oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the ground chicken, chopped red bell pepper, white onion, and optional jalapeño pepper. Add a pinch of salt and cook for about 7 to 8 minutes, breaking up the ground chicken as it cooks until fully browned and vegetables are softened.
- Toast seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, chili powder, kosher salt, and ground cumin. Cook the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes to toast and release the flavors of the spices.
- Combine rice and sauces: Add the cooked rice, salsa verde, and chipotle sauce to the skillet. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly. Turn off the heat and taste the filling, adjusting seasoning if necessary.
- Assemble the burritos: Lay a flour tortilla flat. Add about 1/4 cup of shredded cheese along the center, then pile on a heaping 1/2 cup of the chicken and rice filling. Sprinkle with another 1/4 cup of shredded cheese on top.
- Roll the burritos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center and then roll tightly from one end to the other, enclosing all filling inside.
- Toast the burritos: Place the burrito seam side down on a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Toast until the burrito is golden brown on the bottom, then carefully flip and toast the other side until golden and cheese inside is melted.
- Repeat for remaining burritos: Prepare the rest of the burritos following the same assembly and toasting process.
- Serve warm: Serve the cheesy ground chicken and rice burritos warm with your favorite sides such as sour cream, salsa, or guacamole.
Notes
- Use cooked rice from a previous meal or prepare it ahead to save time.
- Adjust the jalapeño quantity or omit it if you prefer less heat.
- For a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use plant-based alternatives.
- Store any leftovers wrapped tightly and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave.
- Extra toasting adds a pleasant crispy texture to the burritos.
