Name: Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos for a Cozy Dinner Night
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon Avocado Oil (or Olive Oil); 1 pound Ground Chicken; 1 medium Red Bell Pepper (diced); 1 medium White Onion (chopped); 1 medium Jalapeño Pepper (chopped); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder; 1 teaspoon Chili Powder; 0.5 teaspoon Kosher Salt; 0.5 teaspoon Ground Cumin; 2 cups Cooked Rice (white or brown); 0.5 cup Salsa Verde; 1-2 tablespoons Chipotle Sauce; 0.25 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese; 0.25 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese; 4 large Extra Large Flour Tortillas

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sizzling ground chicken mingled with the vibrant colors of fresh bell peppers, instantly transporting me to a cozy Tex-Mex eatery. There’s something magical about these Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos that makes them not just a meal, but a celebration of flavor and comfort. With just 25 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights while also allowing for endless customization—whether you like a fiery kick or a mild taste. Plus, the hearty filling and crispy tortilla make these burritos a crowd-pleaser that even the pickiest eaters will adore. How will you make your burrito uniquely yours?

Why Are These Burritos So Special?

Quick Preparation: These burritos come together in just 25 minutes, making them ideal for hectic weeknight dinners.
Endless Customization: You can easily swap proteins or veggies based on your family’s preferences, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied.
Hearty & Filling: With ground chicken and fluffy rice, each bite is packed with flavor and substance.
Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters will appreciate the delicious blend of cheese and spices. You can even explore variations like mixing in black beans or fresh cilantro for extra zest! If you’re craving another comforting meal, try my Cheesy Buffalo Chicken or a delicious Southern Cheesy Chicken.
Perfectly Crunchy: The crispy, golden-brown tortilla adds a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling.

Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos Ingredients

For the Filling
• Avocado Oil (or Olive Oil) – Perfect for sizzling the chicken and veggies, though any neutral vegetable oil will do.
• Ground Chicken – The star protein that keeps these burritos hearty; swap with ground turkey or lean ground beef if desired.
• Red Bell Pepper – Its sweetness harmonizes with spices; feel free to switch it out for green, yellow, or omit if not a fan.
• White Onion – Adds aromatic depth; switch to yellow onion for a slightly different flavor.
• Jalapeño Pepper – Brings the heat; skip it if you prefer a milder touch.
• Garlic Powder – Enhances flavor; fresh minced garlic is a tasty alternative.
• Chili Powder – Key for that signature Tex-Mex flavor that ties everything together.
• Kosher Salt – Essential for seasoning; adjust to your personal taste.
• Ground Cumin – Infuses warmth and depth into the burrito filling.
• Cooked Rice – Acts as a hearty base; both white and brown rice work wonderfully here.
• Salsa Verde – Adds tang and moisture; can easily be swapped with your favorite red salsa.
• Chipotle Sauce – Delivers a smoky kick; minced chipotles in adobo serve as a great substitute.
• Shredded Cheddar Cheese – Adds delicious creaminess; feel free to substitute with any meltable cheese you love.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese – For extra cheesy goodness; another cheese can be used if you prefer.
• Extra Large Flour Tortillas – Ensure your burritos are generously enveloped; burrito-sized tortillas are a must!

These Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos promise a flavor experience that will leave your family asking for seconds!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos

Step 1: Cook Chicken and Vegetables
In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of avocado oil, allowing it to shimmer. Add the ground chicken, diced red bell pepper, chopped onion, and minced jalapeño. Sauté for about 7-8 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and no longer pink, and the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

Step 2: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of chili powder, ½ teaspoon of kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon of ground cumin. Continue cooking for another 1-2 minutes, stirring well to ensure the spices coat the chicken and veggies evenly, enhancing the flavor of your Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos.

Step 3: Combine Filling
Turn off the heat and stir in 2 cups of cooked rice, ½ cup of salsa verde, and 1-2 tablespoons of chipotle sauce, mixing thoroughly until all ingredients are well-combined. Taste the filling and adjust seasoning if desired—this hearty mixture will form the delicious filling for your burritos.

Step 4: Build Burritos
On each extra-large flour tortilla, layer ¼ cup of shredded cheddar cheese, followed by ½ cup of the filling mixture, and then top it with another ¼ cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards and roll tightly into a burrito shape, sealing in the flavorful filling.

Step 5: Toast Burritos
In the same non-stick skillet, place the burrito seam-side down over medium heat. Toast for about 3-4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Flip the burrito and toast the other side for an additional 3-4 minutes, ensuring both sides are perfectly crispy and beautifully browned.

Step 6: Serve
Once toasted, remove the burritos from the skillet and allow to cool slightly. Slice them in half if desired, and serve with your favorite dips like sour cream, salsa, or guacamole. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside refried beans and crispy tortilla chips to enjoy the full Tex-Mex experience.

What to Serve with Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos

These delicious burritos are not only a satisfying main dish but also pair wonderfully with various sides that enhance their Tex-Mex flavors.

Crispy Tortilla Chips: Serve with a side of tortilla chips for that delightful crunch. They’re perfect for scooping up sauces!
Fresh Guacamole: The creamy avocado dip adds a luscious contrast to the spicy burrito filling. It’s a classic that never disappoints.
Zesty Salsa: A vibrant salsa, either red or green, will brighten up your plate and complement the cheesy goodness of the burritos beautifully.
Mexican Street Corn: Sweet corn drizzled with lime and cheese offers a tasty and colorful side. The sweetness pairs perfectly with savory flavors.
Spanish Rice: Serve some seasoned Spanish rice on the side to elevate your meal. It’s a classic pairing that adds extra comfort.
Chilled Mexican Salad: A refreshing salad with diced tomatoes, cucumbers, and cilantro will provide a fresh contrast. It lightens up the meal wonderfully.
Sour Cream Dip: A dollop of sour cream can cool down any spiciness in the burritos while adding a creamy texture. Perfect for additional flavor!
Ice Cold Margarita: For an adult twist, pair your meal with a zesty margarita. The citrus notes enhance the Tex-Mex experience delightfully.
Chocolate Flan: Finish the meal with a slice of rich, creamy chocolate flan for a sweet treat that marries wonderfully with your savory burritos.

Make Ahead Options

These Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos are a fantastic option for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners a breeze! You can prepare the filling (including cooked chicken, vegetables, rice, and sauces) up to 3 days in advance. Simply store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep it fresh. Additionally, you can assemble the burritos, wrap them tightly in plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before toasting. When you’re ready to enjoy, just toast the burritos in a skillet for a few minutes until golden brown. This way, you’ll have delicious burritos just waiting to be savored, saving you precious time while still tasting just as delicious!

Storage Tips for Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos

Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Allow burritos to cool fully before refrigerating to prevent sogginess.

Freezer: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil to avoid freezer burn. Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating: For best results, reheat in an oven or toaster oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes. This will crisp the tortilla while warming the filling.

Thawing: If frozen, allow to thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating to ensure even warming throughout.

Expert Tips for Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos

Ingredient Prep: Make sure all ingredients are chopped and ready before starting to cook to streamline the process and maintain freshness.
Heat Control: Use medium heat to cook the chicken evenly without burning the spices. High heat can cause the spices to scorch and your burrito filling to taste bitter.
Perfect Fold: Ensure you’re folding the burrito tightly to prevent any filling from escaping during cooking. A snug wrap keeps your Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos intact!
Crispy Finish: Always toast the burritos seam-side down first. This locks the filling inside and gives you that gorgeous golden brown crust.
Storage Tips: If making ahead, let the burritos cool completely before storing in the fridge for up to 4 days to avoid sogginess.
Freezing for Later: To freeze, wrap burritos tightly in plastic wrap, then foil. This prevents freezer burn and keeps them fresh for up to 3 months.

Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos Variations

Feel free to let your culinary creativity shine by customizing these burritos with delightful twists!

Dairy-Free: Substitute cheese with vegan cheese or omit entirely for a lighter filling.
Vegetarian: Exchange ground chicken for sautéed mushrooms and black beans, creating a hearty veggie burrito. You’ll be surprised at how filling and delightful this variation can be!
Extra Spicy: Add diced serrano peppers or an additional tablespoon of chipotle sauce for heat lovers. This fiery addition will elevate the flavor profile tremendously.
Cilantro-Infused: Mix in fresh chopped cilantro before building your burritos for a refreshing twist. The herb adds a vibrant note that beautifully brightens up the filling.
Quinoa Swap: Replace rice with cooked quinoa for a protein-packed alternative. It’s a fantastic way to infuse your burritos with extra nutrients while maintaining a satisfying texture.
Crunchy Touch: For added texture, sprinkle some crushed tortilla chips into the filling before rolling them up. This little touch gives a delightful crunch in every bite!
Flavor Boost: Incorporate roasted poblano peppers along with the other veggies for a smoky flavor. This will take your burritos to another level of deliciousness.

For other comforting favorites, don’t forget to check out my tasty Cheesy Beef and Potato Soup or try these delightful Chicken Sausage and Broccoli Orzo for a complete meal!

Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos Recipe FAQs

How do I select ripe ingredients for my burritos?
Absolutely! When selecting bell peppers, look for those with a firm, glossy skin and vibrant color. Avoid any that have dark spots or wrinkles. The onions should feel heavy and have tight, papery skin. For ripe jalapeños, choose firm green peppers without any blemishes. Freshness guarantees a delicious filling!

What are the best storage methods for leftover burritos?
Very! Allow your Cheesy Ground Chicken and Rice Burritos to cool completely before storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for about 4 days. If you want to keep them longer, wrapping them in plastic wrap and then foil will help preserve their flavor and texture in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze my burritos? If so, how?
Absolutely! To freeze your burritos, wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap, ensuring there are no gaps. Then wrap them again in aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. You can label them with the date to keep track of freshness. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

What if my burrito filling is too dry?
No worries! If your filling turns out dry, try mixing in a little extra salsa verde or a dollop of sour cream to add moisture and flavor. If you’re looking for a creamier texture, Greek yogurt is also a fantastic option—add it in small increments until you reach your desired consistency.

Are these burritos pet-friendly?
Very! However, be cautious with the ingredients. While plain cooked chicken is fine for dogs, avoid giving them the burritos with spices, especially jalapeños and chipotle sauce. These can be too spicy for pets. Always check with your vet before sharing human food with your furry friends.

Can I customize my burrito fillings?
Absolutely! The more the merrier! Feel free to mix in black beans, corn, or even chopped spinach to the filling for added nutrition and flavor. You can use ground turkey or go meatless with a combination of beans and vegetables. Get creative and make it your own!