Introduction
Hey there! Today, I want to share with you my favorite recipe for an easy spicy chicken burrito. This dish holds a special place in my heart because it always reminds me of the time I spent in Mexico, exploring the vibrant flavors of their cuisine. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll be hooked!
Why You’ll Love This
I make this when I want to add a little kick to my meals. The combination of succulent chicken, spicy seasonings, and flavorful toppings creates a taste sensation that will leave your taste buds begging for more. My family goes crazy for this because it’s not only delicious but also incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover chicken or add some excitement to your weekly meal plan!
Ingredients
For this easy spicy chicken burrito recipe, you will need:
– 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust according to your spice tolerance)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 large tortillas
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup shredded lettuce
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Lime wedges, for serving
Directions
1. Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on both sides.
4. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
5. Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
6. To assemble the burritos, spread a spoonful of cooked rice on each tortilla, leaving a border around the edges.
7. Top with a scoop of black beans, followed by the sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
8. Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
9. Roll up the burritos tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
10. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Notes
Feel free to customize your easy spicy chicken burrito with your favorite toppings. You can add guacamole, sour cream, or even some shredded cheese for an extra indulgence. Don’t worry if you don’t have a grill; you can easily cook the chicken on a stovetop pan or bake it in the oven. The key is to make sure the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred flavor.
Variations
If you’re looking to switch things up, here are a few variations you can try:
– Instead of chicken breasts, use boneless skinless chicken thighs for a juicier and more flavorful filling.
– Add some sliced bell peppers and onions to the grill for a delicious fajita-style burrito.
– For a vegetarian option, swap the chicken with grilled tofu or sautéed vegetables.
Equipment
While a grill or stovetop grill pan is ideal for this recipe, you can easily use a regular skillet or even a grill press to cook the chicken. Don’t worry if you don’t have all the fancy equipment; it won’t affect the deliciousness of the final result!
Storage
Though honestly, in my house, these easy spicy chicken burritos never last more than a day! However, if you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and tasty meal.
Serving Suggestions
I personally love serving these burritos with a side of Mexican rice and a dollop of creamy guacamole. It’s a match made in culinary heaven! You can also pair them with some crunchy tortilla chips and salsa for a complete Mexican feast.
Pro Tips
From my own mishaps in the kitchen, I’ve learned a few valuable lessons:
– Don’t rush the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to sit in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes will infuse it with incredible flavor.
– If you’re short on time, you can use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of grilling your own. Simply shred the chicken and warm it up before assembling the burritos.
– Feel free to adjust the spice level according to your preference. If you like it extra spicy, add more cayenne pepper. If you prefer it milder, reduce the amount or omit it altogether.
FAQ
Q: Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
A: Absolutely! You can assemble the burritos and wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or foil. Store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours, then simply reheat in the microwave or oven when you’re ready to enjoy.
Q: Can I freeze the burritos?
A: Yes, you can freeze the assembled burritos for up to 3 months. Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. To reheat, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator, then warm them up in the microwave or oven.
Q: Can I use flour tortillas instead of corn tortillas?
A: Absolutely! Flour tortillas work just as well in this recipe. Use your favorite type or whatever you have on hand.
Now that you have the recipe for these mouthwatering easy spicy chicken burritos, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed. Enjoy!
Easy Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe
Spicy and flavorful, this easy spicy chicken burrito is a delicious Mexican-inspired dish that combines succulent grilled chicken with aromatic spices, rice, black beans, and fresh toppings all wrapped in a warm tortilla. Perfect for adding a kick to your weekly meal plan!
Ingredients
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 large tortillas
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges, for serving
Directions
-
Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat.
-
In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
-
Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil and then sprinkle the spice mixture evenly on both sides.
-
Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing into thin strips.
-
Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until pliable.
-
To assemble the burritos, spread a spoonful of cooked rice on each tortilla, leaving a border around the edges.
-
Top with a scoop of black beans, followed by the sliced chicken, lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
-
Squeeze a fresh lime wedge over the filling for an extra burst of flavor.
-
Roll up the burritos tightly, tucking in the sides as you go.
-
Serve immediately and enjoy!