Easy Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe

Sizzling Easy Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe for Taco Tuesday

Crafting a mouthwatering easy spicy chicken burrito brings excitement to your weeknight dinner routine.

Weekends call for bold flavors that dance across your palate.

Tender chicken marinated in fiery spices promises a culinary adventure.

Jalapeños and smoky seasonings create layers of intense taste sensations.

Mexican-inspired ingredients blend harmoniously in this simple yet spectacular dish.

Crisp tortillas wrap around savory, spice-infused chicken for maximum deliciousness.

Easy Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe That Packs a Punch

  • Perfect for busy families needing delicious dinner solutions in under 30 minutes.
  • Packed with vibrant, bold flavors that transform ordinary chicken into an exciting culinary experience with layered spices.
  • Easily adaptable recipe allowing personal touches like extra cheese, different beans, or unique salsa variations to match individual taste preferences.
  • Simple cooking technique requiring basic kitchen skills and just one skillet, making it ideal for home cooks of all experience levels.

What Goes into Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe

Protein:
  • Chicken: Delicious main protein source, best with boneless and skinless chicken breasts or thighs. Choose fresh, high-quality meat for best flavor.
Spices and Seasonings:
  • Chili Powder, Paprika, Cumin, Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Red Pepper Flakes, Salt, Pepper: Blend of spices that adds warmth, depth, and kick to the chicken. Mix fresh, high-quality spices for maximum flavor impact.
Base and Fillings:
  • Tortillas: Soft wrap for holding all ingredients, works best with large flour tortillas. Look for fresh, pliable tortillas.
  • Rice, Beans, Corn: Hearty fillings that add texture and nutrition. Choose canned or freshly cooked options.
  • Cheese: Adds creamy richness and helps bind ingredients. Shredded cheddar or Mexican blend works great.
  • Salsa: Provides moisture and tangy flavor. Opt for fresh or jarred salsa based on preference.
  • Olive Oil: Used for cooking chicken and helps develop spice flavors.
Optional Toppings (Not Specified in Original Recipe):
  • Sour Cream, Guacamole, Cilantro, Hot Sauce: Additional ingredients to customize burrito to personal taste.

Rolling and Cooking Spicy Chicken Burritos

Step 1: Spice Up the Chicken

  • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat
  • Add chicken pieces
  • Sprinkle in
  • Chili powder
  • Paprika
  • Cumin
  • Garlic powder
  • Onion powder
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Salt
  • Black pepper

Cook and stir chicken until fully coated and heated through, about 3-4 minutes

Step 2: Prepare Warm Tortillas

Gently warm tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and flexible

Step 3: Build Your Flavor-Packed Burrito

Layer ingredients on the tortilla:
  • Cooked rice
  • Spiced chicken
  • Black beans
  • Corn kernels
  • Shredded cheese
  • Fresh salsa

Add any extra toppings like sour cream, guacamole, or chopped cilantro

Step 4: Wrap and Roll

Fold in sides of the tortilla

Tightly roll from the bottom, creating a sealed burrito

Step 5: Optional Crispy Finish

Place burritos seam-side down in a hot skillet

Toast each side until golden and crispy, about 1-2 minutes per side

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Slice burritos diagonally

Serve warm with additional salsa or hot sauce

Pro Tips for Better Spicy Chicken Burrito Results

  • Customize Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes and chili powder to match your heat tolerance, creating a personalized spicy experience.
  • Optimize Chicken Seasoning: Mix spices thoroughly before cooking to ensure even, flavorful coating on every chicken piece.
  • Smart Tortilla Technique: Warm tortillas briefly to prevent cracking and make wrapping easier, enhancing burrito structural integrity.
  • Meal Prep Magic: Cook extra chicken and store in refrigerator for quick future burrito assemblies or other Mexican-inspired dishes.
  • Balance Protein Options: Swap chicken with tofu, black beans, or shredded beef for dietary preferences or alternative protein sources.

How to Keep Spicy Chicken Burritos Fresh

  • Wrap individual burritos tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap, then place in an airtight container. Consume within 34 days for best quality and taste.
  • Individually wrap uncooked or cooked burritos in plastic wrap, then store in freezer-safe bags. Freeze up to 3 months for later enjoyment.
  • Unwrap foil, place burrito on microwave-safe plate, and heat for 1-2 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even warming.
  • Thaw in refrigerator overnight, then reheat in microwave or skillet. Add a splash of water to prevent dryness and maintain moisture.

Burrito Sides to Serve With This Spicy Favorite

  • Blend the burrito's spicy kick with a tangy margarita that complements the chicken's bold seasoning and cuts through the richness of cheese and beans.
  • Create a cool, crunchy side dish that balances the burrito's heat with bright, citrusy notes and provides a refreshing contrast to the warm, spicy filling.
  • Whip up a smooth, creamy dip that neutralizes the spiciness and adds a luxurious, velvety texture to enhance the overall dining experience.
  • Choose a crisp, light beer that cleanses the palate and offers a subtle maltiness that stands up to the burrito's robust flavors without overwhelming the dish.

Ideas to Remix Your Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe

  • Vegetarian Protein Swap: Replace chicken with black beans, tofu, or tempeh, seasoned with the same spice blend for a delicious meatless option.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas and ensure all seasonings and ingredients are certified gluten-free.
  • Low-Carb Alternative: Swap tortillas for large lettuce leaves or low-carb tortillas, and replace rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter meal.
  • Dairy-Free Option: Omit cheese or use dairy-free cheese alternatives like nutritional yeast or vegan cheese shreds to accommodate dairy-sensitive diets.

Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe Q&A

  • What spices give this chicken burrito its signature flavor?

The blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and red pepper flakes creates a bold, spicy taste that makes the chicken super flavorful and exciting.

  • How can I make the chicken more tender?

Cook the chicken over medium heat and stir frequently to ensure even cooking. Don’t overcook the chicken, as it can become dry and tough. Aim for about 3-4 minutes of cooking time.

  • Can I use different protein instead of chicken?

Absolutely! You can substitute chicken with ground beef, shredded pork, or even plant-based protein like black beans or tofu to match your dietary preferences.

  • What's the best way to prevent my burrito from falling apart?

When assembling, don’t overfill the tortilla. Fold in the sides first, then roll tightly from the bottom. This technique helps keep all the delicious ingredients securely inside the burrito.

Print
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Easy Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe

Easy Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 13 reviews

  • Total Time: 20 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Mouthwatering chicken burritos spice up classic Mexican comfort with zesty flavors and quick preparation. Packed with tender chicken, bold seasonings, and fresh ingredients, these burritos will satisfy hungry diners seeking a delicious culinary adventure.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein:

  • 2 cups (473 ml) cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
  • ½ cup (118 ml) black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1 cup (237 ml) shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

Grains and Base:

  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 cup (237 ml) cooked rice (white or brown)
  • ½ cup (118 ml) corn (optional)

Seasonings and Extras:

  • 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon (5 ml) chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon (2.5 ml) cumin
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) garlic powder
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) onion powder
  • ¼ teaspoon (1.25 ml) crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • ½ cup (118 ml) salsa or hot sauce
  • Optional: sour cream, guacamole, lettuce, diced tomatoes, jalapenos

Instructions

  1. Preheat a skillet with olive oil over medium temperature, creating a sizzling cooking surface for the protein.
  2. Introduce chicken pieces into the hot pan, generously coating with a vibrant blend of chili powder, paprika, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper for maximum flavor infusion.
  3. Continuously stir and sauté the chicken, ensuring even spice distribution and thorough cooking until the meat is completely heated and richly seasoned.
  4. While the chicken cooks, prepare tortillas by gently warming them in a dry skillet or microwave to enhance flexibility and prevent cracking during rolling.
  5. Create a delectable layering foundation by spreading fluffy rice as the first burrito base, followed by the spice-laden chicken.
  6. Add complementary ingredients like black beans, sweet corn kernels, shredded cheese, and zesty salsa to build complex flavor profiles.
  7. Carefully fold the tortilla’s sides inward, then smoothly roll from the bottom, creating a compact and secure burrito package.
  8. For an optional crispy exterior, place the assembled burrito seam-side down in a heated skillet, toasting each side until a golden-brown crust develops.
  9. Slice diagonally and serve immediately while warm, allowing the melted cheese and robust spices to tantalize the palate.

Notes

  • Swap out regular chicken for shredded rotisserie chicken to save time and add extra flavor depth.
  • Customize heat levels by adjusting red pepper flakes or using mild/hot salsa based on personal spice tolerance.
  • Create a lighter version by using whole wheat tortillas, adding more vegetables like bell peppers or spinach, and using low-fat cheese for a healthier alternative.
  • Prepare burrito components in advance and store separately in airtight containers for quick weeknight meal assembly, keeping ingredients fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snacks
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 600
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 22g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 12g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 69g
  • Fiber: 6g
  • Protein: 34g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
Ethan Miller

Ethan Miller

Founder & Lead Content Writer

Expertise

  • Recipe Development and Testing
  • Food Photography and Styling
  • Culinary Writing and Blogging
  • Ingredient Sourcing and Sustainability Practices

Education

Portland Community College

  • Degree: Associate of Applied Science in Culinary Arts
  • Focus: Comprehensive training in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food safety protocols.

Culinary Institute of the Pacific

  • Program: Certificate in International Cuisine
  • Focus: Exploration of global culinary traditions, flavor profiles, and plating artistry.

Ethan’s culinary journey began in his grandmother’s kitchen, where he first learned to play with flavors and ingredients. With formal training in culinary arts and a deep love for international cuisines, Ethan’s goal is to share the joy of cooking with others.

He believes food is all about creativity and bringing people together, one meal at a time. When he’s not experimenting with new dishes, he enjoys hiking in the Oregon wilderness and discovering fresh, local ingredients.

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