Shredded Chicken Burritos Recipes

By | May 6, 2023
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Shredded chicken burritos are a versatile and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed for any meal of the day. The combination of tender chicken, flavorful spices, and delicious toppings makes them a favorite among many. In this blog post, we will explore the history of shredded chicken burritos, the ingredients needed to make them, and several recipes to try.

The History of Shredded Chicken Burritos

The burrito, in general, is believed to have originated in Mexico in the early 1900s. However, the first written reference to the dish was in a Mexican cookbook from 1895. The term “burrito” means “little donkey” in Spanish, and it’s believed that the name came from the shape of the burrito, which resembles a donkey’s ear.

Shredded chicken burritos are a popular variation of the traditional burrito. Chicken has been a staple in Mexican cuisine for centuries, and shredded chicken is a great option for burritos as it’s flavorful, tender, and easy to prepare. The addition of spices, vegetables, and toppings makes the shredded chicken burrito a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ingredients for Shredded Chicken Burritos

The ingredients for shredded chicken burritos can vary depending on personal preferences and regional differences. However, there are some key ingredients that are essential for making a delicious and authentic shredded chicken burrito. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:

  1. Chicken – Shredded chicken is the star of the dish. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs. You can also use a rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy option.
  2. Spices – The spices used in shredded chicken burritos are what give them their signature flavor. Common spices used include chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano.
  3. Tortillas – Flour tortillas are the most common type of tortilla used for burritos. However, you can use corn tortillas as a gluten-free option.
  4. Beans – Black beans or pinto beans are commonly used in shredded chicken burritos. Canned beans are a quick and easy option, but you can also cook your own beans from scratch.
  5. Rice – Rice is often included in burritos for added texture and flavor. You can use white or brown rice.
  6. Vegetables – Vegetables such as onions, bell peppers, and tomatoes are commonly used in shredded chicken burritos.
  7. Cheese – Shredded cheese is a must-have topping for shredded chicken burritos. Cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese are great options.
  8. Toppings – Toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, salsa, and jalapenos can be added to your liking.

Recipe #1: Classic Shredded Chicken Burritos

This classic shredded chicken burrito recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1/2 cup salsa
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, mix together the shredded chicken, black beans, salsa, cilantro, cheddar cheese, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until soft and pliable.
  3. Spoon the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
  4. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up from the bottom to enclose the filling.
  5. Optional: wrap each burrito in foil and place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese.
    1. Serve hot with desired toppings.

    Recipe #2: Slow Cooker Shredded Chicken Burritos

    Using a slow cooker to cook the chicken for these burritos makes it easy and hands-off. The result is tender, juicy chicken that’s perfect for shredding.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 can dice tomatoes with green chilies
    • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon cumin
    • 1 teaspoon paprika
    • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 8 large flour tortillas
    • Optional toppings: sour cream, guacamole, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos

    Instructions:

    1. In a slow cooker, combine the chicken breasts, diced tomatoes with green chilies, black beans, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
    2. Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender.
    3. Use two forks to shred the chicken in the slow cooker.
    4. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until soft and pliable.
    5. Spoon the shredded chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
    6. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up from the bottom to enclose the filling.
    7. Optional: wrap each burrito in foil and place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to heat through.
    8. Serve hot with desired toppings.

    Recipe #3: Grilled Shredded Chicken Burritos

    Grilling the chicken for these burritos adds a delicious smoky flavor. This recipe also includes a homemade salsa verde to top the burritos with.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1 tablespoon chili powder
    • 1 teaspoon cumin
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 8 large flour tortillas
    • 1 avocado, diced
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
    • 1/4 cup diced red onion
    • 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
    • 1 lime, juiced
    • Salsa verde:
    • 6 tomatillos, husks removed and rinsed
    • 1 jalapeno, seeded and diced
    • 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
    • 1 lime, juiced
    • Salt and pepper to taste

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
    2. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
    3. Brush the chicken breasts with the spice mixture.
    4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and charred.
    5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then slice or shred.
    6. Warm the flour tortillas on the grill or in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until soft and pliable.
    7. To make the salsa verde, place the tomatillos and jalapeno on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until charred and softened. Alternatively, you can broil them in the oven.
    8. In a blender or food processor, combine the grilled tomatillos, jalapeno, cilantro, lime juice, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. 9. To assemble the burritos, spoon some of the salsa verde onto each tortilla.
      1. Add some of grilled chicken, diced avocado, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, and diced jalapeno.
      2. Squeeze some fresh lime juice over the top.
      3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up from the bottom to enclose the filling.
      4. Optional: wrap each burrito in foil and place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to heat through.
      5. Serve hot with additional salsa verde on top.

      Recipe #4: Shredded Chicken and Rice Burritos

      Adding rice to these burritos makes them even more filling and satisfying. You can use any type of rice you like, but we recommend using Mexican-style rice for extra flavor.

      Ingredients:

      • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
      • 1 tablespoon olive oil
      • 1 tablespoon chili powder
      • 1 teaspoon cumin
      • Salt and pepper to taste
      • 8 large flour tortillas
      • 2 cups cooked rice
      • 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
      • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
      • Optional toppings: salsa, sour cream, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapenos

      Instructions:

      1. Preheat the oven to 350°F.
      2. In a bowl, combine the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
      3. Brush the chicken breasts with the spice mixture.
      4. Bake the chicken for 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through.
      5. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes, then shred with two forks.
      6. Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds or until soft and pliable.
      7. To assemble the burritos, spoon some of the cooked rice onto each tortilla.
      8. Add some of the shredded chicken, black beans, and shredded cheddar cheese.
      9. Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up from the bottom to enclose the filling.
      10. Optional: wrap each burrito in foil and place in a 350°F oven for 10-15 minutes to heat through and melt the cheese.
      11. Serve hot with desired toppings.

      Conclusion

      Shredded chicken burritos are a delicious and easy meal that can be customized to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a classic version with beans and cheese, a slow-cooked version with tomatoes and spices, a grilled version with homemade salsa verde, or a filling version with rice and cheese, there’s a recipe out there for you. With these recipes, you can easily make a satisfying meal that the whole family will enjoy. So go ahead and give them a try!

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