Crock Pot Chicken Burrito Recipes

Hello, busy cooks and food enthusiasts! Today, we’re diving into the wonderful world of crock pot cooking with an easy, delicious crock pot chicken burrito recipe. Imagine coming home to the tantalizing aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken, slow-cooked to tender perfection, ready to be wrapped up in a warm tortilla. Sounds dreamy, right? Let’s get started!

The All-Time Favorite: Crock Pot Chicken Burritos

Crockpot chicken burritos are the epitome of convenience and flavor. With minimal prep and a slow cooker doing all the work, you can enjoy a hearty, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

To create a delicious crock pot chicken burrito, you’ll need:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup salsa (your favorite kind)
1 cup chicken broth
1 packet taco seasoning (or homemade mix)
1 can black beans (rinsed and drained)
1 can corn (drained)
1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh)
1 small red onion (diced)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
1/2 cup sour cream
8 large flour tortillas
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients for Extra Flavor

For an extra kick and flavor, consider adding:

Jalapeños for additional heat
Avocado slices or guacamole
Fresh cilantro
Lime wedges for squeezing

Preparing the Chicken

Setting Up the Crock Pot

Prepare the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts with salt, pepper, and taco seasoning.
Layer the Ingredients: Place the seasoned chicken breasts at the bottom of the crock pot. Add salsa, chicken broth, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes, red onion, and garlic on top.
Cook on Low: Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreddable.

Shredding the Chicken

Remove and Shred: Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the crock pot and shred it using two forks.
Mix Back In Return the shredded chicken to the crock pot and stir to combine with the juices and vegetables.

Perfect Rice Preparation

Selecting the Right Rice

Both white and brown rice work well. Brown rice adds a nutty flavor and more fiber, while white rice offers a more traditional taste.

Cooking the Rice to Perfection

Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water.
Combine the rice with 2 cups of water and a pinch of salt in a pot.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
Cook for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.

Flavorful Additions

Beans and Legumes

Black beans are a classic addition, but pinto beans or refried beans can also be used for a different texture.

Vegetables that Complement

Add some crunch and color with:

Bell peppers: Any color works great.
Onions: Red onions for a milder taste or white onions for a stronger flavor.
Corn: Adds a touch of sweetness and crunch.

Spices and Seasonings

Must-Have Spices

Enhance the flavor with:

Cumin: Adds warmth and depth.
Paprika: For a smoky touch.
Chili powder: For a bit of heat.

Optional Seasonings for Extra Zing

Garlic powder
Onion powder
Cayenne pepper for more spice

Tortilla Selection

Choosing the Best Tortilla

Flour tortillas are ideal for burritos because they are soft and pliable. Choose large, burrito-sized tortillas for easier wrapping.

Warming Up Your Tortilla

Warm tortillas are easier to roll and less likely to tear:

Heat a skillet over medium heat.
Warm each tortilla for about 30 seconds on each side.
Alternatively, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave for 20 seconds.

Assembling the Burrito

Layering the Ingredients

Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface.
Start with a layer of rice, followed by the crock pot chicken mixture.
Add beans, corn, bell peppers, and onions.
Top with cheese and a dollop of sour cream.

Tips for Rolling a Perfect Burrito

Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling.
Roll from the bottom up, tucking in the filling as you go.
Ensure it’s tight but not overstuffed to avoid tearing.

Cooking Techniques

Grilling the Burrito

To add a delicious char and melt the cheese perfectly:

Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium heat.
Place the burrito seam-side down and grill for 2-3 minutes per side until golden and crispy.

Baking for a Crispy Touch

For a crispy burrito:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Place burritos on a baking sheet and bake for 10-15 minutes until golden and crispy.

Serving Suggestions

Best Sides to Serve with a Burrito

Fresh salad with a tangy vinaigrette
Tortilla chips with guacamole or salsa
Mexican street corn (Elote)

Beverage Pairings

Classic margaritas
Iced tea with a splash of lime
Cold beer, like a Mexican lager

Healthier Alternatives

Making a Low-Calorie Version

Use brown rice instead of white rice.
Opt for low-fat cheese and sour cream.
Add more veggies to bulk up the burrito without extra calories.

Gluten-Free and Vegan Options

Use gluten-free tortillas.
Substitute chicken with tofu or tempeh.
Skip the cheese and sour cream or use dairy-free alternatives.

Storing and Reheating

Proper Storage Tips

Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap.
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Best Reheating Methods

Microwave: Unwrap and place on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1-2 minutes.
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place the wrapped burrito on a baking sheet and heat for 15 minutes.

Tips and Tricks

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overstuffing the burrito, which can cause it to tear.
Not warming the tortilla, making it less pliable.
Using too much liquid can make the burrito soggy.

Pro Tips for the Best Burrito Experience

Let the rice cool slightly before adding to the burrito to prevent it from steaming the tortilla.
Use a mix of cheeses for a more complex flavor.
Experiment with different salsas for unique tastes.

Conclusion

Recap of the Crock Pot Chicken Burrito Magic And there you have it! A delicious crock pot chicken burrito that’s sure to make meal prep a breeze. This recipe is versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the process and get creative with your ingredients!

Encouragement to Experiment

Cooking is all about exploring and having fun. So grab your crock pot, gather your ingredients, and start creating your perfect burrito today!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Freeze Crock Pot Chicken Burritos?

Absolutely! Wrap them tightly in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven for best results.

What Other Proteins Can I Use?

Feel free to substitute chicken with beef, pork, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein like beans or tofu.

How Do I Keep My Burrito from Falling Apart?

Ensure your ingredients aren’t too wet, and don’t overstuff the burrito. Warm tortillas are easier to roll and less likely to tear.

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White Rice?

Yes, brown rice is a great alternative. It’s higher in fiber and adds a slightly nutty flavor to your burrito.

What’s the Best Way to Reheat a Burrito?

For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes. Microwaving is quicker but can make the tortilla soggy.

Kitchen Recipes