Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Recipe

Who doesn't love a good burrito? They're packed with flavor, customizable, and oh-so-satisfying. But what if you could take the deliciousness of a burrito and combine it with the convenience of a slow cooker? Enter the slow cooker chicken burrito recipe. This method not only infuses your burritos with rich, savory flavors but also makes meal prep a breeze. Let's dive into this game-changing recipe and discover how you can make the perfect slow-cooker chicken burrito at home.

Ingredients

Essential Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 packet of taco seasoning
• 1 cup chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Flour or corn tortillas

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup shredded cheese
• 1/2 cup sour cream
• 1 avocado, sliced
• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges

Preparation Steps

Prepping the Chicken

Start by trimming any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs. If you're using chicken breasts, consider cutting them in half to ensure even cooking.

Preparing the Vegetables

Chop the onion and bell pepper into small, bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves finely. If you're using fresh tomatoes instead of canned, chop them up as well.

Mixing the Spices

In a small bowl, mix the taco seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer a bit more heat

, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the mix.

Cooking Process

Setting up the Slow Cooker

Place the trimmed chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the chopped onions, bell pepper, minced garlic, black beans, corn, and diced tomatoes on top of the chicken. Sprinkle the taco seasoning mix over the top. Finally, pour in the chicken broth to ensure the chicken stays moist and flavorful during cooking.

Cooking Duration and Temperature

Set your slow cooker to low and cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow, steady heat will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensure the chicken is tender and easy to shred.

Assembling the Burritos

Warming the Tortillas

About 15 minutes before you're ready to serve, warm your tortillas. You can do this by wrapping them in foil and placing them in a warm oven, or by heating them individually in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.

Filling the Burritos

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the slow cooker and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the other ingredients. Spoon the chicken mixture onto each warm tortilla. If you're using optional add-ins like cooked rice or shredded cheese, add them now. Roll up each tortilla, tucking in the sides as you go.

Serving Suggestions

Side Dishes to Complement

Serve your burritos with a side of Mexican rice or a simple green salad. For an extra treat, add a side of chips and guacamole.

Beverage Pairings

Pair your chicken burritos with a refreshing beverage like a cold beer, a tangy margarita, or a glass of iced tea.

Tips for the Perfect Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito

Choosing the Right Chicken Cuts

Both chicken breasts and thighs work well for this recipe. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, while breasts are leaner and shred easily.

Spice Level Adjustments

If you prefer a milder burrito, use plain diced tomatoes instead of those with green chilies. For a spicier kick, add extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.

Making it Vegetarian

Swap the chicken for extra beans, tofu, or a medley of roasted vegetables. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Variations of the Recipe

Spicy Chicken Burrito

Add extra jalapeños, hot sauce, and a bit more cayenne pepper to the seasoning mix for a fiery version of this recipe.

BBQ Chicken Burrito

Replace the taco seasoning with your favorite BBQ spice mix and add a bit of BBQ sauce to the chicken broth for a smoky, tangy twist.

Teriyaki Chicken Burrito

Use teriyaki sauce instead of taco seasoning and chicken broth. Add pineapple chunks and shredded carrots for a sweet and savory combination.

Storage and Reheating

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Tortillas can be stored at room temperature in a sealed bag.

Reheating Tips

Reheat the chicken mixture in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. If reheating tortillas, warm them in a dry skillet or microwave them for a few seconds.

Nutritional Information

Calories and Macronutrients

A typical slow cooker chicken burrito (without optional add-ins) contains approximately 350-400 calories, 30g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 10g fat.

Health Benefits

This recipe is rich in protein and fiber, thanks to the chicken and beans. It's also packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, making it a balanced and nutritious meal.

Conclusion

Creating a slow-cooker chicken burrito is a fantastic way to enjoy a flavorful, hearty meal with minimal effort. The slow cooking process ensures the chicken is tender and infused with all the delicious spices, while the combination of beans, corn, and vegetables adds a wonderful variety of textures and flavors. Plus, the versatility of this recipe means you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Whether you're cooking for a family dinner or preparing meals for the week, this slow-cooker chicken burrito recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Give it a try, and enjoy the convenience and deliciousness of a homemade burrito with the added ease of slow cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken. Just add an additional hour to the cooking time if using frozen chicken breasts or thighs.

How can I make it gluten-free?

Simply use gluten-free tortillas. Ensure that all canned ingredients and seasonings are certified gluten-free as well.

What are the best tortillas to use?

Both flour and corn tortillas work well. Flour tortillas are softer and easier to roll, while corn tortillas offer a slightly firmer texture and a different flavor.

How long can I store leftovers?

Leftover chicken mixture can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the mixture in an airtight container for up to 3 months.

Can I add other types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to add or substitute with kidney beans, pinto beans, or chickpeas for variety.