There's nothing quite like biting into a warm, flavorful Taco Bell Chicken Burrito straight from your kitchen. The creamy sauce, tender chicken, and perfectly seasoned rice come together in a way that's both comforting and satisfying. It's the ultimate fusion of bold Mexican-inspired flavors and unbeatable convenience.
I first decided to recreate this classic when a late-night craving struck and no Taco Bell was nearby. After a few tweaks, this homemade version became a staple in my family. Now, we enjoy it regularly, whether for quick weeknight dinners or casual get-togethers. Ready to make it yourself? Let's dive in!
Why You'll Love This Taco Bell Chicken Burrito
Get ready to fall head over heels for this irresistible recipe. It’s not just a fast-food copycat—it’s a flavorful masterpiece you’ll crave over and over.
First off, this recipe is surprisingly easy to make. With just a few ingredients and a handful of steps, you’ll have a burrito that tastes just like the original (or maybe even better!) in no time.
It’s a perfect option for busy families or solo cooks. The recipe is budget-friendly and versatile, allowing you to use pantry staples like rice, shredded cheese, and chicken breast you already have on hand.
And let’s not forget the balance of textures and flavors. From the creamy sauce to the soft tortilla and the slight crunch of seasoned rice, every bite is a delight.
Whether you’re hosting friends, meal-prepping for the week, or simply satisfying a craving, this recipe is sure to become one of your go-to meals.
Ingredients Notes
The magic of this Taco Bell Chicken Burrito lies in its simple yet flavor-packed ingredients. Each component works together to create a burrito that’s both familiar and exciting.
Chicken: For this recipe, I recommend boneless, skinless chicken breasts. They cook quickly, shred easily, and soak up all the delicious seasonings. You can also use chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor.
Rice: Seasoned rice is a key component. I like to use long-grain white rice and cook it with a touch of taco seasoning for that authentic taste. You could also use a quick Spanish rice mix to save time.
Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend works perfectly here. The cheese melts beautifully, adding a creamy element to every bite.
Creamy Jalapeño Sauce: This sauce is the heart of the burrito. A blend of sour cream, mayonnaise, and diced jalapeños creates a tangy, slightly spicy flavor. You can adjust the heat level by adding more or fewer jalapeños.
Tortillas: Soft, large flour tortillas are essential for wrapping up all the deliciousness. Look for burrito-sized ones to make assembly easier.
If you have a non-stick skillet or griddle, it’s helpful for warming the tortillas and creating that signature lightly toasted finish.
How To Make This Taco Bell Chicken Burrito
Recreating this fast-food favorite at home is easier than you think. Let’s break it down step by step.
Start by cooking your chicken. Season it with taco seasoning, then grill or sauté until fully cooked and golden brown. Once it’s done, shred the chicken using two forks, ensuring all the pieces are bite-sized.
While the chicken is cooking, prepare your rice. If you’re using plain rice, stir in a sprinkle of taco seasoning or salsa for added flavor. Let it cook until fluffy and fragrant.
Next, make the Creamy Jalapeño Sauce. In a small bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, and finely diced jalapeños. Stir until smooth, then refrigerate to let the flavors meld together.
To assemble, warm the tortillas on a hot skillet for about 10 seconds per side. This makes them pliable and easier to wrap.
Layer the ingredients in the center of each tortilla: a scoop of seasoned rice, a generous portion of shredded chicken, a drizzle of Creamy Jalapeño Sauce, and a handful of shredded cheese.
Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up tightly from the bottom. Place the burrito seam-side down in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes to seal it and give it a slight crunch.
Repeat with the remaining ingredients, then serve warm with your favorite sides like chips and salsa or a fresh green salad.
Storage Options
Leftovers? No problem! This Taco Bell Chicken Burrito is easy to store and reheat, making it great for meal prep.
Wrap individual burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap, then store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze the wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. To reheat, unwrap the burrito and microwave for 2-3 minutes, flipping halfway. You can also heat it in a skillet for a crispy exterior.
The Creamy Jalapeño Sauce can be stored separately in a small airtight container in the fridge for up to a week.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Here are a few ways to switch it up:
- Protein Swap: Use ground beef, shredded pork, or even black beans for a vegetarian option.
- Rice Alternatives: Try cilantro-lime rice or quinoa for a different twist.
- Add Veggies: Sautéed peppers, onions, or corn make great additions.
- Spice It Up: Add a splash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce for extra heat.
- Low-Carb Option: Use a low-carb tortilla or wrap the filling in lettuce leaves for a lighter meal.
The possibilities are endless, so don’t be afraid to get creative!
Now that you have all the tips and tricks, it’s time to whip up your own Taco Bell Chicken Burrito. With its irresistible flavors and easy preparation, this recipe is bound to be a hit at your table. Enjoy!
PrintTaco Bell Chicken Burrito – Bex’s Kitchen Recipe
Recreate the delicious Taco Bell Chicken Burrito with this easy-to-follow recipe from Bex’s Kitchen. Packed with tender chicken, seasoned rice, and flavorful toppings, this homemade version is perfect for a fast, satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Assembling
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked white rice
- 1 cup shredded cooked chicken
- ½ cup refried beans
- ¼ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
- ¼ cup chopped tomatoes
- ¼ cup chopped lettuce
- 2 tbsp Taco Bell-style hot sauce
- 1 tsp taco seasoning
- 4 large flour tortillas
Instructions
- In a mixing bowl, combine cooked rice and taco seasoning.
- Warm refried beans in a small saucepan or microwave.
- Lay out a tortilla, spread a layer of refried beans, then add seasoned rice, shredded chicken, sour cream, cheese, tomatoes, and lettuce.
- Drizzle Taco Bell-style hot sauce over the filling.
- Roll the tortilla tightly into a burrito, tucking in the sides as you go.
- Heat the burrito in a skillet or microwave to warm it through.
- Serve and enjoy!
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for convenience.
- Customize the heat level by adjusting the amount of hot sauce.
- For added crunch, include tortilla strips or crushed chips.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 720mg
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