Taco Bell Chicken Burrito Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about biting into a warm, flavorful Taco Bell Chicken Burrito, where the tender chicken, creamy sauce, and perfectly seasoned rice come together in a soft tortilla. It’s one of those meals that feels indulgent yet approachable, perfect for recreating at home.

My love for this recipe began when I realized I could enjoy all the deliciousness of a Taco Bell burrito without leaving the house. After a few kitchen experiments, I nailed a copycat version that my family loves. It’s quick, easy, and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep!

Why You’ll Love This Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Get ready to elevate your Taco Tuesday with this easy homemade burrito recipe! Here’s why you’ll want to keep this one in your rotation:

First, it’s incredibly easy to make. With simple ingredients and a streamlined process, you can whip up these burritos in under 30 minutes. No waiting in the drive-thru required!

Second, it’s customizable. Whether you prefer extra cheese, a spicier sauce, or swapping in your favorite toppings, this recipe is versatile enough to suit your taste.

Third, it’s budget-friendly. By making it at home, you can create restaurant-quality burritos for a fraction of the cost, feeding a family of four for less than $15.

Finally, it’s perfect for meal prep. Make a batch ahead of time, wrap them tightly in foil, and store them in the fridge or freezer for quick lunches or dinners during the week.

Ingredients Notes

The secret to nailing this Taco Bell Chicken Burrito lies in using the right combination of ingredients. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work perfectly. Dice the chicken into small pieces for easy wrapping.
• Taco Seasoning: A store-bought packet works great, but you can also make your own blend with chili powder, cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for a personalized touch.
• Rice: The seasoned rice in the burrito is key. Use white or brown rice, and cook it with a splash of lime juice and cilantro for authentic flavor.
• Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend adds a melty, gooey texture that ties everything together.
• Sour Cream Sauce: Mix sour cream with a dash of hot sauce or a squeeze of lime for that tangy, creamy element.
• Tortillas: Look for large, burrito-sized flour tortillas that are soft and pliable for easy wrapping.
• Optional Toppings: You can include extras like refried beans, guacamole, or fresh pico de gallo to make the burritos even more filling.

Special equipment: A non-stick skillet and a rice cooker (optional) make the process even smoother, but a basic pot and frying pan will do the trick.

How To Make This Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Making this delicious burrito at home is easier than you think. Follow these simple steps for a foolproof copycat recipe:

1. Cook the Chicken: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken and sprinkle with taco seasoning. Cook until the chicken is golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Prepare the Rice: While the chicken cooks, prepare your rice according to package instructions. Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt for that signature Taco Bell flavor.
3. Assemble the Sour Cream Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together sour cream and a splash of hot sauce or lime juice. Adjust the heat level to your liking.
4. Warm the Tortillas: Gently heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds to make them pliable and easier to fold.
5. Assemble the Burritos: Lay a tortilla flat and add a generous scoop of rice, a handful of chicken, a sprinkle of cheese, and a dollop of sour cream sauce. If you’re adding extras like beans or guacamole, layer those in too.
6. Wrap It Up: Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it tightly from bottom to top to form a burrito. Place seam-side down to keep it secure.
7. Optional Toasting: For an extra crispy exterior, toast the burrito in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side.

This recipe makes about 4 hearty burritos and can easily be doubled if you’re feeding a crowd. Expect to spend about 25 minutes from start to finish.

Storage Options

Leftovers? No problem! These burritos store beautifully:

• Refrigerator: Wrap the burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: For longer storage, wrap the burritos in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep well for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: For refrigerated burritos, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes. If frozen, microwave for 4-5 minutes, flipping halfway through, or bake in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes.

Variations and Substitutions

This burrito recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Here are some fun ways to mix things up:

• Swap the Protein: Use shredded rotisserie chicken, ground beef, or even grilled shrimp for a different twist.
• Make It Vegetarian: Skip the chicken and load up on black beans, pinto beans, or even roasted veggies like bell peppers and zucchini.
• Amp Up the Spice: Add jalapeños, a drizzle of hot sauce, or spicy shredded cheese for a fiery kick.
• Go Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free tortillas or serve the filling over rice in a burrito bowl instead.
• Add More Veggies: Toss in shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, or sautéed onions and peppers for extra crunch and flavor.

Experiment with your favorite flavors and create a burrito that’s uniquely yours!

Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own Taco Bell Chicken Burrito at home with this easy and delicious recipe. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner, a meal prep staple, or a fun family meal, this dish is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

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