Let’s talk about this Chicken Avocado Burrito! It’s packed with juicy chicken, creamy avocado, and a sprinkle of cheese, all rolled up in a warm tortilla. Yum!
What I love about these burritos is how quick they are to make. Toss in all your favorite toppings, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only tasty but fun to eat! 🌯
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Flour Tortillas: Large flour tortillas are best for holding all your fillings. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you could use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead.
Chicken Breast: I love using boneless, skinless chicken breasts for their lean texture. You can substitute with grilled chicken thighs if you prefer a richer flavor, or even shredded rotisserie chicken for convenience.
Spices: The blend of chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder gives great flavor. If you want a milder taste, reduce the spices or use taco seasoning as an alternative.
Avocado: Fresh avocado is creamy and delicious! If you don’t have one, a store-bought guacamole works great too, but watch for added preservatives.
Sour Cream/Creama: I typically use sour cream, but Greek yogurt is a fantastic substitute for a healthier twist without losing creaminess.
How Do You Cook the Chicken to Perfection?
Cooking chicken well is vital for the best burrito. Start by seasoning your chicken with olive oil and spices, making sure to coat it evenly.
- Heat your skillet to medium-high before adding the seasoned chicken.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe cooking.
- After cooking, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing; this keeps it juicy.
Remember, cooking on medium-high heat allows for a nice sear without drying the chicken out!
What’s the Best Way to Roll a Burrito?
Rolling a burrito properly helps keep all those tasty fillings snug and prevents spills. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start with your tortilla on a flat surface, and add all the fillings in the center, leaving space on the edges.
- Fold in the sides of the tortilla over the filling.
- Tightly roll the tortilla from the bottom upwards while keeping the sides tucked in.
- Once rolled, grill it on a hot pan for a couple of minutes to get those delicious grill marks and seal it shut.
Practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if it takes a few tries!
How to Make a Chicken Avocado Burrito
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 2 large flour tortillas
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Fillings:
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced or mashed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream or crema
Extras (Optional):
- 1 lime
- Chopped jalapeño or hot sauce for extra spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Chicken Avocado Burrito can be prepared in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the chicken and ingredients, and about 20 minutes cooking and assembling the burrito. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by mixing the olive oil, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This is your seasoning blend. Coat the chicken breasts evenly with this mixture, ensuring every side is covered in those delicious spices.
2. Cook the Chicken:
Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken breasts. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). After that, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to keep it juicy.
3. Slice the Chicken:
Once the chicken has rested, slice it into thick strips or bite-sized pieces, ready to go into your burrito.
4. Warm the Tortillas:
To make rolling easier, warm the tortillas in a dry skillet for about 30 seconds or pop them in the microwave for a few seconds until they’re pliable. This step keeps your tortillas from tearing!
5. Assemble the Burrito:
Lay out each tortilla flat. Start by spreading a generous layer of cooked rice in the center. Next, add the seasoned chicken pieces on top of the rice.
6. Add the Fillings:
Now, layer on the mashed or sliced avocado and sprinkle the chopped cilantro over the chicken and rice for a fresh taste. Don’t forget to add a generous handful of shredded cheese!
7. Add the Creaminess:
Drizzle some sour cream or crema over the top to really elevate those flavors. If you’re feeling zesty, squeeze some lime juice over the fillings for a pop of freshness!
8. Roll It Up:
To roll your burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla and then tightly roll it from the bottom upwards, keeping everything tucked securely inside.
9. Grill the Burrito:
For a nice crispy finish, place the burrito seam-side down on a hot pan, cooking it for about 2-3 minutes on each side until it’s golden and has those lovely grill marks.
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully slice the burrito in half and serve it immediately with your choice of salsa or guacamole. Enjoy your hearty Chicken Avocado Burrito packed with great flavors!
Happy eating! 🌯
Can I Use Leftover Chicken for This Burrito?
Absolutely! Leftover rotisserie chicken or any pre-cooked chicken works perfectly. Just shred or chop it up and season as desired before adding it to your burrito.
What Can I Substitute for Avocado?
If you don’t have avocado, you can use guacamole or even a spread of cream cheese for a different flavor profile. Hummus is also an interesting, creamy alternative!
How Do I Store Leftover Burritos?
To store leftover burritos, wrap them tightly in foil or place them in an airtight container. They can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, wrap in a damp paper towel and microwave in 30-second intervals until heated through.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the chicken with grilled vegetables, black beans, or tofu. You can also add extra cheese or some tasty plant-based protein for a filling vegetarian option!
