Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are the perfect blend of spicy, cheesy, and satisfying flavors wrapped in a warm tortilla. These burritos bring the excitement of Buffalo chicken wings to a handheld meal, making them an excellent choice for gatherings, game days, or a cozy family dinner. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create your own delicious burritos that are sure to impress.

Recipe Information

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Servings: 6-8 burritos
• Difficulty Level: Easy

Nutrition Information

• Calories per serving: Approximately 510
• Protein: 32 g
• Carbohydrates: 49 g
• Fat: 20 g
• Fiber: 4 g
• Sugar: 2 g
• Sodium: 850 mg

Why Make This Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are not just delicious; they’re also versatile and satisfying. Whether you’re serving them up for game day or packing them for a quick lunch, these burritos provide a welcome twist on classic flavors. The combination of crispy chicken, creamy cheese, and the zing of Buffalo sauce creates a mouthwatering experience. Plus, the opportunity to customize with your favorite toppings means you can make them your own!

How to Make Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

Ingredients:

For the buffalo chicken:

• 1 ½ lb (680 g) boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
• ⅔ cup buffalo wing sauce (store-bought or homemade; medium heat recommended)
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter

For the cheesy filling:

• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
• 4 oz (115 g) cream cheese, softened and cut into cubes
• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onions (scallions)
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (optional but recommended)
• 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (optional, for extra heat)

For the burritos:

• 6 –8 large flour tortillas (10-inch burrito size)
• 1 ½ cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime), warm
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen and thawed, or canned and drained)
• 1 cup shredded lettuce or finely shredded green cabbage
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (or ½ cup)
• 1 large tomato, seeded and diced (or ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered)

For serving and garnish:

• Extra buffalo sauce, to drizzle
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for drizzling or dipping
• Extra shredded cheese, for topping
• Lime wedges, for squeezing
• Extra chopped cilantro and green onions, for garnish

Directions:

Step 1: Cooking the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and cut it into small bite-size pieces (about ½–¾ inch).
2. In a bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until evenly coated.
3. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. When hot, add the seasoned chicken in an even layer.
4. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 7–9 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and lightly browned on the edges. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Reduce heat to low. Add the buffalo wing sauce and butter to the skillet, stirring until the butter melts and the chicken is thoroughly coated in the sauce.
6. Let it simmer on low for 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken and soak in flavor, then turn off the heat and set aside.

Step 2: Mixing the Cheesy Filling

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar cheese and shredded Monterey Jack (or pepper Jack).
2. Add the cream cheese cubes, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chopped green onions, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño if using.
3. While the buffalo chicken is still warm, spoon it (with some of its sauce) into the bowl with the cheese mixture.
4. Gently fold everything together until the cheeses begin to melt and you have a creamy, cheesy buffalo chicken mixture. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with a pinch of salt or a splash more buffalo sauce.
5. If the mixture seems too thick, add 1–2 tbsp of warm water or a bit more buffalo sauce to loosen it slightly. It should be creamy but not runny.

Step 3: Preparing the Burrito Components

1. Warm the cooked rice and season lightly with salt if needed. For extra flavor, squeeze in a bit of lime juice and stir in a spoonful of chopped cilantro.
2. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn. Pat them dry with a paper towel so the burritos do not get soggy.
3. Shred the lettuce or cabbage, and slice the red onion thinly. Dice the tomatoes, removing excess seeds and juice.

Step 4: Warming the Tortillas

1. Heat a large dry skillet over medium heat.
2. Warm each flour tortilla for 15–20 seconds per side until soft and pliable, stacking them in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and flexible.
3. Alternatively, wrap the stack of tortillas in foil and warm them in a 300°F (150°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Step 5: Assembling the Burritos

1. Lay one warm tortilla flat on a clean surface or plate.
2. In a horizontal line slightly below the center of the tortilla, add about ¼ cup of warm rice.
3. Spoon ⅓–½ cup of the cheesy buffalo chicken mixture on top of the rice.
4. Add a spoonful of black beans and corn.
5. Top with a small handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage, a few slices of red onion, and some diced tomato.
6. If desired, sprinkle on a little extra cheese and drizzle with a small amount of ranch or blue cheese dressing and/or extra buffalo sauce.

Step 6: Wrapping the Burritos

1. Fold the sides of the tortilla in toward the center, over the filling.
2. Holding the sides in place with your fingers, lift the bottom edge up and over the filling, then roll tightly away from you, keeping everything snug.
3. Place the wrapped burrito seam-side down on a plate or tray.
4. Repeat with remaining tortillas and filling until all burritos are assembled.

Step 7: Crisping the Burritos (Optional but Recommended)

1. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat it with a thin layer of oil or spray.
2. Place the burritos seam-side down in the skillet, without crowding them.
3. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the tortillas are golden brown and crisp and the cheese inside is fully melted.
4. Remove from the skillet and let rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing.

Step 8: Serving the Burritos

1. Slice burritos in half on a slight diagonal if you want a more dramatic presentation.
2. Serve with extra buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of cilantro and green onions on top.
3. Enjoy hot while the cheese is melty and the tortilla is crisp.

How to Serve Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

These burritos shine as the main star of any meal. Serve them with extra buffalo sauce for those who like it hotter, and offer ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. A side of crunchy veggies or a fresh salad can perfectly complement the dish. For a fun presentation, serve individual burritos on a platter surrounded by lime wedges and garnished with extra cilantro and green onions.

How to Store Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

To store leftovers, wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate them. They can last up to 3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, consider freezing them. Wrap each burrito tightly, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Expert Tips for Perfect Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

1. Choose Chicken Wisely: For the juiciest burritos, opt for thighs over breasts; they tend to remain more moist during cooking.
2. Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of Buffalo sauce according to your heat preference. You can also balance the spice with a little more cream cheese or sour cream in the filling.
3. Warm Ingredients: For the best results, ensure your filling (chicken, cheese, etc.) is warm when assembling to help melt the cheeses perfectly.
4. Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to add other ingredients to the filling, such as sautéed bell peppers, or experiment with different cheeses for a unique taste.
5. Don’t Skip Crisping: Crisping the burritos at the end adds a delightful texture that makes them even more enjoyable!

Delicious Variations

• Veggie Option: Swap the chicken for roasted vegetables or lentils for a delicious meatless version.
• Different Proteins: Try using shredded beef, pork, or even tofu for exciting flavor shifts.
• Wrap It Up Differently: Use whole wheat tortillas for a healthier twist or try flavored tortillas for added taste.
• Sauce Variants: Substitute Buffalo sauce with barbecue sauce for a smoky, sweet flavor.
• Add Fruits: Consider adding diced mango or pineapple to give a sweet twist that contrasts beautifully with the spiciness.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
  Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Assemble the burritos right before you’re ready to serve.

• Can I freeze assembled burritos?
  Yes, simply wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap, place them in an airtight container or freezer bag, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw and reheat.

• How do I prevent my burritos from getting soggy?
  Be sure to drain excess moisture from the beans and corn, and consider wrapping the burritos tightly before storing. Using warm, not hot, filling can help as well.

• Do I have to use rice?
  No! You can skip the rice altogether or substitute it with quinoa, cauliflower rice, or a green salad for a lighter option.

• How spicy are these burritos?
  The level of heat varies with the Buffalo sauce used. Adjust the amount of sauce to suit your taste, and use the jalapeño optional for extra heat!

Conclusion

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are a flavorful, satisfying, and fun meal option that everyone will love. With their creamy filling, crispy outer texture, and delicious Buffalo flavor, these burritos make for a perfect lunch, dinner, or snack. Following the steps in this guide will make you a wizard in the kitchen, impressing family and friends alike. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you’ll find it’s an exciting twist on traditional burritos that you’ll want to make again and again! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

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• Author: lydia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6-8 burritos 1x
• Diet: None

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Description

Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos blend spicy, cheesy flavors wrapped in a tortilla, perfect for gatherings or quick meals.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs, trimmed
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ⅔ cup buffalo wing sauce
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
• 4 oz cream cheese, softened
• ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
• ¼ cup finely chopped green onions
• ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
• 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (optional)
• 6 –8 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
• 1 ½ cups cooked rice
• 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 cup shredded lettuce or finely shredded green cabbage
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 large tomato, seeded and diced
• Extra buffalo sauce, for drizzling
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing, for serving
• Extra shredded cheese, for topping
• Lime wedges, for squeezing
• Extra chopped cilantro and green onions, for garnish

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Instructions

1. Pat chicken dry, cut into bite-size pieces, and toss with oil and seasoning. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat until done.
2. Add buffalo sauce and butter to the skillet, simmer briefly, then set aside.
3. Combine cheeses, sour cream, onion, cilantro, and jalapeño in a bowl. Fold in warm buffalo chicken.
4. Warm rice, rinse beans and corn, and prepare veggies.
5. Warm tortillas in a skillet or oven.
6. Assemble burritos with rice, chicken mixture, beans, corn, lettuce, onion, and tomato.
7. Wrap burritos snugly and crisp in a skillet if desired.
8. Serve with extra sauce, dressing, lime wedges, and garnish.

Notes

For added flavor, warm the filling before assembly. Customize with your favorite toppings.

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 burrito
• Calories: 510
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 850mg
• Fat: 20g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 49g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 32g
• Cholesterol: 80mg