There’s something magical about a pan of Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos bubbling away in the oven. The aroma of seasoned chicken, melty cheese, and rich enchilada sauce fills your kitchen, drawing everyone to the table. It’s the ultimate comfort food, with just the right mix of bold flavors and creamy textures.
I first created this recipe on a chilly weekend when my family was craving something hearty but easy. It’s since become a staple in our home – the kind of meal that’s requested for family dinners and casual get-togethers alike. Let’s dive in and make it your new favorite too!
Why You’ll Love This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe
Get ready for a dish that’s bound to become a weeknight winner. These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are everything you want in a quick, satisfying meal.
First, they’re incredibly easy to make. From start to finish, this recipe takes just under an hour – including prep and baking time. Perfect for busy weeknights or when you need something delicious in a pinch.
Next, they’re packed with flavor. The shredded chicken is seasoned to perfection, while the combination of enchilada sauce and melted cheese creates a rich, indulgent finish that’s impossible to resist.
They’re also customizable. Whether you prefer a little extra spice, a vegetarian twist, or a low-carb option, these burritos are as flexible as they are delicious.
Finally, they’re a crowd-pleaser. From picky kids to adventurous eaters, everyone at the table will find something to love in this dish. Serve it with a side of rice, guacamole, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients Notes

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this dish so special.
Shredded Chicken: You can use leftover rotisserie chicken or quickly poach and shred chicken breasts for this recipe. Either way, it’s the heart of the burrito filling and absorbs all those delicious spices beautifully.
Tortillas: Large flour tortillas work best here. They’re soft, pliable, and hold the filling without tearing. Corn tortillas can be used for a gluten-free option, but they may need gentle warming to prevent cracking.
Enchilada Sauce: A rich, red enchilada sauce ties everything together. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own if you prefer more control over the flavors.
Cheese: A mix of shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack gives these burritos their gooey, cheesy topping. You can also experiment with Pepper Jack for a spicy kick.
Seasonings: Cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder bring warmth and depth to the chicken filling. Adjust to taste if you want more or less heat.
No special equipment is required – just a baking dish, a skillet, and some foil for covering the burritos during baking.
How to Make This Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe

Making these burritos is easier than you might think. Here’s a step-by-step guide to get them on your table.
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F and greasing a large baking dish. This ensures easy cleanup and prevents sticking.
In a skillet, warm a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the shredded chicken, then sprinkle in cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Toss everything together and cook until the chicken is warmed through and coated in the spices.
Lay out your tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the seasoned chicken onto each one, followed by a handful of shredded cheese. Roll them up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go.
Arrange the burritos seam-side down in the baking dish. Pour enchilada sauce evenly over the top, ensuring every burrito is fully covered. Sprinkle with the remaining cheese for that irresistible melty topping.
Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.
Let the burritos cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the filling set and makes them easier to plate.
Storage Options
Leftovers? No problem! These burritos store beautifully for future meals.
Refrigerator: Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. They reheat wonderfully in the microwave or oven.
Freezer: For longer storage, wrap individual burritos in foil and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They’ll keep for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake directly from frozen at 375°F until heated through.
Variations and Substitutions
This recipe is as versatile as it is delicious. Here are a few ideas to make it your own:
Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños to the filling or use a spicy enchilada sauce for an extra kick.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for black beans, refried beans, or sautéed vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini.
Low-Carb Twist: Use low-carb tortillas and top with a sugar-free enchilada sauce to make this dish keto-friendly.
Cheese Alternatives: Try swapping the cheddar and Monterey Jack for a smoky gouda or a tangy queso fresco.
No matter how you customize it, this dish is guaranteed to bring bold flavors and warm smiles to your table. So gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy the ultimate comfort food experience. These Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are sure to become a new family favorite!
PrintSmothered Baked Chicken Burritos Recipe
Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are a flavorful, satisfying meal filled with seasoned chicken, rice, and cheese, then baked and smothered in a rich sauce. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe combines bold flavors and creamy textures.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 can (10 oz) enchilada sauce
- 1 cup sour cream
- 4 large flour tortillas
- ½ tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a bowl, mix shredded chicken, cooked rice, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Place a tortilla on a flat surface, add a portion of the chicken mixture, and top with shredded cheese. Roll tightly.
- Arrange burritos seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
- In a separate bowl, mix enchilada sauce and sour cream until smooth. Pour over the burritos.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top, if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and bubbly.
- Serve hot with optional toppings like cilantro or diced tomatoes.
Notes
- Substitute sour cream with Greek yogurt for a healthier option.
- Use a rotisserie chicken for quicker preparation.
- Add black beans or corn for extra texture and flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 800mg
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