Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce

Name: Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 1/4 cups chicken broth; 3/4 cup long grain rice rinsed; 1 15-ounce can pinto beans, drained and rinsed; 3 1/2 tablespoons chili powder; salt and pepper; 2 green onions thinly sliced; 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 3 cloves garlic minced; 2 8oz each cans tomato sauce; 1 1/2 pounds boneless skinless chicken breasts; 6 tablespoons minced fresh cilantro; 6 10-inch flour tortillas; 2 avocados halved, pitted and cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 8 oz Monterey Jack cheese shredded; 1 1/2 cups tomatillo salsa; water as needed; 1/2 cup Mexican crema

By funsmagcom@gmail.com

August 22, 2024

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Chicken Burrito Recipe with Red and Green Sauce

Burritos are a beloved staple of Mexican cuisine, known for their hearty, satisfying nature and the endless possibilities they offer for customization. While the classic burrito is delicious in its simplicity, adding a twist with both red and green sauces can elevate this dish to a whole new level. This recipe for Chicken Burritos with Red and Green Sauce brings together tender, marinated chicken, rich and tangy sauces, and a variety of fresh ingredients, all wrapped in a soft, warm tortilla. Let’s explore how you can create this flavorful meal step by step.

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Ingredients Overview

To make the ultimate chicken burrito, you’ll need a selection of fresh, high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

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For the Chicken:

Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts or Thighs: Chicken breasts are lean and tender, while thighs offer more flavor and juiciness. Choose according to your preference.
Olive Oil: For marinating and cooking the chicken.
Lime Juice: Adds brightness and a zesty tang to the marinade.
Garlic Powder: For a savory, aromatic touch.
Cumin: A key spice in Mexican cuisine, adding warmth and depth.
Chili Powder: Provides a mild heat and rich color.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning.

For the Red Sauce:

Tomatoes: Fresh or canned, they form the base of the sauce.
Onion and Garlic: For depth of flavor.
Chili Peppers: Choose from ancho, guajillo, or chipotle for different levels of heat and smokiness.
Cumin and Oregano: To enhance the sauce’s complexity.
Salt and Sugar: For seasoning and balancing acidity.
Vegetable Broth: To thin out the sauce as needed.

For the Green Sauce:

Tomatillos: The star of the green sauce, offering a tangy, slightly fruity flavor.
Green Chilies or Jalapeños: For a spicy kick.
Cilantro: Adds freshness and a vibrant green color.
Onion and Garlic: To deepen the flavor profile.
Lime Juice: For acidity and brightness.
Avocado (Optional): For extra creaminess.
Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.

For the Burrito Assembly:

Large Flour Tortillas: Soft and pliable, they are ideal for wrapping all the ingredients securely.
Cheese: A blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack works well, offering both sharpness and meltability.
Rice: Seasoned with lime and cilantro for added flavor.
Beans: Black beans or pinto beans provide protein and texture.
Sour Cream: For creaminess and a cooling contrast to the spicy sauces.
Lettuce, Tomatoes, and Onions: Fresh, crisp veggies to add crunch.
Avocado or Guacamole: For richness and a buttery texture.

Choosing the Right Tortilla

The foundation of any great burrito is the tortilla. While flour tortillas are the traditional choice for burritos, offering flexibility and a soft texture, corn tortillas can also be used if you prefer a more robust flavor and a gluten-free option. For the best results, warm your tortillas before assembly. You can do this by briefly heating them in a dry skillet or wrapping them in foil and placing them in a warm oven. This makes them more pliable and less likely to tear when you fold your burrito.

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Preparing the Chicken

The chicken is the heart of your burrito, so it’s essential to cook it to perfection.

Selecting the Best Chicken Cuts

Both chicken breasts and thighs work well in burritos. Breasts are leaner, offering a light, tender texture, while thighs are slightly fattier, which can add more flavor and moisture to the burrito.

Marinating the Chicken for Maximum Flavor

Marinating your chicken not only enhances its flavor but also tenderizes the meat. Combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic powder, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Add the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated with the marinade, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes. For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for a few hours or even overnight in the refrigerator.

Cooking Techniques: Stovetop, Grill, or Oven

There are several ways to cook your marinated chicken, each offering a slightly different result:

Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. This method gives you a nice sear and locks in the juices.
Grill: Grilling adds a smoky flavor that complements the spices in the marinade. Cook the chicken over medium heat for about 6-7 minutes per side.
Oven: Bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through. This is a great option if you’re cooking a large batch at once.

Once the chicken is cooked, let it rest for a few minutes before slicing it into thin strips or shredding it with two forks.

Making the Red Sauce

The red sauce is rich, slightly spicy, and full of deep, savory flavors.

Ingredients for a Rich Red Sauce

To make the red sauce, you’ll need the following:

4 large tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
1 medium onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 dried chili peppers (such as ancho or guajillo)
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon oregano
Salt and sugar to taste
1 cup vegetable broth

Step-by-Step Instructions for Homemade Sauce

Prepare the Chili Peppers: Start by toasting the dried chili peppers in a dry skillet over medium heat until they become fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn them. Once toasted, remove the stems and seeds, then soak them in hot water for about 15 minutes to soften.
Cook the Aromatics: In a saucepan, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Blend the Sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked chili peppers, cooked onion and garlic, tomatoes, cumin, oregano, and vegetable broth. Blend until smooth.
Simmer the Sauce: Pour the blended mixture back into the saucepan. Bring it to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Adjust seasoning with salt and sugar to balance the acidity.
Consistency Check: If the sauce is too thick, add a little more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered until it thickens.

Tips for Balancing Heat and Sweetness

The key to a great red sauce is balancing the heat from the chili peppers with a touch of sweetness. If you find the sauce too spicy, add a pinch of sugar or a splash of cream to mellow it out. Conversely, if it’s too mild, you can spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper or a bit more chili powder.

Making the Green Sauce

The green sauce is zesty, fresh, and slightly tangy, providing a nice contrast to the richness of the red sauce.

Ingredients for a Zesty Green Sauce

To make the green sauce, you’ll need:

6-8 tomatillos, husked and rinsed
2 green chilies or jalapeños
1 small onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 cup cilantro leaves
Juice of 1 lime
1 avocado (optional)
Salt to taste

How to Achieve the Perfect Consistency

Roast the Tomatillos and Chilies: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the tomatillos and chilies on a baking sheet and roast them for 15-20 minutes until they are soft and slightly charred.
Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the roasted tomatillos, chilies, chopped onion, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice. If using avocado, add it to the blender for a creamier sauce. Blend until smooth.
Season the Sauce: Taste and season with salt as needed. If the sauce is too thick, you can thin it out with a bit of water or lime juice. If you prefer a spicier sauce, leave the seeds in the chilies before blending.

Adjusting the Spiciness to Your Taste

The spiciness of the green sauce can be easily adjusted by the type and amount of chilies used. Jalapeños provide a moderate heat, while serrano or habanero peppers will make the sauce much spicier. Removing the seeds and membranes from the chilies will also reduce the heat level.

Assembling the Burritos

Now that you have your chicken, sauces, and other ingredients ready, it’s time to assemble the burritos.

Layering Ingredients for an Even Distribution

Start by laying out a warm flour tortilla. Spread a spoonful of the red sauce down the center, followed by a layer of rice. Add the sliced or shredded chicken, then top with beans, cheese, and any additional vegetables like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions. Drizzle some green sauce over the top, then add a dollop of sour cream and a few slices of avocado or a spoonful of guacamole.

Tips for a Tight, Secure Wrap

To wrap the burrito, fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up from the bottom, tucking in the sides as you go. Ensure the burrito is tightly wrapped to prevent the filling from spilling out. If you’re planning to grill or bake the burrito, you can wrap it in foil to help hold its shape.

Ensuring the Sauces Enhance Each Bite

The red and green sauces should complement each other without overpowering the burrito. Spread them evenly so that each bite includes a bit of both, along with the other ingredients. If you prefer, you can serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.

Cooking the Burritos

You can cook the assembled burritos in several ways, depending on your preference for texture.

Stovetop vs. Oven-Baked Burritos

Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the burrito seam-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until the tortilla is crispy and golden brown.
Oven-Baked: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the burritos on a baking sheet, seam-side down, and bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy. This method is great for making multiple burritos at once.

Achieving a Crispy Exterior While Keeping the Inside Moist

For a perfectly crispy exterior, lightly brush the outside of the burrito with oil or melted butter before cooking. This will help the tortilla brown evenly. To keep the inside moist, avoid overcooking the burrito, as this can dry out the filling.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken burritos with red and green sauce are a complete meal on their own, but adding some sides and garnishes can elevate the dining experience.

Best Side Dishes to Complement Chicken Burritos

Mexican Rice: Flavored with tomatoes, onions, and spices, it’s a perfect side dish.
Refried Beans or Black Beans: Add protein and a creamy texture.
Tortilla Chips with Salsa or Guacamole: For a crunchy contrast.
Corn Salad or Elote: A fresh and flavorful addition.

Garnishes and Toppings for Extra Flavor

Fresh Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness.
Pickled Jalapeños: For an extra kick of heat.
Lime Wedges: To squeeze over the burrito just before eating.
Shredded Lettuce and Diced Tomatoes: For added crunch and color.

Pairing with Drinks for a Complete Meal

Margaritas or Palomas: Tequila-based cocktails that complement the bold flavors.
Mexican Beer: Such as Corona or Modelo, served with a wedge of lime.
Agua Fresca: A refreshing non-alcoholic option made with fruit, water, and a touch of sweetness.

Making It a Healthier Option

While burritos are often seen as indulgent, there are several ways to make them a healthier meal.

Whole Wheat Tortillas and Lean Chicken

Swap regular flour tortillas for whole wheat versions to increase fiber content. Opt for chicken breasts over thighs to reduce fat content.

Reducing Cheese and Sour Cream

Use less cheese and sour cream, or choose low-fat versions to cut down on calories and saturated fat.

Adding More Vegetables and Healthy Fats

Increase the amount of vegetables in your burrito, such as adding bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini. Use avocado or guacamole sparingly, as they are high in healthy fats but also in calories.

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

Burritos are incredibly versatile, making it easy to adapt the recipe for vegetarians and vegans.

Substituting Chicken with Plant-Based Proteins

Replace chicken with black beans, pinto beans, or a plant-based meat substitute. Grilled vegetables, such as mushrooms, bell peppers, and zucchini, also make a great filling.

Vegan Cheese and Sauce Options

There are many vegan cheese options available that melt well and taste great. You can also make a dairy-free version of the red and green sauces by using vegetable broth and omitting any cream or cheese.

Keeping the Flavors Bold Without Meat

To maintain bold flavors in a vegan burrito, use plenty of spices and fresh herbs. Adding a squeeze of lime juice or a dash of hot sauce can also brighten up the dish.

Storing and Reheating Burritos

Burritos are excellent for meal prep, as they store and reheat well.

Best Practices for Storing Leftovers

Wrap leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How to Reheat Burritos Without Drying Them Out

To reheat, unwrap the burrito and place it in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for a few minutes on each side until heated through. Alternatively, you can bake the burrito in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.

Freezing Burritos for Meal Prep

To freeze, wrap the burrito in foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, bake the frozen burrito at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even with a simple dish like burritos, there are a few common mistakes that can affect the final result.

Overstuffing the Burrito

It’s tempting to add as much filling as possible, but overstuffing can make it difficult to wrap the burrito and may cause it to fall apart. Stick to moderate amounts of each ingredient.

Using the Wrong Heat When Cooking

Cooking burritos over too high heat can burn the tortilla before the inside is fully warmed. Use medium heat and take your time to ensure even cooking.

Not Balancing the Flavors in the Sauces

Both the red and green sauces should have a balanced flavor profile, with the right amount of heat, acidity, and sweetness. Taste the sauces as you go and adjust the seasoning as needed.

Conclusion

Chicken burritos with red and green sauce are a delicious, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of tender, flavorful chicken, vibrant sauces, and fresh ingredients wrapped in a warm tortilla is sure to please everyone at the table. By following the tips and techniques outlined in this guide, you can create burritos that are perfectly balanced in flavor and texture. Whether you’re making them for a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a batch for meal prep, these burritos are sure to become a favorite in your household.

Yield: 6