Chicken Burrito Skillet
The Chicken Burrito Skillet is a perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This one-pan dish combines all the essential elements of a classic chicken burrito—tender chicken, savory spices, rice, beans, and melted cheese—into a convenient, easy-to-make skillet dinner. It’s an ideal choice for families and anyone who loves a hearty, comfort-filled meal with minimal cleanup.
Why Choose a Chicken Burrito Skillet?
A Chicken Burrito Skillet brings together the best aspects of a burrito in a simplified format. By cooking everything in one skillet, you save time on both preparation and cleanup. This dish is not only versatile and customizable but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a meal to impress guests, this recipe delivers on all fronts.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Chicken Burrito Skillet
Creating a Chicken Burrito Skillet is straightforward, but each step ensures that the flavors meld perfectly and that the dish is cooked to perfection.
1. Prepare the Chicken
Start by cutting the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and a pinch of chili powder. This step adds flavor to the meat and helps build the base of your dish.
2. Heat the Skillet
Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, add the seasoned chicken pieces. Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes, or until it’s browned on the outside and cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
3. Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil if needed. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. This step develops the base flavor of your skillet dish.
4. Add the Corn and Beans
Add the corn kernels and black beans to the skillet. Stir to combine, and cook for another 2 minutes. The corn and beans add a nice texture and additional flavor to the dish.
5. Incorporate the Rice
Add the uncooked rice to the skillet. Stir it into the vegetables and cook for 1-2 minutes. This helps the rice absorb the flavors from the skillet before adding the liquids.
6. Mix in Tomatoes and Chicken Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir to combine everything well. The tomatoes and broth will cook the rice and provide a flavorful base for the dish.
7. Add the Spices
Sprinkle the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper over the mixture. Stir to ensure the spices are evenly distributed. These spices give the dish its distinctive burrito flavor.
8. Simmer and Cook
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it cook for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
9. Add the Chicken Back
Once the rice is cooked, return the cooked chicken to the skillet. Stir it into the rice mixture and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the chicken is heated through and fully combined with the other ingredients.
10. Melt the Cheese
Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet. Cover the skillet again and cook for a few more minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This adds a delicious layer of cheesy goodness to the dish.
Tips for Perfecting Your Chicken Burrito Skillet
To ensure your Chicken Burrito Skillet turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients can make a big difference in the final dish. Use fresh vegetables, high-quality chicken, and good-tasting spices to enhance the flavor of the skillet.
Adjust the Spice Level
If you like your food spicy, you can increase the amount of chili powder or add a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a milder flavor, reduce the chili powder or omit it entirely.
Customize Your Skillet
Feel free to customize the recipe based on your preferences or what you have on hand. You can add other vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, or swap out the black beans for pinto beans. You can also use brown rice instead of white rice, though it may require a longer cooking time.
Avoid Overcooking the Rice
Be sure to check the rice occasionally while it’s cooking. Overcooked rice can become mushy and affect the texture of the dish. If needed, you can add a bit more chicken broth to prevent it from drying out.
Serving Suggestions
A Chicken Burrito Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can enhance it with additional sides and garnishes:
Garnishes
Top your skillet with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice for a burst of flavor. You can also add a dollop of sour cream and some sliced jalapeños for extra kick.
Side Dishes
Serve the Chicken Burrito Skillet with side dishes like a simple green salad, Mexican street corn, or tortilla chips. For a more substantial meal, pair it with a side of refried beans or a bowl of guacamole.
Drink Pairings
For a refreshing drink, consider serving the skillet with a cold margarita or a light Mexican beer. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a glass of iced tea or a citrus-infused sparkling water.
Variations on Chicken Burrito Skillet
While the classic Chicken Burrito Skillet is delicious, there are plenty of variations you can try to mix things up:
Southwestern Chicken Burrito Skillet
Add southwestern flavors by incorporating ingredients like black olives, diced green chilies, or a sprinkle of taco seasoning. You can also top the skillet with avocado slices or a drizzle of salsa.
Buffalo Chicken Burrito Skillet
For a spicy twist, use buffalo sauce to season the chicken instead of chili powder. Top the skillet with crumbled blue cheese and serve with a side of celery sticks for a buffalo-inspired meal.
Vegetarian Burrito Skillet
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and increase the amount of beans and vegetables. You can also add extra cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative.
Chicken Burrito Skillet with Cauliflower Rice
For a low-carb option, substitute cauliflower rice for the white rice. You may need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid to accommodate the cauliflower rice.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Burrito Skillet
If you have leftovers, you can store and reheat them to enjoy later.
Storing Leftovers
Allow the Chicken Burrito Skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the skillet for up to 3 months.
Reheating
To reheat, you can use either the microwave or stovetop. For the microwave, place a portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, or until heated through. For the stovetop, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Conclusion: A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Meal
The Chicken Burrito Skillet is a versatile and delicious meal that’s perfect for busy nights or casual gatherings. With its combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and melted cheese, it offers all the comforts of a traditional burrito in a convenient one-pan format. Plus, its easy preparation and minimal cleanup make it a go-to recipe for any occasion.
So the next time you’re looking for a satisfying, flavorful meal with minimal effort, give the Chicken Burrito Skillet a try. It’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of chicken?
Yes, you can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a more flavorful and juicy option. You can also use rotisserie chicken for a quicker prep time.
2. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the Chicken Burrito Skillet ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat it before serving. It also freezes well if you need to make it in advance.
3. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can use brown rice, but it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to add extra liquid and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
4. What can I substitute for black beans?
You can use pinto beans, kidney beans, or even lentils as a substitute for black beans.
5. How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, add more chili powder or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also top the skillet with sliced jalapeños or a spicy salsa.
Chicken Burrito Skillet
The Chicken Burrito Skillet is a perfect solution for those busy weeknights when you crave a flavorful, satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This one-pan dish combines all the essential elements of a classic chicken burrito—tender chicken, savory spices, rice, beans, and melted cheese—into a convenient, easy-to-make skillet dinner. It’s an ideal choice for families and anyone who loves a hearty, comfort-filled meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts,, cut into bite-sized pieces
- salt and freshly ground black pepper,, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil,, divided
- 1 small yellow onion,, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic,, minced
- 1 cup uncooked long grain rice
- 14.5 ounces canned diced tomatoes,, well drained
- 15 ounces canned black beans,, well rinsed and drained
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 2½ cups low sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese or Mexican blend cheese
- halved cherry tomatoes,, for garnish
- chopped green onions,, for garnish
- chopped fresh cilantro,, for garnish
Notes
Season chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet set over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook for 3 minutes, or until just browned on all sides. Remove chicken from pan and set aside.
Add remaining oil to the skillet and set over medium-high heat. Add onions to the hot oil and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until starting to soften.
Stir in garlic and cook for 20 seconds. Add rice; cook and stir for 30 seconds. Add tomatoes and black beans.
Season with cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder, and stir well to combine. Add chicken broth and bring mixture to a boil.
Return chicken pieces to the skillet. Lower heat to a steady simmer; cover and continue to cook for 20 to 25 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed. Start checking around the 18-minute mark.
Remove from heat; stir, then sprinkle with cheese and cover; let stand for 4 to 5 minutes, or until cheese is melted.
Garnish with tomatoes, green onions, and cilantro. Serve.
Nutrition Information:
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 450