If you are craving a dish that bursts with flavor and comfort, the Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This recipe brings together tender chicken, zesty salsa, and a creamy, cheesy green chile sauce that smothers each burrito perfectly. Every bite offers a delightful combination of spicy, savory, and cheesy goodness that will keep you coming back for more. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat, these burritos impress with their crispy baked shells and luscious sauce topping. Get ready to dive into a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find ingredients that work in harmony to bring out the best in this dish. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s adding spice, creaminess, or that irresistible cheesy finish—resulting in a burrito that’s truly unforgettable.
- 3 cups cooked chicken: Use shredded or chopped for tender, flavorful protein that soaks up the spices perfectly.
- 1 1/2 cups salsa: Pick your favorite salsa to add a fresh, tangy kick that enlivens the chicken mixture.
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin: This spice adds warmth and depth to the filling and sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed: A herbaceous note that balances the bold flavors wonderfully.
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into gooey goodness inside the burrito and in the sauce.
- 2 green onions, chopped: For a mild onion crunch and fresh color.
- 6 large flour tortillas: The perfect soft but sturdy wrapper for all the filling.
- Olive oil: For brushing onto the tortillas to get that beautiful golden, crispy finish when baked.
- 3 tablespoons butter: To start the rich green chile sauce base.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the sauce into creamy perfection.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Adds depth and aromatic flavor to the sauce.
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth: Provides a savory, balanced liquid base for the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Enhances the sauce with a subtle earthy spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed: Adds an herbal compliment to the sauce.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for seasoning to taste.
- 4 ounces diced green chilies, mild: The star ingredient creating that signature green chile flavor and creamy heat.
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese: Folded into the sauce for extra cheesiness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Adds creaminess and a slight tang to round out the sauce beautifully.
How to Make Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prep Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper. This step ensures your baking surface stays clean and your burritos won’t stick, making the cleanup a breeze. It also sets you up for the perfect golden finish on your burritos.
Step 2: Prepare the Filling
In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the cooked chicken with your favorite salsa, cumin, oregano, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Combining these ingredients now guarantees a flavorful filling that’s juicy and perfectly spiced. Mixing thoroughly ensures each bite is bursting with that delicious combination.
Step 3: Assemble the Burritos
Lay out each large flour tortilla and spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture in the center. Fold the sides and roll up the tortillas tightly, taking care to keep the filling inside. Placing them seam-side down on your prepared baking sheet will keep them securely wrapped during baking. A light brush of olive oil on top helps create a crisp, golden crust that adds texture to each bite.
Step 4: Bake Until Golden and Crispy
Pop the burritos into your preheated oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. During this time, the tortillas will crisp up beautifully, and the cheese inside will melt, melding all the flavors together. This step is key for that delightful contrast between the crunchy exterior and melty interior.
Step 5: Make the Green Chile Sauce
While your burritos are baking, melt butter over medium heat in a saucepan. Whisk in the flour to form a roux and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Add the minced garlic and let it cook just until fragrant. Slowly whisk in chicken broth to avoid lumps, then add cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Keep stirring until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and stir in the diced green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream to create a smooth, creamy sauce that’s downright addictive.
Step 6: Broil with Sauce and Cheese
Switch your oven to broil. Spoon the luscious green chile sauce over each burrito and sprinkle extra shredded cheddar cheese on top. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, just until the cheese bubbles and turns golden. Keep a close eye to prevent burning—this final step adds irresistible gooeyness and visual appeal to your dish.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Once out of the oven, serve your burritos immediately to savor them at their melty best. This recipe manages to deliver that perfect balance of smoky, spicy, creamy, and crispy in every bite.
How to Serve Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
Top your burritos with fresh chopped cilantro and additional green onions for a burst of color and fresh flavor. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole can also elevate the experience, adding cooling creaminess to balance the warm spices and cheese.
Side Dishes
These burritos pair beautifully with classic Mexican rice or a simple black bean salad. You might also enjoy serving them alongside a crisp, fresh green salad or some roasted veggies to balance the hearty richness of the burritos.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice the burritos into bite-sized pieces and skew them with decorative picks to serve as party appetizers. Or turn this meal into a “burrito bowl” by serving the filling under a generous pour of the green chile sauce and cheese rather than wrapped, offering a lower-carb option or a fresh take on the classic presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to continue melding, and your meal will be just as delicious when reheated.
Freezing
This recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap individual burritos tightly in plastic wrap and foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well for up to 2 months and make for a quick, satisfying meal anytime you need a comfort fix.
Reheating
For the best results, reheat your burritos in a 350°F oven until warmed through and the tortilla re-crisps, about 15 minutes. You can also microwave them covered for convenience, but the oven method preserves that satisfying crispiness. Don’t forget to reheat the green chile sauce on the stove or in a microwave and pour it over the burritos for that classic smothered finish.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that adds great flavor and saves cooking time. Just shred or chop it up and use it as directed in the recipe.
How spicy is the green chile sauce?
The sauce uses mild diced green chilies, resulting in a gentle warmth rather than intense heat, making it approachable for most tastes, but you can always adjust by adding more chilies or a pinch of cayenne if you prefer it hotter.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute the chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms or use a protein like black beans or seasoned tofu. The green chile sauce will still provide plenty of flavor.
What type of salsa works best?
Pick a salsa that you love eating on its own—chunky or smooth, mild or medium heat—to complement the chicken. Fresh or jarred salsa both work well.
Is it necessary to broil the burritos with the sauce?
While broiling adds a beautiful bubbly cheese topping that elevates the dish, you can skip this step and simply pour the warm sauce over the burritos before serving if you’re short on time.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend the Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Recipe enough—it’s one of those dishes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. The combination of crispy baked tortillas, hearty chicken filling, and that dreamy green chile sauce makes every bite a joy. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and prepare to fall in love with your new go-to meal.
Print
Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
Description
Smothered Green Chile Chicken Burritos are a delicious Tex-Mex favorite featuring tender shredded chicken mixed with salsa and spices, wrapped in warm flour tortillas, baked to crispy perfection, and generously topped with a creamy green chile sauce and melted cheddar cheese. This comforting casserole-style dish is perfect for a family dinner or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Filling
- 3 cups cooked chicken, chopped or shredded
- 1 1/2 cups salsa, your favorite kind
- 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
- 1 1/4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 6 large flour tortillas
- Olive oil, for brushing on burritos
Green Chile Sauce
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano, crushed
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 ounces diced green chilies, mild
- 1/3 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
Instructions
- Preheat and prep: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with foil or parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Make filling: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked chicken, salsa, ground cumin, crushed oregano, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped green onions. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
- Fill tortillas: Place a generous portion of the chicken mixture in the center of each flour tortilla. Fold the sides over the filling and roll the tortillas tightly to form burritos. Arrange the burritos seam-side down on the prepared baking sheet and brush the tops lightly with olive oil for a crispy, golden finish.
- Bake the burritos: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until nicely browned and crispy on the outside.
- Make sauce: While the burritos bake, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour to create a roux and cook for about 3 minutes, stirring frequently. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Stir in cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Continue cooking until the sauce thickens, then remove from heat and stir in diced green chilies, shredded cheddar cheese, and sour cream until smooth and creamy.
- Broil: After baking, switch oven to broil. Ladle the green chile sauce evenly over each burrito and sprinkle additional cheese on top. Place the baking sheet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Serve: Remove the burritos from the oven and serve immediately, ideally with Mexican rice or your favorite side dishes.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, substitute mild green chilies with medium or hot varieties.
- Make sure to watch the burritos carefully while broiling, as the cheese can burn quickly.
- Leftover burritos can be reheated in the oven or microwave but are best enjoyed fresh.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the sauce.
- Flour tortillas can be substituted with whole wheat tortillas for a healthier option.
