As I rummaged through my pantry the other day, I realized I had all the makings for something special—Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos. Sometimes life calls for a crowd-pleaser that packs a punch, and this recipe does just that! With its tantalizing mix of zesty buffalo chicken and creamy cheese, you can whip this up in under an hour, making it an incredible time-saver for busy weeknights. Plus, these burritos are wonderfully versatile, perfect for using up leftovers or customizing to your taste. Whether you're serving them at a game day gathering or cozying up for a comforting dinner, these burritos have you covered. Are you ready to dive into a delightful explosion of flavor that will keep everyone asking for seconds? Let’s get cooking!
Why are Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos a must-try?
Ultimate Comfort: There's something inherently cozy about burritos, and this recipe elevates them with bold buffalo flavor.
Creamy & Cheesy: The rich mix of cheddar and cream cheese creates an indulgent filling that’s simply irresistible.
Simple to Assemble: In just 47 minutes, you can whip up this dish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Customizable Goodness: Feel free to personalize your burritos with your favorite toppings or ingredients; the possibilities are endless!
Crowd-Pleaser: Serve these at your next gathering, and watch as they disappear in record time—nobody can resist that cheesy, spicy goodness.
Whether you're planning a fun game night or just craving something comforting at home, these Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos bring joy to every bite!
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos Ingredients
Discover the delightful elements that make these burritos a hit!
For the Chicken Filling
- 1 ½ lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Choose thighs for extra juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – Helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Enhances flavor in every bite.
- ½ teaspoon black pepper – Adds a dash of heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder – For that savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder – Brings a sweet, aromatic note.
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (or regular paprika) – Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
- ¼ cup buffalo wing sauce – Gives the filling its zesty kick.
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter – Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
For the Cheesy Mixture
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese – Provides that gooey, melty texture.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese – Adds a nice flavor contrast.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened – Ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
- ½ cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – Adds tanginess and helps balance flavors.
- ¼ cup finely chopped green onions (scallions) – Freshens up the filling with a pop of color.
- ¼ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro (optional but recommended) – Brightens the dish with a fresh herb flavor.
- 1 small jalapeño, finely minced (optional, for extra heat) – Give it a fiery kick!
For the Burrito Assembly
- 6–8 large flour tortillas (10-inch burrito size) – The perfect wrap for all that goodness.
- 1 ½ cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime), warm – Adds a hearty base to the filling.
- 1 cup canned black beans, rinsed and drained – Introduces protein and fiber.
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen and thawed, or canned and drained) – Sweetness complements the spicy filling.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or finely shredded green cabbage – Adds crunch and freshness.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced – A touch of sharpness balances out the flavors.
- 1 large tomato, seeded and diced (or ¾ cup cherry tomatoes, quartered) – Adds juiciness and color.
For Serving
- Extra buffalo sauce, to drizzle – For those who crave more spice.
- Ranch or blue cheese dressing – A cooling dip that pairs perfectly.
- Extra shredded cheese, for topping – Because you can never have too much cheese!
- Lime wedges, for squeezing – Brightens up the flavors with a touch of citrus.
- Extra chopped cilantro and green onions, for garnish – Make your burritos look as good as they taste!
Gather these ingredients for a mouthwatering experience with your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos. Enjoy the journey of creating this delicious dish while keeping your loved ones coming back for more!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then cut it into small bite-sized pieces, about ½–¾ inch. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika until the pieces are evenly coated and glistening in the spices.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat until hot. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet in an even layer, ensuring the pieces are not overcrowded. Cook for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and lightly browned, with an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 3: Add Buffalo Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and introduce the buffalo wing sauce and unsalted butter to the skillet. Stir the mixture gently until the butter has melted and the chicken is thoroughly coated in the spicy, rich sauce. Allow this to simmer on low for 2–3 minutes, letting the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Cheesy Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack (or pepper Jack) cheeses. Add the cream cheese cubes, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), chopped green onions, cilantro, and minced jalapeño, if using. This will create a luscious, creamy base for your filling.
Step 5: Mix Together Ingredients
Once the buffalo chicken is warm and flavorful, spoon it into the bowl with the cheesy mixture. Gently fold everything together, ensuring the cheeses begin to melt into the warm chicken, resulting in a creamy and cheesy buffalo chicken filling. Adjust consistency with warm water or more buffalo sauce if needed.
Step 6: Prepare Tortillas
Warm the cooked rice lightly, seasoning it with a pinch of salt if desired. Rinse and drain the black beans and corn, patting them dry to avoid sogginess. Prepare your toppings by shredding the lettuce or cabbage, slicing the red onion, and dicing the tomato for a fresh burst of flavor in each bite.
Step 7: Heat the Tortillas
Heat a large, dry skillet over medium heat and warm each flour tortilla for 15–20 seconds on each side, until soft and pliable. Stack the tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm and flexible, making them easier to roll into burritos.
Step 8: Assemble Burritos
On a warm tortilla, layer about ¼ cup of warm rice in a horizontal line slightly below the center. Top this with ⅓–½ cup of the cheesy buffalo chicken mixture, adding spoonfuls of black beans and corn, followed by a handful of shredded lettuce or cabbage, sliced red onion, and diced tomato.
Step 9: Add Finishing Touches
If desired, sprinkle some extra cheese over the top, and drizzle with ranch or blue cheese dressing and/or extra buffalo sauce for an added flavor kick. Carefully fold the sides of the tortilla inward and then roll from the bottom up, keeping everything snugly encased.
Step 10: Cook the Burritos
Place the assembled burritos seam-side down in a large nonstick skillet lightly coated with oil over medium heat. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side, gently pressing with a spatula to achieve a beautiful golden brown and crisp exterior, while the cheese inside becomes melty and delicious.
Step 11: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the burritos from the skillet, allowing them to rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing them in half diagonally for an attractive presentation. Serve the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos hot, alongside extra buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro and green onions.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos Variations
Get ready to explore delightful twists that will make your burritos even more exciting!
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Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with seasoned roasted cauliflower for a deliciously meat-free meal. This adds a roasted nuttiness that pairs beautifully with buffalo sauce.
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Spicy Kick: If you crave more heat, add chopped chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the buffalo chicken mixture for a smoky, spicy flavor explosion.
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Tex-Mex Twist: Incorporate black olives and diced bell peppers into the filling for a vibrant and savory addition, giving your burritos a delightful crunch and extra flavor.
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Sour Cream Swap: Use avocado or guacamole instead of sour cream to bring in a creamy, healthy alternative. The buttery flavor of avocado complements the spices brilliantly!
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Whole Wheat Tortillas: Swap regular flour tortillas for whole wheat or spinach tortillas to add a nutritious element without sacrificing flavor.
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Creamy Cheese Sauce: Instead of cream cheese, drizzle a warm cheese sauce on top before serving for an extra cheesy indulgence that will have everyone diving in for more!
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Cilantro Lime Rice: Swap out plain rice for cilantro lime rice for a fresh twist that brightens the overall flavor profile of the burrito.
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Savory Sauces: Offer a side of honey mustard or sriracha mayo for dipping, giving your guests a chance to mix it up and find their favorite flavor combination.
Feel free to get creative with these variations; the beauty of these Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos is their incredible versatility! If you're looking for ways to enhance your burrito experience, try pairing them with a refreshing Cilantro Lime Rice or serve with zesty Homemade Guacamole alongside.
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are perfect for busy weeknights when time is of the essence! You can prepare the filling (the chicken mixture and cheesy mixture) up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and prevent sogginess. When you're ready to assemble, warm the fillings and rice in the microwave, and heat the tortillas briefly before rolling them up. This way, you’ll enjoy all the deliciousness just as if you made them fresh! Serve with your favorite toppings for a comforting meal that takes minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
Sautéing Chicken: Ensure your chicken pieces are evenly cut to allow for consistent cooking; overcrowding the skillet will lead to steaming instead of browning.
Creamy Filling: If your cheese mixture seems too thick, don’t hesitate to add warm water or a bit more buffalo sauce. You want a creamy texture that’s easy to spoon into the tortillas.
Tortilla Preparation: Warm each tortilla properly; a cold tortilla can crack when folded. 15–20 seconds on each side in a dry skillet makes all the difference!
Avoid Sogginess: Pat your beans and corn dry before adding them to the burrito filling. Excess moisture can lead to soggy burritos, and nobody wants that!
Burrito Rolling: When rolling, ensure the burrito is snug but not overly tight. This helps keep everything inside without risking a burst.
Enjoy Hot: Serve the Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos immediately for the best experience—hot, melty cheese and a crispy tortilla are a match made in heaven!
What to Serve with Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
Creating the perfect meal around these flavorful burritos is an exciting adventure for the senses.
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Creamy Guacamole: This rich and buttery dip adds a luscious texture and cooling contrast to the spicy burritos. The creamy avocado complements the bold flavors perfectly.
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Zesty Cilantro Lime Rice: The bright citrus flavor paired with fresh cilantro elevates the burritos and enhances the overall dining experience. It’s a delightful side bursting with freshness.
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Crunchy Coleslaw: A crisp and tangy slaw provides a refreshing crunch, balancing the creaminess of the burritos and adding a pop of color to your plate.
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Sweet Corn Salad: This vibrant mix of corn, bell peppers, and lime juice offers a sweet counterpoint that contrasts beautifully with the spicy chicken filling. The juicy bites are irresistible!
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Ranch Dressing Dipping Sauce: Serve with a side of creamy ranch for dunking; it cools down the heat and complements the rich flavors of the burritos perfectly.
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Freshly Shaken Margaritas: For drinks, pair the meal with a zesty margarita that mirrors the southwestern flavors, making each bite and sip even more cherished.
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Chocolate Chip Cookies: Cap off the meal with these nostalgic treats; their sweetness rounds out the spicy burritos, providing a comforting finish that everyone will love.
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
Fridge: Store any leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Wrap the burritos tightly in plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil, or use a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, unwrap the burrito and microwave on medium power for 2–3 minutes, or bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
Serving Suggestion: For an added flavor boost, drizzle with extra buffalo sauce or serve with ranch or blue cheese dressing after reheating!
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! For the best flavor and texture, I recommend boneless skinless chicken thighs if you enjoy a juicier bite. However, boneless skinless chicken breasts work wonderfully too. Just ensure they are fresh, with no dark spots or unpleasant odors.
What’s the best way to store leftover burritos?
Very! To store leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos, place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to let them cool completely before sealing to avoid condensation, which can make them soggy.
Can I freeze Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos?
Absolutely! To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly with plastic wrap and then in aluminum foil. Alternatively, you can use a freezer-safe bag. They will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What if my burrito filling is too thick?
Not a problem! If your cheesy buffalo chicken mixture turns out too thick, simply add 1-2 tablespoons of warm water or a splash more buffalo sauce to reach your desired consistency. Gently stir until it becomes creamy but not too runny.
How can I make these burritos more dietary-friendly?
Very good question! To cater to dietary needs, you can use gluten-free tortillas or swap the cheeses for dairy-free alternatives. If anyone has spicy food sensitivities, adjust the buffalo sauce to your preferred heat level. Always check for allergies to specific ingredients like cheese or sour cream before serving.
How do I reheat leftover burritos?
Certainly! To reheat, unwrap the burrito and place it in the microwave on medium power for 2-3 minutes. Alternatively, you can bake it in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until warm throughout. For extra zest, drizzle with buffalo sauce before serving!
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss
Equipment
- large skillet
- mixing bowl
- Kitchen towel
- spatula
Ingredients
For the Chicken Filling
- 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs Choose thighs for extra juiciness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil Helps the chicken brown beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt Enhances flavor in every bite.
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper Adds a dash of heat.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder For that savory depth.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder Brings a sweet, aromatic note.
- 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika Adds a subtle smoky flavor.
- 0.25 cup buffalo wing sauce Gives the filling its zesty kick.
- 2 tablespoon unsalted butter Makes the sauce rich and creamy.
For the Cheesy Mixture
- 1.5 cups shredded cheddar cheese Provides that gooey, melty texture.
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese Adds a nice flavor contrast.
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened Ensures a smooth and creamy filling.
- 0.5 cup sour cream or plain Greek yogurt Adds tanginess and helps balance flavors.
- 0.25 cup finely chopped green onions Freshens up the filling with a pop of color.
- 0.25 cup finely chopped fresh cilantro Optional but recommended, brightens the dish.
- 1 small jalapeño, finely minced Optional, for extra heat.
For the Burrito Assembly
- 6-8 large flour tortillas (10-inch burrito size) The perfect wrap for all that goodness.
- 1.5 cups cooked rice Warm, adds a hearty base to the filling.
- 1 cup canned black beans Rinsed and drained, introduces protein and fiber.
- 1 cup corn kernels Frozen and thawed, or canned and drained.
- 1 cup shredded lettuce or finely shredded green cabbage Adds crunch and freshness.
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced A touch of sharpness balances the flavors.
- 1 large tomato, seeded and diced Adds juiciness and color.
For Serving
- extra buffalo sauce To drizzle.
- ranch or blue cheese dressing A cooling dip that pairs perfectly.
- extra shredded cheese For topping.
- lime wedges For squeezing.
- extra chopped cilantro and green onions For garnish.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels, then cut it into small bite-sized pieces, about ½–¾ inch. Toss with olive oil, kosher salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika.
- Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned chicken to the skillet. Cook for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
- Reduce the heat and add buffalo wing sauce and unsalted butter. Stir until the butter melts and the chicken is coated. Let it simmer on low for 2–3 minutes.
- In a mixing bowl, combine shredded cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses. Add cream cheese, sour cream, chopped green onions, cilantro, and minced jalapeño, if using.
- Spoon the buffalo chicken into the cheesy mixture and gently fold together to create a creamy filling.
- Warm cooked rice and rinse the black beans and corn. Prepare toppings by shredding lettuce or cabbage, slicing red onion, and dicing tomato.
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and warm each flour tortilla for 15–20 seconds on each side. Stack in a kitchen towel.
- On a warm tortilla, layer about ¼ cup of warm rice. Top with ⅓–½ cup of the cheesy buffalo chicken mixture, black beans, corn, shredded lettuce, sliced red onion, and diced tomato.
- Sprinkle extra cheese on top, drizzle with dressing and/or extra buffalo sauce. Fold the sides and roll from the bottom up.
- Place burritos seam-side down in a skillet over medium heat. Cook for 2–3 minutes per side until the exterior is golden brown.
- Remove burritos from the skillet and let rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing in half. Serve hot with extra buffalo sauce, dressing, lime wedges, and a sprinkle of cilantro and green onions.
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