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These crispy chicken bell pepper ranch burritos are everything you crave in a weeknight dinner flavorful juicy chicken mixed with bright sautéed peppers all wrapped up and grilled until golden These consistently bring my family to the table and have become my go to when everyone wants something hearty and satisfying quickly
The first time I made these burritos was during a busy school night My teenage son now asks for them on every game day and I love how easy cleanup is
Ingredients
- Cooked chicken breast: shredded gives you juicy protein through every bite try to use freshly cooked or rotisserie for the best flavor
- Red yellow and green bell peppers: bring color sweetness and crunch choose peppers that are bright and firm for maximum freshness
- Red onion: sliced offers subtle sharpness and added bite look for onions that are heavy and free of soft spots
- Olive oil: helps the veggies caramelize and enhances their flavor opt for extra virgin for the best taste
- Salt and pepper: pulls all the flavors together choose fresh cracked pepper for vibrant flavor
- Ranch seasoning: provides that creamy tangy punch I always go for the packet for consistency
- Sour cream: makes the sauce rich and smooth look for full fat for the creamiest result
- Cheddar cheese: brings melty comfort sharp cheddar melts perfectly and adds zing
- Large flour tortillas: hold everything together make sure they are soft and fresh for easy rolling
- Fresh cilantro (optional): adds a pop of brightness and freshness always use freshly chopped for the boldest flavor
- Cooking spray or butter: ensures a crispy golden crust use either depending on preference for richness
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add bell peppers and red onion Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes stirring occasionally until vegetables are softened and start to get a slight char Season with salt and pepper at the end to avoid drawing out too much moisture
- Prepare the Ranch Sauce:
- Combine sour cream and ranch seasoning in a medium mixing bowl Stir them together until you have a smooth even sauce with no streaks This simple sauce is what makes every bite tangy and irresistible
- Coat the Chicken:
- Toss the cooked shredded chicken into a large mixing bowl Pour the ranch sauce over the chicken and stir until every strand is coated This keeps the chicken super moist and flavorful and helps bind the filling
- Warm the Tortillas:
- Briefly warm the tortillas either wrapped in a damp paper towel in the microwave for 20 seconds or on a dry skillet one by one This step makes them more pliable so they do not tear during rolling
- Assemble the Burritos:
- Lay each tortilla flat Spoon an even portion of ranch coated chicken down the center Add a generous scoop of sautéed peppers and onions Sprinkle with cheddar cheese Roll the tortilla up tightly folding in the edges so the filling stays put
- Grill the Burritos:
- Heat a grill pan or clean skillet over medium high Spray lightly with cooking spray or melt a little butter Place burritos seam side down and cook for 2 to 3 minutes per side until the outside is crisp and golden brown The cheese should be melted and gooey inside
- Finish and Serve:
- Remove the burritos from the skillet Slice if desired and sprinkle with fresh cilantro Serve immediately and enjoy every crisp tangy bite
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I have a special place in my heart for ranch seasoning It has saved more boring dinners than I can count and always reminds me of cozy Sunday afternoons cooking with my mom as a kid
Storage Tips
Let burritos cool completely before wrapping individually in foil or plastic They keep in the fridge for up to three days and reheat best in a skillet to preserve crispness If freezing place wrapped burritos in an airtight bag and thaw overnight before reheating
Ingredient Substitutions
You can use cooked turkey or even canned chicken in a pinch If you are dairy free swap sour cream for a tangy vegan version and use plant based cheese A smoky salsa or chipotle mayo is also delicious if you want a different flavor spin
Serving Suggestions
- Pair these burritos with a simple side salad tortilla chips or a bowl of black bean soup They are also great cut into halves or thirds as party snacks with extra ranch or salsa for dipping
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Cultural Context
While burritos are a staple of Mexican American cuisine this crispy version takes inspiration from Tex Mex flavors and adds that very American ranch twist This mashup makes it a fun crowd pleaser you will find at family cookouts and casual gatherings rather than in traditional Mexican kitchens
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How do I keep the burritos extra crispy?
Grill the filled burritos seam-side down in a hot, lightly greased skillet, pressing gently to create golden, crusty surfaces.
- → Can I substitute rotisserie chicken?
Yes, using precooked rotisserie chicken saves time and adds extra flavor to the burritos.
- → What other cheeses can I use?
Pepper jack, Monterey Jack, or mozzarella all melt beautifully, offering distinctive flavor variations.
- → How do I make this meal spicier?
Add sliced jalapeños to the peppers or mix a pinch of cayenne into the ranch sauce for extra heat.
- → Are these burritos freezer-friendly?
Yes, assemble and wrap the burritos, then freeze ungrilled. Reheat and crisp in a skillet straight from the freezer.
- → Can I use whole wheat tortillas?
Whole wheat tortillas work just as well and add a wholesome, nutty flavor to these burritos.