Easy Chicken Bean Cheese Burrito

Featured in Evening Meals Made Beautiful.

Homemade chicken burritos with Mexican spices, rice, beans, corn and cheese. Makes 8 burritos in 30 minutes. Perfect for dinner or meal prep.
Barbara Chef
Recipe by Barbara
Updated on Tue, 04 Feb 2025 16:27:53 GMT
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Taco bell chicken burrito | gracefulflavors.com

A homestyle version of Taco Bell's chicken burrito combines tender seasoned meat, creamy refried beans, and melted cheese in a warm tortilla. This recipe recreates the beloved flavors while letting you control ingredients and portions.

My family requests these burritos weekly - the homemade spice blend makes all the difference.

Essential Ingredients

  • Boneless chicken breasts - Choose fresh, evenly sized pieces
  • Mexican spice blend - Mix smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin and oregano
  • Large flour tortillas - Burrito-size works best
  • Refried beans - Creates creamy base
  • Mexican rice - Absorbs flavors perfectly
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Easy Taco bell chicken burrito | gracefulflavors.com

Detailed Instructions

Step 1:
Mix spices and coat chicken thoroughly. Rest 10 minutes
Step 2:
Heat oil in skillet over medium-high heat
Step 3:
Cook chicken until golden, 6-7 minutes per side
Step 4:
Remove chicken, sauté onions and peppers until soft
Step 5:
Add garlic and chicken back to pan, cook 2 minutes
Step 6:
Warm tortillas, spread beans in center
Step 7:
Layer rice, chicken mixture, cheese
Step 8:
Fold sides, roll tightly from bottom
Step 9:
Optional: Toast seam-side down
Step 10:
Rest 5 minutes before slicing

Making these regularly taught me to prep ingredients while the chicken cooks - saves time without sacrificing flavor.

Storage Success

Create a burrito assembly line and freeze extras wrapped in foil. Reheat in oven or microwave for quick meals.

Family Modifications

Set up a build-your-own bar with various toppings. Kids love choosing their fillings.

Chef's Helpful Tips

After years of making these, I've found the key is getting the spice blend just right - don't skimp on the smoked paprika.

Perfect Weeknight Variations

Choose protein alternatives like shredded beef or pork. Swap rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice.

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Quick Sides

Mix corn with lime juice and chili powder for instant elote-style salad. Blend avocado with sour cream for creamy topping.

Meal Prep Success

Portion fillings separately

Store assembled burritos wrapped individually

Label with contents and date

Elevate Your Burrito

Add pickled red onions

Mix chipotle sauce with mayo

Toast both sides until crispy

Chef's Extra Tips

Slice meat against grain

Rest filled burritos before cutting

Keep ingredients at room temperature

Use two tortillas for extra stability

The versatility of this recipe makes it perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.

Recipe Tips & Questions

→ Can I freeze these burritos?
Yes, wrap individually in plastic and freeze up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
→ What can I substitute for Mexican rice?
Plain white rice, brown rice, or cilantro lime rice work well as alternatives.
→ How do I prevent the tortillas from breaking?
Warm them slightly before rolling and don't overfill. This keeps them flexible.
→ Can I use rotisserie chicken?
Yes, shred rotisserie chicken and heat with the seasonings for a quick shortcut.
→ What's the best way to reheat?
Wrap in damp paper towel and microwave 1-2 minutes or until heated through.

Homemade Taco Bell Burrito

Warm tortillas filled with seasoned chicken, rice, beans and cheese - better than takeout and ready in just 30 minutes.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
Recipe by: Barbara

Recipe Type: Dinner Delights

Skill Level: Moderate

Style of Cooking: Mexican

Makes: 8 Serves (8 burritos)

Dietary Notes: ~

What You'll Need

→ Chicken Filling

01 1 lb skinless and boneless chicken breasts
02 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
03 1 teaspoon chili powder
04 1 teaspoon cumin
05 1 teaspoon dried oregano
06 ½ teaspoon salt
07 ¼ teaspoon pepper
08 2 tablespoons olive oil
09 1 small onion, chopped
10 3 cloves garlic, minced
11 1 medium red bell pepper, chopped
12 ¼ cup water

→ Burrito Assembly

13 1 ½ cups refried beans
14 2 cups Mexican rice
15 1 cup canned corn
16 8 large flour tortillas
17 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Let's Cook!

Step 01

In a bowl, combine salt, pepper, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, and dried oregano. Mix well.

Step 02

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken pieces, sprinkle with spice mixture, and cook until no longer pink in center.

Step 03

Remove chicken from skillet. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and red bell pepper. Sauté until vegetables are softened.

Step 04

Warm tortillas according to package instructions. Spread refried beans on each tortilla. Add chicken filling, Mexican rice, corn, and shredded cheese. Fold sides and roll tightly.

Step 05

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place burritos seam-side down on lined baking sheet. Bake for 5 minutes until slightly crispy and cheese melts.

Cook's Notes

  1. Can be stored in refrigerator for up to 3 days
  2. Can be frozen for up to 3 months
  3. Reheat wrapped in damp paper towel

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Baking sheet
  • Parchment paper
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Allergy Notes

Always check ingredients carefully for allergens. When in doubt, please consult your healthcare provider.
  • Contains dairy (cheese)
  • Contains wheat (tortillas)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

These values are estimates and should be used as a general guide.
  • Calories: 413
  • Total Fat: ~
  • Total Carbohydrate: ~
  • Protein: ~