
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

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.

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.