Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

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Rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos are the kind of comforting dish that transforms an ordinary dinner into a full-on fiesta. These burritos are filled with tender shredded chicken, rolled in soft flour tortillas, and baked to golden perfection under a blanket of a savory, creamy enchilada-style sauce. The final touch? A vibrant sprinkle of fresh tomatoes and cilantro that brightens every bite.

Whether you’re hosting friends for a cozy dinner or just craving a hearty homemade meal, this dish checks all the boxes. It’s easy to assemble, incredibly satisfying, and tastes even better than your favorite Tex-Mex takeout. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with a simple green salad, Spanish rice, or refried beans for the ultimate plate. Let’s dive into what you’ll need to bring this crave-worthy comfort food to life.

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Ingredients for Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos

• 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken breast (rotisserie works great)
• 1 (10 oz) can enchilada sauce (red or green)
• 1 (4 oz) can diced green chilies
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (optional for spice)
• 1 (8 oz) package cream cheese, softened
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese, divided
• 6 large flour tortillas
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for greasing the baking dish)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chopped cilantro (for garnish)
• Diced tomatoes (for topping)

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Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, half of the enchilada sauce, diced green chilies, cumin, garlic powder, paprika, chili powder (if using), and softened cream cheese. Mix everything thoroughly until the chicken is evenly coated and the cream cheese is fully incorporated. Stir in 1 cup of shredded cheese. Add salt and pepper to taste.

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Step 2: Assemble the Burritos

Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon the chicken mixture evenly into the center of each tortilla. Roll them up tightly, folding in the sides to secure the filling, and place seam-side down into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Make sure they’re snugly arranged to prevent unrolling while baking.

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Step 3: Make the Smothering Sauce

In a medium bowl, whisk together the remaining enchilada sauce and sour cream until smooth. Pour this luscious mixture evenly over the assembled burritos in the baking dish, making sure each one is generously coated. Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded cheese over the top.

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Step 4: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cover the baking dish loosely with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for another 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden on top.

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Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, let the burritos rest for about 5 minutes. Top with fresh diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro. Serve warm with your favorite sides like Spanish rice, black beans, or a crisp green salad.

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Storage Instructions

Leftovers? You’re in luck—Smothered Baked Chicken Burritos taste just as amazing the next day. Here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerator: Transfer cooled burritos to an airtight container or wrap them individually in foil or plastic wrap. They’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Wrap each burrito in foil, then place them in a zip-top freezer bag. Store for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 15–20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2–3 minutes until heated through. Add a little extra sauce or cheese if desired for a fresh-out-the-oven taste.

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Estimated Nutrition

Per serving (1 burrito, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 510
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 28g
• Carbohydrates: 34g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 720mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on specific brands and portion sizes used.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Rotisserie chicken is a great time-saver and adds extra flavor to the filling.

2. Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble them up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Add the sauce and cheese just before baking.

3. What type of enchilada sauce should I use?

Either red or green enchilada sauce works—choose based on your flavor preference. Red is richer; green is zestier.

4. Are these burritos spicy?

They’re mild, but you can add jalapeños, extra chili powder, or hot sauce if you want a kick.

5. Can I make it gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free tortillas and make sure your enchilada sauce and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

6. How can I make this dish healthier?

Swap sour cream with Greek yogurt, use low-fat cheese, and opt for whole wheat or low-carb tortillas.

7. What can I serve with chicken burritos?

Try them with cilantro lime rice, guacamole, pico de gallo, or a fresh garden salad.

8. Can I add beans or rice inside the burritos?

Definitely! Black beans, refried beans, or Spanish rice make great add-ins for a heartier burrito.

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