1. Introduction to the Recipe

There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm, cheesy burrito—especially when it’s baked to perfection. If you love Mexican-inspired dishes, you’ll adore these Cheesy Baked Burritos. Packed with shredded rotisserie chicken, black beans, and a zesty enchilada sauce, these burritos are full of flavor and texture. The melted cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese take this dish to the next level, creating that perfect cheese pull with every bite.

What makes these burritos even more enticing is their convenience. Using rotisserie chicken simplifies the prep work, and the combination of fresh ingredients like lime juice, cilantro, and black beans adds a burst of brightness that balances the richness of the cheese. Whether you’re preparing dinner for the family or meal prepping for the week, these Cheesy Baked Burritos are sure to please.

Looking for more Mexican-inspired recipes? Explore this easy enchilada recipe or try these homemade taco bowls for more delicious ideas.

2. Basic Recipe: Ingredients and Instructions

Cheesy Baked Burritos Recipe

Author: Sarah White

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Description

Try these Cheesy Baked Burritos with shredded chicken, black beans, and melted cheese! Perfect for a satisfying, family-friendly dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil
1 onion, chopped

2 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
1 cup enchilada sauce

Juice of 1 lime
Kosher salt, to taste
Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups cooked white rice
1 cup cheddar cheese, divided

1 cup Monterey Jack cheese
6 large flour tortillas
Sour cream, for serving (optional)

Hot sauce, for serving (optional)
Chopped cilantro, for serving (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little olive oil or cooking spray.

Prepare the Filling:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the shredded rotisserie chicken, enchilada sauce, lime juice, salt, and black pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through.
Add Beans and Rice:
Stir in the black beans and cooked rice, mixing until everything is well combined and the mixture is evenly coated with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the skillet from the heat.
Assemble the Burritos:
Lay each tortilla flat on a clean surface. Divide the chicken mixture evenly among the tortillas, placing it in the center of each one. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top of the filling. Carefully roll up each tortilla, folding in the sides as you go to form a burrito.

Arrange in the Baking Dish:
Place the rolled burritos seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Once all the burritos are in the dish, sprinkle the remaining cheddar and Monterey Jack cheese on top.
Bake the Burritos:
Bake the burritos in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the tortillas are slightly crispy around the edges.
Serve and Enjoy:
Once the burritos are done, remove them from the oven and allow them to cool for a few minutes. Serve with a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of hot sauce, and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, if desired.

Keywords: Cheesy Baked Burritos

3. Advanced Techniques

1. Adding Extra Veggies

To boost the nutritional value of these burritos, you can add extra vegetables like bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini to the chicken mixture. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the chicken. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add more color and texture to your burritos.

2. Spice it Up with Jalapeños

If you love spice, consider adding diced fresh jalapeños to the filling or sprinkling some crushed red pepper flakes over the top before baking. You can even swap out the mild enchilada sauce for a spicier version to kick the heat up a notch.

3. Crispy Tortillas

For an extra crispy burrito, lightly toast the tortillas before filling them. You can do this by briefly heating them in a dry skillet for 30 seconds on each side until they just begin to brown. This step will help prevent the tortillas from becoming soggy once baked and give them a satisfying crunch.

4. Layered Baking Technique

For even more cheesy goodness, try a layered approach. Instead of placing all the burritos in one layer, add a layer of the chicken and rice mixture at the bottom of the baking dish, top it with cheese, and then add another layer of burritos. This creates a cheesy base and makes for a more indulgent experience.

5. Make-Ahead Burritos

To make these burritos in advance, assemble them as directed and place them in the baking dish. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, simply pop them in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time since they’ll be cold from the fridge.

See more advanced recipes at cookingwhite.com

4. Storage, Shelf Life, and Maintenance Tips

1. Storing Leftovers

Store leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The burritos will retain their flavor and texture, and you can enjoy them again for lunch or dinner.

2. Freezing Burritos

If you want to make a larger batch and freeze some for later, these burritos freeze beautifully! After baking, allow the burritos to cool completely. Then, wrap each one tightly in foil or plastic wrap and place them in a freezer-safe bag. They will stay fresh for up to 3 months. To reheat, bake them in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through.

3. Reheating Tips

When reheating burritos, use the oven for the best results. Place them in a baking dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This will help the tortillas stay soft while keeping the cheese gooey. You can also microwave them, but be aware the texture may not be as crispy.

4. Preventing Soggy Burritos

To prevent soggy burritos, make sure your filling is not too wet before rolling them up. If the enchilada sauce is too runny, consider draining it slightly before adding it to the chicken mixture. Also, avoid overstuffing the burritos, which can lead to leaks while baking.

5. Serving Suggestions

To add variety, serve the burritos with sides like guacamole, Mexican street corn, or a simple side salad with fresh lettuce and tomatoes. These sides complement the rich and cheesy burritos, balancing the flavors and textures.

5. Dietary Adaptations and Substitutions

1. Vegetarian Option

For a vegetarian version, replace the shredded chicken with sautéed vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and zucchini. You can also add black or pinto beans for protein. This version is just as flavorful and perfect for meatless Mondays.

2. Gluten-Free Burritos

If you’re following a gluten-free diet, swap the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas. Be sure to check that your enchilada sauce is also gluten-free, as some brands may contain gluten.

3. Low-Carb Version

For a low-carb alternative, use low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps instead of flour tortillas. Replace the rice with cauliflower rice for a lighter, low-carb version without sacrificing flavor.

4. Dairy-Free Option

To make these burritos dairy-free, use dairy-free cheese alternatives such as vegan shredded cheese. You can also substitute the sour cream with a dairy-free version or a simple guacamole for added creaminess.

5. Low-Sodium Version

To reduce the sodium content, use low-sodium black beans, enchilada sauce, and cheese. You can also control the amount of salt added to the chicken mixture to suit your taste while keeping the overall dish lower in sodium.

6. FAQs About the Recipe

1. Can I use ground meat instead of chicken?

Yes, ground beef or turkey would work great in place of shredded chicken. Just cook the meat thoroughly and season it with your preferred spices before combining it with the other ingredients.

2. Can I make these burritos without cheese?

If you’re avoiding cheese, you can omit it entirely or replace it with a dairy-free cheese substitute. The burritos will still be delicious with the flavorful chicken and rice mixture.

3. Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble and refrigerate the burritos up to a day in advance, then bake them when ready. This is perfect for meal prep or a busy weeknight.

4. How can I make these burritos spicier?

To add spice, increase the amount of hot sauce, add diced jalapeños to the filling, or opt for a spicy enchilada sauce. You

can also sprinkle some chili flakes or cayenne pepper on top before baking.

5. What can I use instead of flour tortillas?

If you’re looking for a low-carb or gluten-free option, try using corn tortillas, lettuce wraps, or even large cabbage leaves. These are excellent substitutes and can be baked the same way.

7. Conclusion & Final Thoughts

These Cheesy Baked Burritos are the perfect combination of creamy, cheesy goodness and savory chicken and rice. With a tangy kick from the enchilada sauce and a zesty twist of lime, each bite is bursting with flavor. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy meal at home or looking to impress guests with a fuss-free dinner, these burritos are a winner every time.

Make them ahead of time, customize them to fit your preferences, or simply enjoy them fresh from the oven. Whatever the occasion, these burritos are sure to satisfy every craving. So, grab your tortillas, and get ready to enjoy one of the most comforting and flavorful meals around!