What Is A Burrito and How to Make A Classic Chicken Burrito

What Is A Mexican Burrito?

A Mexican burrito is a traditional dish from Mexico that typically consists of a large, flour tortilla wrapped around a variety of fillings such as rice, beans, meat (usually chicken, beef or pork), cheese, salsa, guacamole, and other toppings. The burrito is then folded or rolled to enclose the fillings.

Over time, the dish evolved to include a wider variety of fillings and toppings, and it is now a popular dish in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine.

Who Invented the Burrito?

The origin of the burrito is not well-documented, so it is unclear who exactly "invented" the dish. However, it is believed to have originated in Mexico, specifically in the northern state of Chihuahua, in the early 20th century.

The traditional burrito at the time consisted of a simple filling of meat and cheese wrapped in a flour tortilla. The word "burrito" itself means "little donkey" in Spanish, which could be reference to the shape or size of the dish, or to the fact that it was a food that was easy to transport, similar to how donkeys were used to carry goods. 

What Is a Chicken Burrito?

A chicken burrito is a type of burrito that typically includes a tortilla filled with shredded or diced chicken, along with various other ingredients such as rice, beans, cheese, salsa, and various toppings. The tortilla is typically wrapped around the filling to create a handheld meal that can be eaten on the go. Burritos can be enjoyed hot or cold, and can vary in spiciness and flavor depending on the ingredients used.

Typical Side Dishes and Topping

Burritos are often served with a variety of sides and toppings that complement the flavors of the dish. Some common sides and toppings that are served with burritos include:

• Salsa: A sauce made from tomatoes, onions, and chili peppers that adds a tangy, spicy flavor to the burrito.
• Guacamole: A dip made from mashed avocados, lime juice, and seasonings that adds a creamy, rich flavor to the burrito.
• Sour cream: A tangy and creamy topping that adds a cool and rich contrast to the spicy flavors of the burrito.
• Cheese: shredded cheese can be added on top of the burrito, it can also be mixed with the filling, adding a creamy and salty flavor to the burrito.
• Lettuce: fresh, crisp lettuce adds a crunchy texture and a refreshing taste to the burrito.
• Jalapeños: sliced, pickled or fresh jalapeño peppers can add a nice spicy kick to the burrito.

Additionally, some people like to serve burritos with a side of beans, rice, or refried beans, which can be added to the burrito or served on the side, adding more protein and carbs to the meal. It is also common to serve burritos with a variety of drink options, such as soda, beer, or horchata, a sweet, milky, cinnamon-flavored drink.

📖 Recipe

Print Recipe

Chicken Burrito

What a meal!

Prep Time15 minutes mins

Cook Time15 minutes mins

Assemble time10 minutes mins

Total Time40 minutes mins

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Mexican

Keyword: beans, chicken

Servings: 8 burritos

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breasts boneless and skinless
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 red bell pepper diced
• 1 onion diced
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
• ½ cup cheddar cheese shredded
• 8 10 inch flour tortillas
• chopped lettuce optional
• salsa optional
• sour cream optional
• chopped cilantro optional

Instructions

• In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture all over the chicken breasts.
• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside to cool.
• In the same skillet, add the diced bell pepper and onion. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
• While the vegetables are cooking, shred the chicken using two forks or your hands.
• Add the shredded chicken to the skillet with the vegetables and stir to combine.
• Add the cooked rice and black beans to the skillet and stir until everything is well combined.Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave or on a dry skillet, for about 20-30 seconds.
• To assemble the burritos, lay a tortilla on a flat surface. Spoon some of the chicken mixture onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a little room around the edges. Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top. Roll the tortilla up tightly, tucking in the edges as you go, to create a burrito.
• Heat a clean skillet over medium heat and place the burritos on the skillet, seam-side down. Cook for 1-2 minutes per side, or until lightly golden and crispy.
• Serve the burritos with lettuce, salsa, sour cream, and cilantro, if desired.

Notes

Feel free to adjust the spices and ingredients to your taste preference. You can also add additional toppings such as lettuce, avocado or jalapenos.

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