If you have a craving for something hearty, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe is going to become one of your all-time favorites. The tender, perfectly seasoned chicken paired with creamy avocado and melty cheese wrapped in warm tortillas creates a harmony of textures and tastes that feels like a warm hug in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a casual weekend gathering, these burritos hit the sweet spot between nutritious and indulgent with ease.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays an essential role, from the zesty seasonings that awaken the chicken to the fresh veggies that add vibrant color and crispness. With just a handful of quality ingredients, you can assemble a meal that looks as good as it tastes.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein that becomes juicy and flavorful when seasoned well.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps in cooking the chicken evenly and adds a subtle richness.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a smoky heat that awakens your taste buds.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Brings an earthy warmth that complements the chicken perfectly.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Intensifies the savory profile of the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances the depth of flavor subtly.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): Adds a delicious smoky note for extra complexity.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential to bring all the flavors together.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds a bright, fresh contrast to the rich chicken and avocado.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Soft and warm, perfect for wrapping all the fillings.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy texture and mild flavor that balances the spices.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend): Melts beautifully and adds gooey goodness.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): Adds creaminess and a tangy kick.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): Brings a fresh herbal brightness to the burrito.
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce: Adds a pleasant crunch and color.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Lends juicy freshness and splash of color.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional): Offers a punchy bite and vibrant purple color.
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional): For those who love to dial up the heat or tang.
How to Make Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While waiting for the oil to warm, season the chicken breasts generously with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Once the skillet is hot, add the chicken and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until perfectly cooked through and no longer pink in the center. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after cooking to lock in the juices. Then slice it into thin, tender strips and drizzle with lime juice for a lively, citrusy kick that elevates the flavor instantly.
Step 2: Prepare the Tortillas and Fillings
To make wrapping easier and prevent tearing, warm the flour tortillas either in a dry skillet or briefly in the microwave. The tortillas need to be pliable but not too hot. Lay each tortilla flat on a plate as your assembly station. This is where all the magic happens—layer your ingredients starting with a few creamy avocado slices, then add the warm sliced chicken followed by a generous sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. If you’re using sour cream or Greek yogurt, add a dollop now to add luscious creaminess.
Step 3: Add Fresh Veggies and Roll
Top your chicken and avocado with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, and red onion for a fresh crunch and vibrant color. A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a wonderful herbal aroma and bright flavor punch that ties everything together. Now, fold in the sides of your tortilla gently and roll it up tightly from the bottom, making sure all your delicious fillings stay inside. This rolling technique ensures each bite is perfectly balanced.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve your Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe immediately while they’re warm and melty. Add salsa or hot sauce on the side to customize your spice level, and prepare for some serious compliments from everyone at the table!
How to Serve Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
Adding the right garnishes can take your Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe to the next level. Fresh lime wedges, a sprinkle of chopped cilantro, or a dollop of sour cream elevate the presentation and flavor. You might also consider a light drizzle of your favorite hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños for that extra kick if you’re feeling adventurous.
Side Dishes
This burrito pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides that complement its fresh and zesty flavors. Serve with Mexican-style rice, refried beans, or a colorful corn salad to round out the meal. A crisp green salad or tortilla chips with guacamole also make great accompaniments, balancing creaminess and crunch with every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to charm your guests? Try slicing the burritos into bite-sized pinwheels for fun appetizers or make a burrito bowl by skipping the wrap and layering all the ingredients in a bowl for a lighter, open-faced version. Wrapping your burritos in foil for a picnic or busy day out makes them portable and mess-free.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers of this Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe, store them wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or foil in the fridge. It’s best to separate any avocado slices or fresh veggies if you wish to keep the burrito from becoming soggy. Stored properly, the flavors will stay fresh for up to two days.
Freezing
Freezing fully assembled burritos can be tricky due to the fresh ingredients, but you can freeze cooked chicken strips separately in an airtight container for up to three months. When ready to eat, defrost and assemble with fresh avocado and other fillings for best texture and taste.
Reheating
To reheat your leftovers, unwrap the burrito and warm it in a dry skillet over medium heat until heated through and the cheese is melted, or microwave it briefly, though the skillet method helps keep the tortilla slightly crisp. Add fresh avocado and toppings after reheating to keep that fresh flavor and creamy texture intact.
FAQs
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Absolutely! This Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe works wonderfully with beef, pork, shrimp, or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian twist. Just adjust the seasoning and cooking time accordingly.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the flour tortillas for gluten-free tortillas or large lettuce leaves for a low-carb, gluten-free alternative without compromising on flavor.
What’s the best way to slice the chicken?
Once the chicken has rested after cooking, slice it thinly against the grain to ensure each bite is tender and easy to chew. Thin strips also make wrapping and layering inside the burrito much easier.
Can I prepare the ingredients in advance for meal prep?
Definitely! You can season and cook the chicken ahead of time, chop the veggies, and even pre-portion cheese and avocado slices. Assemble just before eating to keep everything fresh and vibrant.
What other toppings can I add to customize my burrito?
Feel free to get creative with your toppings! Pickled jalapeños, black beans, corn kernels, diced mango, or even a spicy mayo drizzle would all be delicious additions to change things up.
Final Thoughts
Making this Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe is not just about creating a meal; it’s about savoring every bite and sharing something comforting and flavorful with friends or family. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight dinner but special enough to impress anyone. Give it a try—once you’ve tasted these juicy chicken strips with creamy avocado wrapped in warm tortillas, you’ll surely want to make it a staple in your recipe collection!
Print
Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Chicken and Avocado Burritos are a quick and flavorful meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Tender, spiced chicken breast is cooked to perfection and wrapped in warm flour tortillas with creamy avocado, shredded cheese, fresh veggies, and optional sour cream or Greek yogurt. Ready in just 25 minutes, these burritos combine wholesome ingredients with bold Mexican-inspired flavors, making them a satisfying and delicious choice for the whole family.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasoning
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
Burrito Assembly
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend)
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Season the chicken breasts with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika if using, salt, and pepper. Place chicken in the skillet and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Slice Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes to retain juices. Then slice the chicken into thin strips and drizzle with lime juice to add freshness.
- Warm Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet over low heat or place them in the microwave for 10-15 seconds to make them pliable and easy to roll without cracking.
- Assemble Burritos: Lay each warm tortilla flat on a plate. In the center of each tortilla, place a few slices of avocado, some sliced chicken breast, and a generous amount of shredded cheese. Add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt if using.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Top the fillings with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion slices if using, and sprinkle with chopped fresh cilantro for added flavor and crunch.
- Roll the Burritos: Carefully fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then tightly roll it from the bottom up to enclose all the fillings, forming a burrito shape.
- Serve: Serve the burritos immediately while warm, accompanied by salsa or hot sauce on the side for extra zesty flavor.
Notes
- You can substitute the flour tortillas with whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas for a healthier or gluten-free option.
- If you prefer a spicier burrito, add jalapeños or hot sauce inside the filling.
- For a low-fat alternative, use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream and reduce the amount of cheese.
- Leftover cooked chicken can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated for an easy meal.
- To make it vegetarian, replace chicken with grilled vegetables or beans.
