There’s something utterly satisfying about a well-made burrito, and this Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe is a brilliant example. Bursting with juicy, spiced chicken, creamy avocado slices, and fresh, vibrant veggies all wrapped in a warm flour tortilla, this dish perfectly balances comfort and zest. Whether you’re craving a quick lunch or a crowd-pleasing dinner, these burritos are simple to assemble and shine with every bite. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will quickly earn a permanent spot in your meal rotation!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step toward making these Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe truly shine. Each component is selected to create a harmonious combination of flavors, textures, and colors that bring this dish to life.
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star protein, juicy and tender when cooked properly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Perfect for searing the chicken to golden perfection.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Adds a warm, smoky spice that wakes up the palate.
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin: Provides earthiness and depth to the chicken seasoning.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Brings subtle pungency and aroma without overpowering.
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder: Enhances flavor layers with mild sweetness.
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional): For an extra smoky twist that’s pure magic.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all flavors.
- 1 tablespoon lime juice: Adds brightness and a tangy finish after cooking.
- 4 large flour tortillas: Soft, pliable wraps that hold all ingredients snugly.
- 1 avocado, sliced: Creamy texture and perfect buttery flavor contrast.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican cheese blend): Melts beautifully for richness and gooey delight.
- 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional): Adds cool creaminess to balance spiciness.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): A fresh herbaceous note that lifts the whole dish.
- 1/2 cup shredded lettuce: Adds crispness and crunch for texture contrast.
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes: Juicy sweetness that complements the savory chicken.
- 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced (optional): Sharpness and subtle bite to keep things exciting.
- Salsa or hot sauce (optional): For those who love an extra kick of flavor.
How to Make Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Chicken
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. While it warms, generously season the chicken breasts with a blend of chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika if you’re using it, plus salt and pepper. These seasonings bring a rich, layered flavor that’s essential to this Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook for about 6 to 7 minutes on each side until perfectly cooked through and no longer pink inside.
Step 2: Rest and Slice the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. This step is crucial because it allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat juicy and tender. After resting, slice the chicken into thin strips and give it a light drizzle of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors right before assembling your burrito.
Step 3: Warm the Tortillas
Warm your flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for about 10 to 15 seconds. This softens them so they roll up easily without cracking – a small but game-changing tip in the art of burrito making.
Step 4: Assemble the Burritos
Lay each warm tortilla flat and layer in the center slices of fresh avocado, strips of that perfectly spiced chicken, and a generous handful of shredded cheese. Don’t forget the dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if you’re using it, for that luxurious creamy touch. Top this all with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, thin slices of red onion, and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro to add freshness and crunch.
Step 5: Roll It Up and Serve
Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll firmly from the bottom up to enclose all the delicious fillings. Serve your Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe immediately with salsa or hot sauce on the side for anyone wanting to kick up the flavor to the next level.
How to Serve Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh cilantro and an extra wedge of lime add wonderful color and brightness to each serving. You can also offer sliced jalapeños or a few pickled onions on the side to introduce a playful zing that pairs beautifully with the mellow avocado and smoky chicken.
Side Dishes
Keep it simple and fresh with a crisp green salad or crunchy tortilla chips and salsa for that classic burrito experience. A side of Mexican rice or black beans turns this meal into a fuller feast, perfect for lunch or dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice your burritos into pinwheels, securing them with toothpicks—these make fantastic appetizers for gatherings. Alternatively, serve the components deconstructed, letting everyone build their own burrito, which is always a hit for casual entertaining.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftover Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe, wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors meld beautifully after a day, making leftovers a delight.
Freezing
To freeze, wrap each burrito individually in foil and place them in an airtight freezer bag. They’ll stay fresh for up to 2 months. When you want a quick meal, just thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat.
Reheating
Reheat your burritos in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally, so the outside gets crispy and the cheese melts evenly. You can also use a microwave, but the skillet method preserves the texture best.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using rotisserie chicken can save time and still deliver fantastic flavor. Just shred the chicken and season it lightly with the recommended spices and lime juice before assembling your burritos.
What kind of avocado works best?
Choose an avocado that yields slightly under gentle pressure, indicating ripeness without being too mushy. This ensures creamy texture that holds up well in the burrito.
Can I make these burritos vegan?
Yes! Substitute the chicken for seasoned grilled tofu or beans, swap cheese for a plant-based version, and skip the sour cream or use a vegan alternative to make this recipe fully plant-based.
Are there low-carb options for this recipe?
To keep it low-carb, swap the flour tortillas for large lettuce leaves or low-carb wraps; the delicious fillings still shine without the extra carbs.
How spicy is this Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe?
The spice level is mild to moderate, perfect for most palates. You can easily adjust it by adding more chili powder, hot sauce, or fresh jalapeños if you like it hotter.
Final Thoughts
This Chicken and Avocado Burritos Recipe is a shining example of simple ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Easy to make, endlessly delicious, and wonderfully customizable, it’s bound to become your go-to meal for busy days and casual get-togethers alike. Go ahead, grab your apron, and enjoy the magic of biting into your very own homemade burrito packed with flavor and love!
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: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
These Chicken and Avocado Burritos are a quick and delicious meal perfect for lunch or dinner. Juicy seasoned chicken breasts are cooked on the stovetop and paired with creamy avocado, shredded cheese, fresh veggies, and optional sour cream or Greek yogurt, all wrapped in warm flour tortillas. The combination of smoky spices and fresh lime juice creates a flavorful, satisfying burrito that comes together in just 25 minutes.
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 for extra flavor)
- 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 to prepare for cooking the chicken.
- Season the Chicken: Season the chicken breasts evenly with chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika if using, salt, and pepper.
- Cook Thoroughly: Place the chicken breasts 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: Remove the cooked chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then slice the chicken into thin strips and drizzle with lime juice to add fresh acidity.
- Warm the Tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for 10-15 seconds to soften and make them pliable for rolling.
- Assemble Burritos: Lay each warmed tortilla flat on a plate. Add avocado slices, chicken strips, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt, if desired, in the center.
- Add Fresh Veggies: Top the fillings with shredded lettuce, diced tomatoes, red onion slices if using, and fresh chopped cilantro.
- Roll the Burritos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla carefully, then roll from the bottom tightly to form a secure burrito.
- Serve: Serve immediately with salsa or hot sauce on the side for added flavor and spice.
Notes
- For spicier burritos, add jalapeños or use hot salsa as a topping.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, substitute flour tortillas with corn tortillas or gluten-free wraps.
- Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative to sour cream and adds extra protein.
- Leftover burritos can be wrapped in foil and refrigerated for up to 2 days; reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
- Smoked paprika is optional but adds a rich smoky flavor enhancing the overall taste.
