The aroma of spicy buffalo sauce mingling with melted cheese wafted through my kitchen, bringing back memories of cozy game nights and laughter shared over good food. That’s when I knew it was time to whip up some Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos. This recipe combines tender chicken with that fiery buffalo flavor, giving you a crowd-pleasing dish that’s just as perfect for a family dinner as it is for a casual get-together with friends. Not only are these burritos packed with cheesy goodness, but they also make for a quick and satisfying meal you’ll want to repeat again and again. Trust me, once you taste these delights, you’ll be dreaming of your next burrito night. Are you ready to spice things up in your kitchen? Let’s dive into making these mouthwatering burritos!
Why are these burritos a must-try?
Deliciously Spicy: Bursting with buffalo sauce, these burritos deliver the perfect amount of heat to wake up your taste buds.
Cheesy Indulgence: The incredible blend of cheddar and Monterey Jack cheeses creates a scrumptious, gooey center that’s simply irresistible.
Quick and Easy: With just 47 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights when you crave something homemade.
Versatile Filling: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or substitute with rotisserie chicken for an even faster option! For more delicious ideas, you can check this chicken burrito recipe that offers a fun twist.
Crowd-Pleasing: Perfect for gatherings, everyone will be asking for seconds as they savor every cheesy, spicy bite.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burrito Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs – provides tender, juicy meat that absorbs the buffalo sauce beautifully.
• Olive oil – helps to brown the chicken while adding healthy fats.
• Kosher salt – elevates the flavors in your chicken.
• Black pepper – adds a hint of warmth to the seasoning mix.
• Garlic powder – contributes rich, savory notes that complement the buffalo flavor.
• Onion powder – enhances the overall taste with a mild sweetness.
• Smoked paprika – infuses a subtle smokiness, but feel free to use regular paprika if needed.
• Buffalo wing sauce – the zingy star of the show; a medium heat works best for all tastes.
• Unsalted butter – adds richness and helps the sauce cling to the chicken.
For the Fillings
• Shredded cheddar cheese – creates gooey, melty goodness that pairs perfectly with spices.
• Shredded Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese – adds an extra layer of creaminess and flavor.
• Cream cheese – contributes a smooth texture, making the filling lusciously creamy.
• Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt – balances the spice with a cooling touch.
• Finely chopped green onions (scallions) – adds a fresh crunch and bright flavor.
• Finely chopped fresh cilantro – optional but recommended for herbaceous brightness.
• Small jalapeño – if you like it spicy, a finely minced jalapeño takes the heat up a notch.
For the Burritos
• Large flour tortillas (10-inch) – the perfect wrap for all those delicious fillings.
• Cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime) – offers a hearty base and adds texture.
• Canned black beans – add protein and fiber while providing a robust element.
• Corn kernels – sweet and juicy, they brighten every bite.
• Shredded lettuce or finely shredded green cabbage – brings freshness and crunch.
• Small red onion – thinly sliced for a savory bite that complements the filling.
• Large tomato – diced for juicy sweetness; cherry tomatoes are a great alternative.
For Serving
• Extra buffalo sauce – drizzle on top for those who can’t get enough flavor!
• Ranch or blue cheese dressing – perfect for dipping or drizzling over the top.
• Extra shredded cheese – for the ultimate cheesy finish.
• Lime wedges – a squeeze of lime adds zestiness that elevates the entire dish.
• Extra chopped cilantro and green onions – for a fresh finishing touch.
These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are bursting with flavor and guaranteed to delight your family and friends!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
Step 1: Cook the Chicken
Start by patting the 1 ½ lb trim chicken dry with paper towels before cutting it into small bite-sized pieces. In a mixing bowl, toss the chicken with 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, ½ teaspoon black pepper, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon onion powder, and ½ teaspoon smoked paprika until evenly coated. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the seasoned chicken. Cook for 7–9 minutes until golden and cooked through. Then, reduce the heat to low, add ¾ cup buffalo sauce and 2 tablespoon unsalted butter, stirring until melted and the chicken is well-coated. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes to thicken, then set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Cheesy Filling
In a large bowl, combine 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese and 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese. To this, add 4 oz softened cream cheese, ½ cup sour cream, ¼ cup finely chopped green onions, ¼ cup cilantro, and chopped jalapeño if desired. Incorporate the warm buffalo chicken mixture into the cheese blend, folding everything together until the cheeses start to melt and create a creamy filling. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, setting the flavorful filling aside for assembly.
Step 3: Prepare the Burrito Components
Next, warm 1 ½ cups of cooked rice in a microwave or on the stove, seasoning with salt and a splash of optional lime juice to brighten the flavors. While the rice warms, rinse and drain 1 cup canned black beans and 1 cup corn kernels. Prepare the fresh toppings by shredding 1 cup of lettuce or finely slicing green cabbage, thinly slicing 1 small red onion, and dicing 1 large tomato. Ensure all ingredients are ready to build your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos.
Step 4: Warm the Tortillas
Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm each tortilla for about 15–20 seconds on each side, or until pliable and slightly toasted. As you warm them, stack the tortillas in a clean kitchen towel to keep them warm. This will make them easier to roll and prevent tearing, ensuring your burritos are beautifully wrapped and ready for delicious fillings.
Step 5: Assemble the Burritos
Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface, adding around ¼ cup of the warm rice in a line down the center. Spoon about ⅓–½ cup of the cheesy buffalo chicken filling on top, followed by a sprinkle of black beans and corn. Add layers of shredded lettuce, slices of red onion, and diced tomato. If desired, top with extra cheese and a drizzle of ranch or blue cheese dressing for that extra zing before preparing to wrap.
Step 6: Wrap the Burritos
Begin wrapping the burrito by folding the sides of the tortilla inward to encase the filling. Lift the bottom edge over the filling and roll it tightly away from you, ensuring no filling escapes. Repeat this process with the remaining tortillas and filling, placing each burrito seam-side down on a plate. Continue wrapping until all your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are assembled and ready for cooking, if desired.
Step 7: Crisp the Burritos (Optional)
For an added crispy finish, heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat and lightly coat it with oil. Carefully place each burrito seam-side down into the skillet, cooking for 2–3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crisp. This step will enhance the texture of your burritos, giving them a delightful crunch. Let the burritos rest for 1–2 minutes before slicing.
Step 8: Serve
Slice the burritos in half diagonally for a beautiful presentation. Serve with a side of buffalo sauce for those who love an extra kick, along with ranch or blue cheese dressing for dipping. Garnish with lime wedges for a zesty touch, and toss on some extra chopped cilantro and green onions for freshness. Enjoy your deliciously cheesy buffalo chicken burritos with family and friends!
Make Ahead Options
These Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are a fantastic choice for meal prep! You can prepare the buffalo chicken filling and the cheesy mixture up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cook the chicken, mix in the buffalo sauce, and blend in the cheeses, then store everything in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can warm the rice and chop the vegetables up to 3 days prior to assembly. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply reheat the chicken and rice, assemble the burritos, and crisp them in a skillet for 3-5 minutes on each side for that comforting crunch. This prep ahead strategy means you’ll have a delicious, homemade meal ready to go on busy weeknights!
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burrito Variations
Feel free to get creative with these Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos and make them your own!
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Low-Carb: Use large lettuce leaves instead of tortillas for a fresh, crunchy wrap that will cut down on carbs.
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Spicy Kick: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for an extra fiery punch that will tantalize your taste buds.
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Vegetarian Version: Swap out chicken for black bean or lentil filling, using the same seasonings for a delightful meat-free meal.
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Tangy Twist: Stir in a spoonful of barbecue sauce into the buffalo sauce for a sweet and smoky flavor that adds depth to your burritos.
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Herb-Infused Rice: Mix diced fresh herbs, like basil or cilantro, into the rice for a fragrant twist that brightens up every bite.
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Cheese Lovers Delight: Try adding a layer of creamy goat cheese or feta into the filling for a tangy richness that elevates the cheese factor!
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Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked gouda cheese in place of Monterey Jack to introduce a deep, smoky essence to your cheesy filling.
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Crunchy Texture: Top with crushed tortilla chips right before serving for an addictive crunch that complements the burrito's creamy filling beautifully.
With these fun twists and substitutions, you can make your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos truly unique, ensuring everyone at your table finds something they love!
How to Store and Freeze Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
Fridge: Store leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain optimal flavor and texture, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container.
Freezer: These burritos freeze beautifully! Wrap them individually in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They will last up to 3 months.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm in a skillet over medium heat for 5–7 minutes on each side or until heated through. Alternatively, microwave for 2–3 minutes, slightly covered, for a quick reheating option.
Serving Tip: Add extra buffalo sauce or cheese before serving to refresh the flavors of your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos!
What to Serve with Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
The irresistible flavors of buffalo chicken and creamy cheese call for delightful accompaniments to elevate your meal experience.
- Crispy French Fries: Lightly salted and perfectly crispy, they offer a satisfying crunch that pairs well with the soft burritos.
- Fresh Salad: A refreshing salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette balances the richness of the burritos.
- Mexican Street Corn: Roasted corn slathered in mayo, cheese, and spices adds a sweet and savory contrast that’s simply mouthwatering.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa of diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro adds a zesty kick that complements the burritos’ flavors beautifully.
- Guacamole: Creamy and smooth, a scoop of guacamole brings a cooling element that counteracts the spice from the buffalo sauce.
- Fruity Mocktail: A refreshing drink, like a sparkling mango-lime mocktail, will cleanse your palate with a sweet and tangy touch.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: For a sweet finish, warm chocolate chip cookies create the perfect end to your spicy burrito night; who can resist cookies?
Expert Tips for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
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Chicken Choice: Use boneless skinless thighs for juicier bites. They stay moist longer, making your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos extra delicious.
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Seasoning Balance: Be careful not to over-season the filling with salt. Each ingredient adds flavor, so taste as you mix to achieve a perfect blend.
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Tortilla Warm-Up: Always warm your tortillas before assembling. This prevents tearing and makes rolling the burritos much easier, ensuring maximum enjoyment!
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Customize Fillings: Don’t hesitate to add your favorite veggies or beans. It’s a great way to personalize your Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos for everyone’s taste!
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Crispy Option: For extra crunch, remember to crisp the burritos in a skillet. This adds a delightful texture contrast and makes each bite even more satisfying.
Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken should I use for the burritos?
Absolutely! You can use either boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs. I recommend thighs for a juicier and more flavorful result, but both options work wonderfully in this recipe.
How can I store the leftovers?
Leftover Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For the best flavor and texture, it's a great idea to wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap before placing them in the container. This way, they'll stay fresh and delicious!
Can I freeze Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos?
Yes! These burritos freeze beautifully. To do so, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you're ready to enjoy, thaw them overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What’s the best way to reheat them?
For reheating, if frozen, start by thawing overnight in the fridge. Then, heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the burritos for about 5–7 minutes on each side or until they are heated through. Alternatively, you can microwave them for 2–3 minutes, covering them slightly to retain moisture. A drizzle of extra buffalo sauce or a sprinkle of cheese makes for a tasty refresh!
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Great question! If anyone in your group has allergies, be mindful of the cheese, sour cream, and buffalo sauce, which may contain dairy. Additionally, if you want to accommodate gluten sensitivities, you can use gluten-free tortillas instead. Always double-check ingredient labels if you're preparing food for someone with specific dietary needs.
Can I use different types of cheese?
Very much so! While I recommend cheddar and Monterey Jack for creaminess and flavor, feel free to experiment with your favorites. Pepper Jack adds a nice spicy kick, and even a vegan cheese can work if you're looking for a dairy-free option. The more, the merrier when it comes to cheesiness!
Savory Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos Your Family Will Love
Equipment
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Microwave
- Towel
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 1.5 lb Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 1 teaspoon Kosher salt
- 0.5 teaspoon Black pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon Onion powder
- 0.5 teaspoon Smoked paprika
- 0.75 cup Buffalo wing sauce
- 2 tablespoon Unsalted butter
For the Fillings
- 1.5 cups Shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack or pepper Jack cheese
- 4 oz Cream cheese
- 0.5 cup Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
- 0.25 cup Finely chopped green onions (scallions)
- 0.25 cup Finely chopped fresh cilantro optional
- 1 small jalapeño finely minced
For the Burritos
- 4 large flour tortillas (10-inch)
- 1.5 cups Cooked rice white, brown, or cilantro-lime
- 1 cup Canned black beans
- 1 cup Corn kernels
- 1 cup Shredded lettuce or finely shredded green cabbage
- 1 small red onion thinly sliced
- 1 large tomato diced
For Serving
- extra buffalo sauce for drizzling
- extra ranch or blue cheese dressing
- extra shredded cheese for finishing
- 4 wedge lime for garnish
- extra chopped cilantro and green onions for garnish
Instructions
Step-by-Step Instructions for Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos
- Start by patting the chicken dry, then cut it into small pieces. Toss with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 7–9 minutes. Add buffalo sauce and butter, stirring until melted. Simmer for 2–3 minutes, then set aside.
- In a bowl, combine cheddar cheese and Monterey Jack cheese. Add cream cheese, sour cream, green onions, cilantro, and jalapeño if using. Fold in the buffalo chicken mixture until creamy and combined.
- Warm the rice and season with salt and lime juice if desired. Rinse and drain black beans and corn. Prepare the toppings: shred lettuce, slice red onion, and dice tomato.
- Warm the tortillas in a skillet for 15–20 seconds on each side. Stack in a towel to keep warm.
- Lay a tortilla flat, add rice, buffalo chicken filling, black beans, corn, lettuce, red onion, and tomato. Optionally, add extra cheese and dressing.
- Wrap the burrito by folding the sides, then rolling tightly. Place seam-side down on a plate and repeat with remaining ingredients.
- Optionally, crisp the burritos by cooking seam-side down in a skillet with oil for 2–3 minutes until golden brown. Let rest before slicing.
- Slice the burritos in half diagonally, serve with buffalo sauce, ranch or blue cheese dressing, lime wedges, and extra cilantro and green onions.
