If you are on the lookout for a vibrant, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug in every bite, the Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe is your new best friend. This delightful combination of tender chicken strips, sautéed colorful bell peppers, and onions wrapped inside a soft flour tortilla delivers a mouthwatering experience that balances spice, zest, and comforting heartiness. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or prepping for a casual get-together, this recipe brings Tex-Mex charm straight to your kitchen table with minimal fuss but maximum flavor.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe lies in its simple yet essential ingredients. Each component plays a vital role—juicy chicken provides the hearty protein base, the bell peppers and onions add brightness and crunch, and spices bring that irresistible Southwest kick. Fresh lime juice ties everything together, enhancing all the natural flavors with a refreshing zing.
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips): Choose fresh chicken to ensure juicy, tender strips for that perfect fajita texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: A heart-healthy fat that helps caramelize the chicken and veggies beautifully.
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced): Adds vibrant color and sweet, crisp flavor to the burrito.
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced): Brings a slightly bitter contrast that balances the sweetness of red and yellow peppers.
- 1 yellow onion (sliced): Provides a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: The essential spice for that signature fajita warmth.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds an earthy, smoky note that elevates the dish.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a gentle smoky flavor and beautiful reddish hue.
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory profile without overpowering.
- 1/4 teaspoon salt: Balances and enhances all the other seasonings naturally.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper: A subtle kick of heat to round out the flavors.
- Juice of 1 lime: Adds a bright citrus punch that lifts the entire mixture.
- 1 cup cooked rice: A comforting, fluffy layer to bulk up the burrito.
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese: Melts perfectly and adds richness and creaminess.
- 1/2 cup sour cream: Provides tanginess to balance the spices and keep each bite luscious.
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo: Brings fresh, juicy acidity and texture.
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size): Soft, warm, and pliable for wrapping all the delicious fillings.
How to Make Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe
Step 1: Cook and Season the Chicken
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips, then sprinkle in chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let the chicken cook for about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s cooked through and a lovely golden brown. This careful seasoning gives the chicken that crave-worthy, authentic fajita flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Bell Peppers and Onion
Using the same skillet, pour in the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Toss in the sliced bell peppers and onion, then cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they’re tender and slightly charred at the edges. This step unlocks the sweetness and adds a delightful smoky undertone that pairs perfectly with the seasoned chicken strips.
Step 3: Combine Chicken with Veggies and Lime
Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the sautéed veggies. Squeeze in the fresh lime juice, then toss everything together for a few minutes to meld the flavors. This final touch of citrus brightens the entire mixture, making your Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe burst with freshness and tang.
Step 4: Warm and Prepare the Tortillas
Gently warm the flour tortillas just enough so they become soft and pliable. You can do this by microwaving them for a few seconds or heating them briefly in a dry skillet. Warm tortillas make rolling easier and prevent cracking or tearing when you assemble your burritos.
Step 5: Assemble Your Burritos
Lay each tortilla flat and build your burrito by layering cooked rice first, then the chicken fajita mixture, followed by shredded cheese, a dollop of sour cream, and finally salsa or pico de gallo. Fold in the sides and roll tightly to secure all the delicious filling inside. If you like a little extra crispiness, pop your burritos into a hot skillet for a minute or two on each side before serving.
How to Serve Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh garnishes can turn a great burrito into an unforgettable one. Sprinkle chopped cilantro, diced avocado or guacamole, and a wedge of lime on the side for that extra pop of color and flavor. A few jalapeño slices add a nice kick if you’re a heat lover.
Side Dishes
Complement your Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe with classic sides like Mexican street corn, tortilla chips with guacamole and salsa, or a fresh side salad with a zesty lime vinaigrette. These sides provide contrasting textures and flavors that round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, slice your burritos in half and stand them upright on a colorful platter. You can also serve deconstructed fajita bowls for a low-carb option, keeping all the elements separate but equally delicious. Another idea is to grill the burritos on a panini press to create a warm, crunchy exterior that contrasts beautifully with the soft filling inside.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Wrap leftover burritos tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps everything fresh and prevents the tortilla from drying out, making your next meal just as tasty as the first.
Freezing
Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe freezes wonderfully. Wrap each burrito securely in foil and place them in an airtight freezer bag. Freeze for up to 2 months. This makes for a perfect make-ahead meal when you want something quick and satisfying.
Reheating
To reheat, remove the foil if you’ve frozen the burrito and wrap it in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 1 to 2 minutes or heat in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Toasting on a skillet after reheating crisps up the tortilla and revives the flavors beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breast for this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs bring a bit more juiciness and flavor. Just slice them thinly and cook until they’re fully cooked and browned, similar to the breast method.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap out the flour tortillas for corn tortillas that are labeled gluten-free or use gluten-free wraps. The filling itself is naturally gluten-free.
Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time for meal prep?
Definitely! Cook and assemble your burritos in advance, then wrap them tightly and refrigerate or freeze. They reheat beautifully, making them perfect for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
What can I add to make this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe more filling?
Adding black beans, rice as suggested, or even some cooked quinoa can boost the fiber and protein content while adding texture and heartiness to your burrito.
How spicy is this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe?
The recipe has a moderate spice level thanks to chili powder and black pepper. You can adjust by increasing spices or adding fresh jalapeños for more heat or reducing them for a milder flavor.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe, it will undoubtedly become a cherished staple in your recipe collection. It’s the perfect combination of ease, flavor, and comfort that everyone can enjoy any night of the week. So grab those tortillas, fire up your skillet, and get ready to roll out some truly tasty burritos that bring a little fiesta to your dinner table.
Print
Chicken Fajita Burrito Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Chicken Fajita Burrito recipe combines tender, spiced chicken strips with sautéed bell peppers and onions, wrapped in a warm flour tortilla with rice, cheese, sour cream, and salsa. It’s a quick and flavorful Tex-Mex meal perfect for dinner or meal prep.
Ingredients
Protein and Vegetables
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts (sliced into thin strips)
- 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 green bell pepper (sliced)
- 1 yellow onion (sliced)
Spices and Oils
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lime
Fillings and Extras
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 cup salsa or pico de gallo
- 4 large flour tortillas (burrito size)
Instructions
- Season and cook chicken: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and season evenly with chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Cook the chicken for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully cooked through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.
- Sauté vegetables: In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the sliced red and green bell peppers and the onion. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred around the edges.
- Combine chicken and veggies: Return the cooked chicken to the skillet with the peppers and onion. Squeeze the juice of one lime over the mixture and toss everything together to blend the flavors.
- Warm tortillas: Warm the flour tortillas slightly to make them more pliable and easier to roll. This can be done in a microwave or on a dry skillet over low heat.
- Assemble burritos: Lay each tortilla flat. Layer down the center a quarter cup of cooked rice, then a generous portion of the chicken fajita mixture, followed by shredded cheese, sour cream, and salsa or pico de gallo.
- Roll burritos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla and roll it tightly from the bottom up to form a burrito. Serve warm immediately, or for a crispy finish, toast the burrito in a skillet over medium heat for 1–2 minutes per side.
Notes
- Add guacamole or black beans for extra flavor and texture.
- To make ahead, wrap burritos tightly in foil and reheat in the oven or on a skillet.
- Use Mexican blend cheese for a more authentic flavor.
- Serve with extra lime wedges for added freshness.
