Introduction

Chicken burritos are a go-to meal for many, thanks to their versatility, deliciousness, and ease of preparation. Whether you’re making a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, knowing how to cook chicken for burritos can elevate your homemade burritos to restaurant-quality status. In this guide, we’ll take you through every step, from selecting the right chicken cut to cooking it to perfection.

Step 1: Choosing the Right Chicken

When it comes to making the perfect chicken for burritos, the type of chicken you use matters. Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a popular choice because they cook quickly and shred easily. Chicken thighs, on the other hand, offer a richer flavor due to their higher fat content, making them an excellent option for those who prefer a juicier burrito filling.

  • Chicken Breasts: Lean, mild in flavor, and easy to cook, making them ideal for a lighter burrito filling.
  • Chicken Thighs: Richer and more flavorful, perfect if you want a more savory filling.

Step 2: Marinating the Chicken

Marinating is key to infusing the chicken with flavor. A well-balanced marinade will ensure that your chicken is juicy and packed with taste. Here’s a simple yet effective marinade recipe that you can use.

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

  1. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add the chicken to the bowl, ensuring each piece is well-coated with the marinade.
  3. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more intense flavor.

Step 3: Cooking the Chicken

Once your chicken has marinated, it’s time to cook it. You can either grill, bake, or pan-sear the chicken, depending on your preference and available equipment.

Grilling:

  • Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  • Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing or shredding.

Baking:

  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Place the marinated chicken on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
  • Let the chicken rest before slicing or shredding.

Pan-Searing:

  • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  • Add the marinated chicken to the skillet and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
  • Let the chicken rest before slicing or shredding.

Step 4: Shredding or Slicing the Chicken

For burritos, shredded chicken is typically the most popular option as it mixes well with other ingredients. However, thinly sliced chicken can also be used if you prefer a chunkier filling.

Shredding:

  • Place the cooked chicken on a cutting board.
  • Use two forks to pull the chicken apart into shreds.
  • Ensure the chicken is shredded evenly for consistent texture in your burritos.

Slicing:

  • Use a sharp knife to cut the chicken into thin slices.
  • Make sure the slices are uniform to ensure even distribution in the burrito.

Step 5: Assembling Your Burrito

Now that your chicken is ready, it’s time to assemble your burrito. Lay out a warm tortilla and start layering your ingredients.

Ingredients:

  • Cooked and shredded or sliced chicken
  • Rice
  • Beans (black or pinto)
  • Cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or queso fresco)
  • Salsa or pico de gallo
  • Guacamole
  • Sour cream
  • Lettuce
  • Cilantro

Instructions:

  1. Lay a tortilla flat on a clean surface.
  2. Add a generous layer of shredded or sliced chicken in the center.
  3. Layer on rice, beans, cheese, salsa, guacamole, and any other desired toppings.
  4. Fold the sides of the tortilla inward, then roll it up from the bottom to the top.
  5. Slice the burrito in half and serve.

Conclusion

Cooking chicken for burritos doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right cut of chicken, a flavorful marinade, and the perfect cooking method, you can create a burrito filling that’s delicious and satisfying. Whether you prefer shredded chicken or slices, this guide has everything you need to make your burritos a hit.