Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe
If you’re craving a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in one pan, look no further than this Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet. It’s the ultimate weeknight hero: a vibrant medley of tender chicken, creamy melted cheese, wholesome rice, and all your favorite Tex-Mex flavors—ready in about 40 minutes. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or want to meal prep something satisfying, this hearty skillet never disappoints. The best part? You get all the bold taste of a burrito without ever turning on the oven or rolling a single tortilla!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet plays an essential role, bringing color, texture, and loads of flavor to the table. With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh favorites, you can create a dish that tastes like it simmered all day—no fuss required.
- Chicken breast: Use cooked and shredded or chopped chicken for a tender, protein-packed base that soaks up all the seasonings.
- Uncooked long-grain white rice: This is the hearty backbone of the skillet, absorbing flavors as it cooks.
- Chicken broth: Adds depth and moisture, ensuring your rice is fluffy and savory all the way through.
- Black beans: Drained and rinsed, they bring creamy texture, fiber, and a pop of color.
- Corn kernels: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn adds sweetness and a juicy crunch in every bite.
- Salsa: Your favorite jarred salsa brings tang, acidity, and a customizable level of heat.
- Chili powder: Delivers just the right amount of smoky spice.
- Cumin: Adds that unmistakable earthy, warm undertone that defines Tex-Mex cuisine.
- Garlic powder: An easy way to infuse savory depth without chopping cloves.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Shredded cheddar cheese: Melts into a gooey, golden blanket that makes every forkful irresistible.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): For a burst of fresh, herbal brightness at the finish.
How to Make Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet
Step 1: Start the Rice and Broth
Grab your largest, deepest skillet and pour in the uncooked long-grain white rice along with the chicken broth. Bring it to a boil over medium heat—watch for those first happy bubbles—then immediately reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and let it simmer away for about 15 minutes. This step is crucial for perfectly tender, flavorful rice, as it absorbs all the savory goodness from the broth.
Step 2: Add Beans, Corn, Salsa, and Spices
Once the rice has had its initial simmer, lift the lid and stir in the black beans, corn kernels, and salsa. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. This is where the Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet really starts to look and smell amazing—everything becomes vibrant, and the flavors begin to mingle in the pan.
Step 3: Stir in the Chicken
Now it’s time to add your cooked, shredded or chopped chicken breast. Give everything a thorough stir so the chicken is evenly distributed and gets a chance to soak up those zesty, spiced juices. Return the lid and continue cooking for another 5 to 10 minutes, until the rice is fully tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 4: Add the Cheddar Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese generously over the top of your bubbling skillet. Cover again and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes more—just long enough for the cheese to melt into a dreamy, gooey layer that holds everything together. This cheesy topping is what transforms the skillet from simple to spectacular.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
When the cheese is perfectly melted, remove the skillet from the heat. If you love a touch of freshness, shower the top with chopped cilantro. Serve the Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet hot, right from the pan, and get ready to dig in!
How to Serve Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet
Garnishes
A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro adds a bright, herbal finish that wakes up all the flavors. If you want to take things up a notch, try a dollop of sour cream, slices of ripe avocado, or a few pickled jalapeños on top. These garnishes don’t just look pretty—they add coolness, creaminess, or a pop of heat that makes each bite of Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet even more exciting.
Side Dishes
This skillet is hearty enough to stand alone, but it also pairs beautifully with a side of tortilla chips for scooping, a simple green salad tossed in lime vinaigrette, or some sautéed peppers and onions. For a bigger spread, serve alongside classic Mexican rice, refried beans, or a refreshing corn and tomato salad.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, scoop the Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet into warm tortillas to make burritos or tacos. You can also spoon it over a bed of lettuce for an instant burrito bowl, or layer it inside bell peppers before baking for a colorful, crowd-pleasing entrée. However you serve it, this skillet is as versatile as it is delicious!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet is a lifesaver for busy days. Simply transfer any cooled leftovers to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen as it sits, making for even tastier lunches and dinners.
Freezing
To freeze, let the skillet cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe bags or containers. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze without the cheese and add it fresh when reheating. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat single portions in the microwave, covered, until piping hot—usually about 2 minutes, stirring halfway through. For larger amounts, warm gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth if it needs moisture. Top with a fresh layer of cheese before serving for that just-melted magic.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut for this recipe—just shred or chop it and add as directed. The smoky, seasoned flavor of rotisserie chicken adds a lovely dimension to the dish.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply leave out the chicken and increase the beans and corn, or add sautéed bell peppers and onions for extra heartiness. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a delicious vegetarian version of Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet.
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?
You can use brown rice, but keep in mind it takes longer to cook and may need a bit more broth. Adjust the simmering time and check for tenderness before moving on to the next steps.
How can I make the skillet spicier?
For a spicier Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet, choose a hot salsa, add a chopped jalapeño or serrano pepper to the mix, or sprinkle in extra chili powder or cayenne. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side for those who like an extra kick!
What type Main Course
While sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds classic flavor, you can also use Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. Each brings its own twist to the gooey, melty top layer.
Final Thoughts
If you love bold flavors, minimal cleanup, and a dinner that brings everyone running to the table, you can’t go wrong with this Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet. It’s comfort food at its finest and easiest, and I can’t wait for you to take your first cheesy, satisfying bite!
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Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cheesy Chicken Burrito Skillet is a delicious and easy one-pan meal combining tender chicken, flavorful rice, black beans, corn, and melted cheddar cheese seasoned with classic Mexican spices. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a perfect hearty dinner that’s both satisfying and quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
Protein and Grains
- 1 lb cooked chicken breast, shredded or chopped
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
Vegetables and Legumes
- 1 (15 oz) can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 cup salsa
Liquids and Broth
- 2 cups chicken broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Garnish
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Rice: In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the uncooked long-grain white rice with 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer gently for 15 minutes until the rice absorbs most of the liquid.
- Add Beans, Corn, and Spices: After the initial cooking, stir in the drained black beans, corn kernels, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This combination infuses the dish with vibrant Mexican flavors.
- Combine Chicken: Add the shredded or chopped cooked chicken breast to the skillet and stir well to incorporate all ingredients evenly. Cover again and cook for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, allowing the rice to become tender and the mixture to heat through.
- Melt the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle 1 1/2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the skillet mixture. Cover and cook for 2 to 3 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully, creating a gooey, cheesy topping.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Optionally, garnish with 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute brown rice for white rice, but adjust the cooking time and liquid quantity accordingly.
- For an extra kick of heat, add a chopped jalapeño or use a spicy salsa variety.
- Serve alongside tortilla chips, sour cream, or sliced avocado to complement the dish.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4 g
- Sodium: 780 mg
- Fat: 18 g
- Saturated Fat: 9 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 7 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 45 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 90 mg
