There's nothing quite like biting into a warm, flavorful Taco Bell-style chicken burrito. The perfect combination of tender chicken, zesty rice, and creamy sauces wrapped in a soft tortilla makes this a go-to comfort food. It's an ideal dish for quick lunches, weeknight dinners, or even satisfying a late-night craving.

I first attempted to recreate this recipe at home after a busy week when I craved something indulgent yet simple. What started as an experiment turned into a family favorite, loved for its balance of bold flavors and easy preparation. Let's dive into how you can make this irresistible burrito right in your kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Get ready to discover your new favorite homemade burrito. This Taco Bell-inspired chicken burrito combines classic Tex-Mex flavors with easy-to-find ingredients for a dish that's as delicious as it is convenient.

First off, it's incredibly simple and quick to prepare. With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a batch for the whole family in no time, even on the busiest of nights.

You'll also love how customizable this recipe is. Prefer it spicier? Add jalapeños or extra hot sauce. Looking for a vegetarian option? Swap the chicken for black beans or grilled veggies.

And let’s not forget about the budget-friendly appeal. By making this at home, you get the same satisfying flavors for a fraction of the price, perfect for feeding a crowd without breaking the bank.

Best of all, it's a recipe that brings the whole family together. Everyone can assemble their burritos just the way they like, making it a fun and interactive meal.

Ingredients Notes

This Taco Bell chicken burrito recipe uses a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.

Flour Tortillas: These are the foundation of your burrito, so go for large, soft tortillas that can hold all the fillings without tearing. Warming them slightly makes them easier to fold and gives a softer texture.

Chicken: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best here. Dice them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. Season with taco seasoning for that signature flavor.

Rice: Cooked white or Spanish rice forms the hearty base of this burrito. Adding a squeeze of lime and some chopped cilantro gives it a zesty kick.

Cheese: Shredded cheddar or a Mexican blend cheese melts beautifully, adding richness to every bite.

Sauces: The magic lies in the combination of creamy sour cream, tangy chipotle sauce, and savory red sauce. These replicate Taco Bell's signature flavors.

Optional Add-ins: Feel free to include extras like black beans, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, or sliced jalapeños to customize your burrito.

No special equipment is required for this recipe, though a large skillet and a microwave for warming tortillas are helpful.

How To Make This Taco Bell Chicken Burrito

Making these burritos at home is much easier than you'd think. Follow these steps to achieve that signature Taco Bell taste.

Start by preparing the chicken. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add a drizzle of oil. Season the chicken pieces with taco seasoning, then cook them until golden and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set it aside.

While the chicken cooks, prepare the rice. Cook it according to package instructions if you haven't already. Stir in lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt for extra flavor.

Warm the tortillas. Place them in the microwave for 15-20 seconds, or heat them in a dry skillet for a few seconds on each side. This makes them pliable and easier to fold.

Assemble the burritos by layering the ingredients in the center of each tortilla. Start with a scoop of rice, followed by chicken, shredded cheese, and your sauces – a dollop of sour cream, a drizzle of chipotle sauce, and a spoonful of red sauce. Add any extras like beans or jalapeños at this stage.

Fold the burritos by tucking in the sides, then rolling them tightly from one end to the other. If desired, you can lightly toast the burritos in a skillet for a crispier exterior.

Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, cheesy, flavorful goodness of your homemade Taco Bell chicken burritos.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, storing them properly ensures they stay fresh and delicious. Wrap each burrito individually in foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

To freeze, wrap the burritos in parchment paper, then place them in a freezer-safe bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply microwave them for 2-3 minutes, or bake them at 350°F for 15 minutes until heated through.

Avoid assembling burritos with fresh ingredients like lettuce if you plan to store them, as these can wilt or become soggy.

Variations and Substitutions

This recipe is incredibly versatile, so feel free to experiment with different ingredients to suit your preferences.

For a vegetarian option, replace the chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms, roasted veggies, or extra beans.

If you’re craving more spice, add diced green chiles or a splash of hot sauce to the filling. A sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the chicken seasoning also works well.

Want a heartier burrito? Add cooked black beans, pinto beans, or even refried beans for extra protein and texture.

For a lower-carb alternative, use a large lettuce wrap instead of a tortilla or try a low-carb tortilla option.

And don’t forget to customize the toppings! Salsa, guacamole, or pickled onions make excellent additions.

Now that you know how to make this delicious Taco Bell chicken burrito, why not give it a try? It’s the perfect way to bring a bit of fast-food magic into your home – with a homemade twist!