Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

Introduction

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are a deliciously hearty and flavorful twist on traditional burritos, packed with a variety of textures and bold flavors. These burritos start with layers of seasoned chicken, adding savory depth to each bite. Then, they’re filled with a colorful mix of beans, creamy cheese, and fresh, crunchy veggies like lettuce, tomatoes, and onions, all wrapped up in a soft flour tortilla. Each layer combines to create the perfect balance of comfort and freshness.

The combination of tender chicken, hearty beans, and gooey cheese makes these burritos satisfying and filling, while the fresh veggies add a burst of flavor and crunch. The layers come together to form a deliciously cohesive bite, with just the right amount of seasoning and spice. Whether served with a side of guacamole or salsa, these burritos are perfect for any occasion, from a family dinner to a party spread.

Whether you’re craving a comforting meal or prepping for the week ahead, Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are an easy and crowd-pleasing option. Full of flavor, filling, and customizable, these burritos will quickly become a favorite go-to for both casual meals and special gatherings.

Perfect for:

Family dinners
Meal prep
Taco night
A flavorful and filling lunch

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why you’ll love Seven Layer Chicken Burritos:

Delicious Layers: From the perfectly seasoned chicken to the creamy guacamole and salsa, each layer brings something unique and tasty.
Customizable: You can modify the layers to suit your preferences or dietary needs.
Easy to Make: With a quick assembly process, this recipe can be made in under 30 minutes.
Packed with Protein & Veggies: The chicken, beans, and fresh veggies make these burritos a nutritious and filling meal.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Total Time: 30 minutes
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: Approximately 500-550 calories
Key Nutrients: Protein, fiber, vitamin A, calcium

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp lime juice
1/2 cup chicken broth (or water)

For the Layers:

4 large flour tortillas
1 cup refried beans (or black beans for a lighter version)
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup shredded lettuce
1 medium tomato, diced
1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
1/2 cup guacamole
1/4 cup salsa (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
Fresh cilantro (for garnish, optional)

Ingredient Highlights

Chicken: Juicy and flavorful chicken seasoned with bold spices is the foundation of these burritos.
Beans: Refried beans or black beans add creaminess and fiber to the burrito layers.
Veggies: Fresh lettuce, tomato, and cilantro add a burst of freshness and texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Chicken:

Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix garlic powder, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub the spice mixture evenly over the chicken breasts or thighs.
Cook the Chicken:
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Remove from heat, let it rest for 5 minutes, and then shred the chicken using two forks.
Add Lime & Broth:
After shredding, return the chicken to the skillet and add lime juice and chicken broth. Toss the chicken to combine and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to absorb the flavors.

Assemble the Burritos:

Prepare the Tortillas:
Warm the flour tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave for a few seconds until soft and pliable.
Layer the Ingredients:
On each tortilla, start by spreading a layer of refried beans (or black beans). Follow with a generous portion of the shredded chicken, then add the shredded cheese, lettuce, and diced tomatoes. Top with a dollop of sour cream (or Greek yogurt), guacamole, and salsa.
Wrap the Burritos:
Carefully fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll it up from the bottom to enclose the fillings. Repeat with the remaining tortillas.
Optional Step – Toast the Burritos:
If you’d like crispy burritos, heat a skillet over medium heat and place the wrapped burritos seam side down. Toast for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden and crispy.

Serve and Enjoy:

Serve your Seven Layer Chicken Burritos with extra salsa, guacamole, or a side of Mexican rice for a complete meal.

How to Serve

The Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are great served with:

A side of Mexican rice or Spanish rice
A simple green salad with lime vinaigrette
Chips and salsa or guacamole for dipping
A refreshing drink like a limeade or a cold beer

Additional Tips

Use Grilled Chicken: For extra flavor, grill your chicken before using it in the burritos. The smoky taste will elevate the overall dish.
Warm the Tortillas: Heat your flour tortillas on a skillet for a few seconds to make them more pliable and prevent cracking when wrapping.
Layer Strategically: Start with the beans or rice at the bottom to prevent sogginess from the wetter ingredients like salsa or sour cream.
Use Fresh Cilantro: Add a sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
Make Your Own Guacamole: Homemade guacamole adds a fresh, creamy element to the burritos. Simply mash avocado with lime juice, salt, and diced tomato.
Add a Spice Kick: If you like heat, add sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce between the layers for an extra kick.
Customize Your Cheese: Mix different cheeses like cheddar, Monterey Jack, or pepper jack for a unique flavor combination.
Include Corn: Sweet corn adds a nice crunch and sweetness, balancing out the spiciness of the burrito.
Chill Before Cutting: After wrapping the burritos, chill them in the fridge for 10-15 minutes. This helps them hold together better when you cut them into halves or serve them.
Serve with a Side: Pair your burritos with a side of Mexican rice or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Variations

Spicy Chipotle Chicken Burritos: Use chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to season the chicken. Add a smoky, spicy kick to the burritos with jalapeños, spicy salsa, and a drizzle of chipotle crema.
BBQ Chicken Burritos: Swap out the traditional seasoning for BBQ sauce-coated chicken. Layer in corn, cilantro, and pickled red onions for a tangy, smoky flavor.
Cilantro-Lime Chicken Burritos: Marinate the chicken in cilantro, lime, garlic, and olive oil for a fresh, zesty flavor. Add fresh pico de gallo, avocado, and shredded lettuce.
Mediterranean Chicken Burritos: Use grilled chicken seasoned with oregano and garlic. Layer with hummus, cucumber, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a drizzle of tzatziki sauce.
Buffalo Chicken Burritos: Toss the chicken in buffalo wing sauce. Add shredded cheese, celery, and a cooling ranch dressing or blue cheese for that classic buffalo flavor.
Vegetarian Seven Layer Burritos: Substitute the chicken with black beans, grilled peppers, and mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based version. Add layers of guacamole, sour cream, and cheese.
Mexican Street Corn Chicken Burritos: Add grilled chicken with a sprinkle of cotija cheese and chili powder. Layer with Mexican street corn (elote), avocado, and crema for a flavorful twist.
Sweet and Spicy Chicken Burritos: Combine honey or brown sugar with sriracha sauce for a sweet and spicy marinade for the chicken. Add pickled jalapeños, red onions, and shredded cabbage for crunch.
Breakfast Chicken Burritos: Use scrambled eggs along with the seasoned chicken. Add breakfast potatoes, cheese, salsa, and a touch of hot sauce for a morning twist.
Hawaiian Chicken Burritos: Marinate the chicken in a pineapple and soy sauce mixture. Add fresh pineapple chunks, coconut rice, and a bit of teriyaki sauce for a tropical vibe.

Freezing and Storage

Storage: Leftover burritos can be wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: To freeze, wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap and then foil. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat by microwaving or baking in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Special Equipment

Skillet: For cooking the chicken and optionally to toast the burritos.
Sharp Knife: For chopping the vegetables and shredding the chicken.
Microwave or Oven: To warm the tortillas or toast the burritos (if desired).

FAQ Section

Can I use a different type of cheese?
Yes, feel free to use your favorite cheese such as Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or a spicy pepper jack for a different flavor profile.
Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the burritos and store them in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven before serving.
Can I use a different type of bean?
Absolutely! Black beans, pinto beans, or even a mix of both work well in this recipe.
How can I make this a low-carb option?
You can swap the flour tortillas for low-carb tortillas or lettuce wraps for a lighter version.

Conclusion

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are a hearty, flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. With layers of tender, seasoned chicken, creamy guacamole, tangy salsa, fresh veggies, and melted cheese, these burritos deliver a satisfying combination of textures and flavors in every bite. The mix of savory, creamy, and crunchy ingredients makes each layer a treat, ensuring every bite is full of flavor.

These burritos are versatile and easy to make, whether you’re meal prepping for the week, feeding the family, or hosting a fun gathering. They’re fully customizable, so you can adjust the toppings and fillings to suit your preferences. Add a bit of heat with jalapeños or top them off with a drizzle of sour cream for an extra burst of flavor.

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, bringing together the perfect blend of comfort food and fresh ingredients. Whether for a casual meal or a special occasion, these burritos are sure to impress!