These Green Chile Chicken Smothered Burritos are everything you want in a comforting, cheesy Mexican meal. The combination of shredded chicken, diced green chiles, and a rich, creamy sauce wrapped in a soft flour tortilla is simply irresistible. Topped with melted Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese, this dish is baked to perfection, making every bite a cheesy, flavorful delight. Perfect for weeknight dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prep, these burritos bring bold Tex-Mex flavors to your table with minimal effort. Serve them with a side of Mexican rice, refried beans, or a crisp salad for a complete meal. Whether you’re a burrito lover or just looking for a satisfying, easy-to-make dinner, this recipe is sure to be a hit!
Full recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup green enchilada sauce
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup diced green chiles
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Directions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine shredded chicken, green enchilada sauce, sour cream, diced green chiles, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Place a generous scoop of the chicken mixture in the center of each tortilla, sprinkle with Monterey Jack cheese, and roll tightly.
- Arrange the burritos seam-side down in the prepared baking dish. Brush tops lightly with olive oil.
- Sprinkle the remaining Monterey Jack and cheddar cheese over the burritos.
- Bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven, garnish with chopped cilantro, and serve hot.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 25 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 430 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Green Chile Chicken Smothered Burritos – A Flavorful Tex-Mex Delight
Green Chile Chicken Smothered Burritos are the perfect blend of bold flavors, creamy textures, and hearty ingredients. This dish takes a classic burrito and elevates it with a rich, cheesy green chile sauce that smothers every bite in deliciousness. Whether you’re a fan of Mexican cuisine or just looking for a comforting and satisfying meal, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household.
The History Behind Smothered Burritos
Burritos, meaning “little donkeys” in Spanish, originated in Mexican cuisine but gained widespread popularity in the United States, especially in the Southwest. The concept of a smothered burrito, also known as a “wet burrito,” is believed to have started in Tex-Mex restaurants in the mid-20th century. Unlike traditional handheld burritos, smothered burritos are covered in a flavorful sauce, making them a fork-and-knife dish rather than something eaten on the go. The addition of green chiles is a signature feature of Southwestern cooking, particularly in New Mexico, where Hatch green chiles are celebrated for their smoky and slightly spicy flavor. By incorporating these into a creamy sauce and pairing them with tender shredded chicken, this dish embodies the essence of comfort food with a spicy kick.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Bold & Authentic Flavor – The combination of green chiles, garlic, cumin, and Monterey Jack cheese creates a well-balanced flavor with a touch of heat and creamy richness.
- Hearty & Satisfying – With protein-packed shredded chicken, melted cheese, and soft flour tortillas, this dish is incredibly filling and perfect for dinner.
- Easy to Make – Unlike complicated Mexican recipes that require multiple steps, this one is simple and can be made in under an hour.
- Great for Meal Prep – These burritos can be made ahead of time, frozen, and reheated for a quick and delicious meal any day of the week.
- Customizable – You can easily adjust the spice level, swap out ingredients, or add toppings to suit your preferences.
Key Ingredients and Their Benefits
- Green Chiles: These mild, smoky peppers add flavor without overwhelming heat. They are also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.
- Shredded Chicken: A great source of lean protein, making this dish both filling and nutritious.
- Cheese (Monterey Jack & Cheddar): Provides a creamy, melty texture and enhances the overall flavor. Monterey Jack is known for its mild taste, while cheddar adds a slight sharpness.
- Flour Tortillas: Soft and pliable, these hold the filling together and absorb the rich sauce beautifully.
- Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that balances the rich, cheesy flavors.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making the Best Green Chile Chicken Smothered Burritos
1. Preparing the Chicken Filling
The key to delicious smothered burritos is a well-seasoned filling. Shredded chicken is tossed with green enchilada sauce, sour cream, diced green chiles, cumin, and garlic powder to infuse it with bold Mexican flavors.
2. Assembling the Burritos
Each flour tortilla is filled with a generous portion of the chicken mixture, topped with shredded Monterey Jack cheese, and tightly rolled to keep everything intact.
3. Smothering in Green Chile Sauce
Unlike dry burritos, these are placed in a baking dish and covered with a rich green chile sauce before being sprinkled with extra cheese. This step is what makes them “smothered” and adds that signature Tex-Mex flair.
4. Baking to Perfection
Baking at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes allows the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a bubbly and golden topping.
5. Garnishing and Serving
Once out of the oven, a sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a pop of color and brightness. Serve with Mexican rice, guacamole, or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Customization Ideas – Make It Your Own!
- Make it Spicier: Add diced jalapeños or use hot green chiles instead of mild ones.
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap out the chicken for black beans, sautéed mushrooms, or roasted sweet potatoes.
- Make it Healthier: Use whole wheat tortillas and swap sour cream for Greek yogurt.
- Add Extra Protein: Toss in some cooked shrimp or ground beef for variety.
Best Side Dishes to Serve with Green Chile Chicken Burritos
To make this meal even more satisfying, here are some side dishes that pair perfectly:
- Mexican Rice – A classic, flavorful side that complements the green chile sauce.
- Refried Beans – Adds creaminess and extra protein.
- Guacamole & Chips – A fresh and creamy contrast to the rich burritos.
- Mexican Corn Salad (Esquites) – A tangy, cheesy, and slightly spicy side.
- Cilantro Lime Slaw – A refreshing, crunchy element to balance the dish.
Tips for Storing and Reheating
These burritos store incredibly well, making them perfect for meal prep.
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Wrap each burrito individually in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheating: Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Conclusion
Green Chile Chicken Smothered Burritos are the ultimate comfort food. They bring together the best of Tex-Mex flavors in a cheesy, saucy, and satisfying dish. Whether you’re hosting a dinner, making a cozy meal for the family, or prepping for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavor with minimal effort. Give these smothered burritos a try and enjoy a taste of authentic Mexican-American cuisine right at home!