Easy Spicy Chicken Burrito Recipe

This easy spicy chicken burrito recipe is a flavor-packed, satisfying meal that comes together in no time. Loaded with juicy chicken, rice, beans, cheese, and a fiery kick of spice, it’s perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. Wrapped in a warm tortilla and ready to grab-and-go, it’s everything you love in a burrito—bold, filling, and totally customizable.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

You’ll love this spicy chicken burrito for its deliciously bold flavors, simple ingredients, and how quickly it comes together. It’s a one-pan wonder for the filling, making cleanup a breeze, and it’s easy to adapt with your favorite toppings. Whether you like it extra hot or just a little spicy, you control the heat level. Great for busy weeknights, leftovers, or prepping ahead for the week.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs (cut into strips or cubes)
• Olive oil
• Garlic (minced)
• Onion (chopped)
• Chili powder
• Cumin
• Paprika
• Cayenne pepper or hot sauce (for extra heat)
• Salt and pepper
• Cooked rice (white, brown, or cilantro-lime)
• Black beans or pinto beans (rinsed and drained)
• Shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
• Tortilla wraps (large burrito-size)
• Optional: sour cream, salsa, guacamole, jalapeños, lettuce, tomatoes, hot sauce

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and chicken. Season with chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook until chicken is browned and cooked through, about 710 minutes.
4. Stir in a splash of hot sauce if desired. Remove from heat.
5. Warm tortillas on a skillet or microwave.
6. Assemble burritos: layer rice, beans, chicken, cheese, and any optional toppings in the center of each tortilla.
7. Fold in the sides, roll up tightly, and toast in a skillet seam-side down for 12 minutes until golden (optional).
8. Slice in half and serve warm.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 large burritos.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Variations

• Extra spicy: Add chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or extra cayenne for a smoky kick.
• Mild version: Reduce cayenne or use mild salsa for a gentler spice level.
• Low-carb: Serve the spicy chicken mixture over lettuce or in a low-carb wrap.
• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for sautéed bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms.
• Breakfast burrito: Add scrambled eggs and breakfast potatoes to the mix.

storage/reheating

Wrap leftover burritos individually in foil or plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven at 350°F (175°C) for 1015 minutes or in the microwave (unwrap first) for 12 minutes. For freezer storage, wrap tightly in foil and freeze up to 2 months. Thaw overnight or microwave from frozen, then toast for best texture.

FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs work best. Thighs are juicier and more flavorful.

Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes! Shred it and warm it with the spices for an easy shortcut.

How spicy is this burrito?

It’s medium spicy, but you can adjust the heat with cayenne pepper, hot sauce, or spicy salsa.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the burritos and store them in the fridge or freezer until ready to heat and eat.

What cheese works best?

Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend melts well and adds great flavor.

Can I add vegetables?

Absolutely—bell peppers, corn, zucchini, or spinach all work well in the filling.

What’s the best way to wrap a burrito?

Fold in the sides first, then roll tightly from the bottom up. Toast seam-side down to seal.

Are these good for meal prep?

Yes, they reheat beautifully and can be frozen for future meals.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Skip the cheese and sour cream, or use dairy-free alternatives.

What side dishes go with burritos?

Try tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole, Mexican street corn, or a fresh salad.

Conclusion

This easy spicy chicken burrito recipe checks all the boxes: fast, flavorful, filling, and endlessly adaptable. With tender chicken, bold spices, and your favorite burrito fixings, it’s a meal you’ll come back to again and again. Perfect for busy weeknights, lunches on the go, or whenever you’re craving something spicy and satisfying.

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