Copycat Taco Bell Chicken Burrito Recipe: Taste the Craving at Home

Taco Bell Chicken Burrito: A Home Cook’s Dream

Relive your favorite Taco Bell memories with this authentic copycat recipe. We’ll break down every step, from the seasoned chicken to the perfectly seasoned rice, ensuring you capture that signature taste in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:

• 240 g / 1 cup boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 30 g / 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• 30 g / 2 tbsp Taco Bell seasoning
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
• 1 cup shredded three-cheese blend (Cheddar, Monterey Jack, Colby)
• 4 large flour tortillas
• 240 g / 1 cup shredded lettuce
• 240 g / 1 cup diced tomatoes

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 200°C / 400°F.
2. Season the chicken with Taco Bell seasoning and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until cooked through.
3. Prepare the rice and corn according to package instructions.
4. Warm the tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble the burritos by filling each tortilla with chicken, rice, corn, cheese, lettuce, and tomatoes.

Taco Bell Chicken Burrito Recipe Card

This recipe card provides a quick reference for ingredients and instructions to make a delicious Taco Bell Chicken Burrito at home.

Ingredients:

• 500 g / 2.5 cups cooked chicken breast
• 240 g / 1 cup cooked Mexican rice
• 150 g / 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
• 120 g / 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 25 g / 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 large flour tortillas
• Shredded cheese, for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 190°C / 375°F.
2. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
3. Assemble burritos with chicken, rice, beans, tomatoes, and cilantro.
4. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the tortillas are crispy.

Gather Your Ingredients

Ready to recreate the magic of Taco Bell’s Chicken Burrito at home? Here’s everything you’ll need to get started. Feel free to swap out ingredients based on your preferences, but be sure to adjust the seasoning accordingly.

• 240 g / 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 150 g / 1 cup cooked rice
• 100 g / 3.5 oz taco seasoning
• 1/2 cup water
• 1 large burrito-sized tortilla
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1/4 cup pico de gallo
• Optional:
• 1/4 cup diced onions
• 1/4 cup chopped lettuce

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Taco Bell-Style Chicken Burrito

Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Taco Bell-style Chicken Burrito at home.

1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

   In a large bowl, combine 240 g / 1 cup of boneless, skinless chicken breast, 30 g / 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 15 g / 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 7.5 g / 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

   Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

2. Cook the Chicken Filling

   Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat (180°C / 356°F). Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.

   Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

3. Prepare the Taco Rice

   In a medium saucepan, heat 30 g / 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat (150°C / 302°F). Add 240 g / 1 cup of uncooked white rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

   Gradually add 480 ml / 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low (120°C / 248°F), cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

4. Prepare the Taco Seasoning

   Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions for Taco Bell-Style Chicken Burrito

   Follow these easy steps to create a delicious Taco Bell-style Chicken Burrito at home.

   1. Prepare the Chicken Filling

      In a large bowl, combine 240 g / 1 cup of boneless, skinless chicken breast, 30 g / 2 tablespoons of olive oil, 15 g / 1 tablespoon of lime juice, and 7.5 g / 1 teaspoon of ground cumin. Mix well to coat the chicken evenly.

      Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

   2. Cook the Chicken Filling

      Preheat a large skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat (356°F / 180°C). Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and cook for 8-10 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F / 74°C.

      Shred the cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.

   3. Prepare the Taco Rice

      In a medium saucepan, heat 30 g / 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat (302°F / 150°C). Add 240 g / 1 cup of uncooked white rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly.

      Gradually add 480 ml / 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low (248°F / 120°C), cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.

   4. Prepare the Taco Seasoning

      In a small bowl, combine 15 g / 1 tablespoon of chili powder, 7.5 g / 1 teaspoon of ground cumin, 2.5 g / 1/2 teaspoon of paprika, and 1 g / 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper (optional). Mix well to combine.

   5. Assemble the Taco Bell-Style Chicken Burrito

      Preheat a large flour tortilla in the microwave for 10-15 seconds, or until it becomes pliable. Spoon 120 g / 1/2 cup of the cooked taco rice onto the center of the tortilla, leaving a 2.5 cm / 1-inch border around the edges.

      Arrange 120 g / 1/2 cup of the shredded chicken on top of the rice, followed by 60 g / 1/4 cup of diced tomatoes, 15 g / 1/4 cup of shredded lettuce, and 15 g / 1/4 cup of shredded cheese.

      Sprinkle the prepared taco seasoning over the top of the filling and fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling. Fold in the sides and roll the burrito into a tight cylinder.

   6. Heat the Burrito

      Place the assembled burrito in the microwave for 20-30 seconds, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F. Alternatively, wrap the burrito in foil and heat it in a preheated oven at 180°C / 356°F for 5-7 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Burrito

To achieve that authentic Taco Bell taste in your chicken burrito, it’s all about balance and attention to detail. Here are some insider tips to elevate your burrito game:

• Use a combination of chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika to give your chicken a deep, smoky flavor. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of 60 ml / 1/4 cup lime juice, 15 g / 1 tablespoon olive oil, and your spice blend for at least 30 minutes.
• Don’t overfill your burrito. Leave some breathing room to ensure the flavors meld together and the tortilla doesn’t tear. Aim for a filling-to-tortilla ratio of about 2:1.
• Temperature control is crucial. Cook your chicken to an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F to ensure food safety and tender texture.
• Avoid over-accessorizing. Too many toppings can make the burrito feel cluttered and overwhelming. Stick to the essentials: chicken, beans, cheese, and a drizzle of salsa or guacamole.

Common pitfalls to watch out for include using low-quality tortillas, which can become brittle or soggy, and overcooking the chicken, leading to dryness. By following these pro tips, you’ll be well on your way to creating a Taco Bell-inspired chicken burrito that’s full of flavor and texture. Remember, it’s all about finding that perfect balance of flavors and textures to create a truly authentic experience.

Make It Your Own: Ingredient Substitutions

Craving a Taco Bell Chicken Burrito but need to tweak it to your liking? No problem! This recipe is incredibly adaptable. Swap out ingredients to suit your taste buds or dietary needs.

Protein Power

Love a good vegetarian or vegan option? Try these protein swaps:

• 240 g / 1 cup cooked black beans
• 240 g / 1 cup cooked lentils
• 240 g / 1 cup crumbled tofu, seasoned with taco seasoning

Cheese Please (or Not!)

Skip the cheese entirely or choose a dairy-free alternative:

• 120 g / 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (or your favorite!)
• 120 g / 1/2 cup dairy-free shredded cheese

Spice It Up

Adjust the heat level to your preference:

• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning (or more, to taste)
• Optional: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat

Go Beyond the Classic: Burrito Variations

Take your Taco Bell-inspired chicken burrito to the next level with these creative filling and topping ideas. From spicy to sweet, these variations will satisfy your cravings and keep your taste buds guessing.

Korean BBQ Chicken Burrito

Swap the classic seasoning for a sweet and spicy Korean-inspired blend. Add 240 g / 1 cup of Korean BBQ sauce, 1/4 cup of chopped kimchi, and 1/4 cup of toasted sesame seeds to your burrito.

Flavor change: Spicy and sweet, with a nutty sesame finish.

Time change: 5 minutes to prepare kimchi and sesame seeds.

Southwestern Chicken Burrito

Add a burst of southwestern flavor with 240 g / 1 cup of roasted corn, 1/4 cup of diced black beans, and 1/4 cup of crumbled queso fresco.

Flavor change: Smoky, earthy, and slightly sweet.

Time change: 10 minutes to roast corn and cook black beans.

Mexican Street Corn Chicken Burrito

Bring the flavors of Mexico to your burrito with 240 g / 1 cup of grilled corn, 1/4 cup of diced red onion, and 1/4 cup of crumbled cotija cheese.

Flavor change: Grilled, slightly charred, and creamy.

Time change: 5 minutes to grill corn and chop onion.

Indian-Style Chicken Burrito

Add an exotic twist to your burrito with 240 g / 1 cup of spiced chicken, 1/4 cup of diced cucumber raita, and 1/4 cup of toasted cumin seeds.

Flavor change: Warm, aromatic, and cooling.

Time change: 10 minutes to prepare raita and toast cumin seeds.

Storing Your Leftover Burritos

To maintain the freshness and flavor of your Taco-bell-chicken-burrito, proper storage is essential. Cool the burritos to room temperature within 2 hours of cooking, then refrigerate or freeze them.

Refrigeration

Store leftover burritos in airtight containers at a temperature of 4°C / 39°F or below. Consume within 3 to 4 days. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent moisture and other flavors from affecting the burritos.

Freezing

• Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label and date the container, and store at a temperature of -18°C / 0°F or below.
• When ready to eat, thaw frozen burritos overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat to an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.

By following these storage tips, you can enjoy your Taco-bell-chicken-burrito for a longer period while maintaining its flavor and texture.

Common Burrito Problems and Solutions

Making the perfect Taco Bell-inspired chicken burrito at home can be a breeze, but sometimes things don’t go quite as planned. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

1. Dry Chicken

   If your chicken seems dry, try brining it for 30 minutes in a mixture of 1 tablespoon salt and 1 cup water before cooking. You can also add a splash of chicken broth or water to the pan while it simmers.

2. Bland Rice

   Boost the flavor of your rice by using chicken broth instead of water while cooking. You can also stir in a tablespoon of taco seasoning or cumin for an extra kick.

3. Soggy Burritos

   To avoid soggy burritos, make sure your tortillas are warmed before filling. You can heat them in a dry skillet, microwave, or even over an open flame. Also, don’t overfill your burritos, as this can lead to them bursting.

With these simple tips, you’ll be able to conquer any burrito-making challenge and enjoy a delicious, satisfying meal.

Nutritional Information for Taco Bell-Style Chicken Burrito

This recipe provides a delicious and relatively healthy alternative to the popular fast-food option.

• Approximate Calories: 540 kcal (°C: 222°F), 2260 kJ
• Total Fat: 24g (36% of the Daily Value) / 3.8 oz (113g)
• Protein: 35g (70% of the Daily Value) / 14 oz (397g)
• Total Carbohydrates: 40g (13% of the Daily Value) / 5.3 oz (150g)

Nutritional highlights: This recipe is relatively low in calories and fat compared to the original Taco Bell version.

Diet tags: Gluten-free (GF), Dairy-free (DF), Vegan (no), Vegetarian (yes)

Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to common questions about the Taco Bell Chicken Burrito recipe.

• What type of chicken is best for this recipe? Boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs work well, weighing around 450 g / 1 lb.
• Can I use store-bought tortillas? Yes, use large flour tortillas, about 25 cm / 10 inches in diameter, to make assembly easier.
• What’s the ideal cooking temperature for the chicken? Cook the chicken in a skillet at medium-high heat, around 200°C / 400°F, until it reaches an internal temperature of 74°C / 165°F.
• How do I prevent the burrito from falling apart? Make sure to warm the tortilla by wrapping it in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds, then fill and fold carefully.

For more specific guidance, refer to the recipe instructions and ingredient list for the Taco Bell Chicken Burrito.

Key Takeaways for Burrito Success

Craving that Taco Bell chicken burrito? Here’s what you need to know to make one at home that’s just as satisfying:

1. Seasoning is Key: Don’t skimp on the spices! A blend of cumin, chili powder, paprika, and garlic powder will give your chicken that unmistakable Taco Bell flavor.
2. Perfectly Cooked Chicken: Cook the chicken until it’s juicy and cooked through. Shred it for easy burrito filling.
3. Warm Your Tortillas: Warm tortillas are essential for a pliable, delicious burrito. Heat them on a griddle, in a dry skillet, or in the microwave for a few seconds.
4. Layer with Flavor: Don’t forget the rice, beans, cheese, and your favorite toppings! A little bit of sour cream or salsa fresca adds a refreshing touch.
5. Roll it Tight: Practice makes perfect when it comes to rolling burritos. Start with a flat surface and tuck in the sides, then roll tightly from the bottom up.

With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to crafting a Taco Bell-inspired chicken burrito that’s better than anything you can get from a drive-thru!

From the Kitchen of Alex

This Taco Bell-inspired chicken burrito recipe is a labor of love for me, and it all started with a late-night craving for a certain fast food favorite. I set out to recreate the flavors and textures of the real thing, using only the freshest ingredients and a few clever tweaks.

One of the secrets to this burrito’s success lies in the marinade. By combining the bold flavors of lime juice, chili powder, and cumin with a hint of brown sugar, we’re able to achieve that perfect balance of tangy and sweet.

I’ve also added a few personal touches to make this recipe truly special. The addition of roasted peppers and onions adds a depth of flavor and texture that’s simply irresistible. And let’s not forget the finishing touches – a sprinkle of queso fresco and a dollop of sour cream take this burrito from good to great.

Whether you’re a taco Tuesday enthusiast or just a lover of all things Mexican, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So go ahead, give it a try, and taste the difference for yourself!

Enjoy Your Homemade Taco Bell Chicken Burrito!

Now that the Taco Bell chicken burrito recipe is complete, it’s time to indulge in the delicious homemade meal. With the combination of tender chicken, flavorful rice, and crunchy vegetables, this burrito is sure to satisfy any craving. The best part? It’s made in the comfort of your own kitchen, allowing for a truly personalized dining experience.

Take a bite and appreciate the harmony of flavors and textures. The juicy chicken, cooked to perfection at 190°C / 375°F, pairs perfectly with the fresh cilantro and savory salsa. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own favorite toppings, such as shredded cheese (120 g / 1/2 cup), diced tomatoes, or crunchy tortilla strips.

• Share your creation on social media and inspire others to try this recipe.
• Experiment with different ingredients and toppings to make the dish your own.
• Enjoy the satisfaction of a homemade meal, made with love and care.