Craving a delicious and wholesome meal that’s simple to make? These BBQ Shredded Chicken Burritos are a fantastic addition to your collection of Healthy Burrito Recipes. You’ll love how quickly you can put together these flavorful and satisfying burritos, perfect for any weeknight dinner.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Chicken Breast: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a richer flavor.
- BBQ Sauce: Choose a low-sugar or homemade BBQ sauce for a healthier option.
- Whole Wheat Tortillas: Corn tortillas or lettuce wraps work well for a gluten-free or lower-carb alternative.
- Black Beans: Canned pinto beans are a great substitute.
- Corn: Fresh, frozen, or canned corn will all work.
- Greek Yogurt: Use sour cream if you prefer, but Greek yogurt adds a healthy tang.
Ingredients
- 2 large boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce, divided
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1/2 cup finely diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 6-8 medium whole wheat tortillas
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, diced avocado, salsa
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: Approximately 420 calories
- Tools needed: Large skillet or pot, cutting board, knife
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook and Shred the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a large pot or skillet. Cover them with water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Once cooled slightly, shred the chicken using two forks.
2. Combine Chicken with BBQ Sauce
In a bowl, toss the shredded chicken with 3/4 cup of the BBQ sauce. Make sure the chicken is evenly coated. This step infuses the chicken with that delicious BBQ flavor.
3. Prepare the Burrito Filling
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the black beans, corn, diced red onion, cilantro, cumin, and smoked paprika. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through and the flavors meld. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Assemble Your Burritos
Warm your whole wheat tortillas slightly according to package directions. Lay out a tortilla and spread a spoonful of the remaining BBQ sauce down the center. Top with a generous portion of the BBQ shredded chicken, followed by the bean and corn mixture. Add a dollop of Greek yogurt and any optional toppings you desire.
5. Roll the Burritos
Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then tightly roll it up from the bottom. You now have a perfect BBQ Shredded Chicken Burrito ready to enjoy! Repeat with the remaining ingredients to assemble all your delicious Healthy Burrito Recipes.
Variation Ideas
- Add a sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese for extra creaminess.
- Include diced bell peppers in the bean mixture for added crunch and nutrients.
- Spice it up with a dash of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño.
- Turn it into a burrito bowl by serving the filling over brown rice or quinoa.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover BBQ Shredded Chicken Burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes, or warm them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use pre-cooked chicken?
A: Yes, absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken will save you time. Just shred it and proceed with the recipe.
Q: Are these burritos spicy?
A: This recipe is mild. If you prefer more spice, you can add a pinch of chili powder or a few dashes of hot sauce to the filling.
Q: What kind of BBQ sauce should I use?
A: You can use your favorite BBQ sauce. For a healthier option, look for varieties with lower sugar content or make your own.
Q: Can I freeze these burritos?
A: Yes, you can freeze assembled burritos. Wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap and then foil. They can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How do I make these burritos vegetarian?
A: Omit the chicken and double the amount of black beans, or add a can of mashed chickpeas for extra protein. This will still be a fantastic healthy burrito recipe.
Q: What are some good sides for these burritos?
A: A simple green salad, some sweet potato fries, or a side of guacamole and tortilla chips would pair wonderfully with these BBQ Shredded Chicken Burritos.
