Why You’ll Love this Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos Recipe
When you plunge into making these Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos, you’ll quickly realize why they’re a family favorite. The blend of flavors is simply irresistible, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while they cook is heavenly.
I love how effortlessly they come together, saving me time on busy days. Plus, you can customize each burrito to suit everyone’s tastes—whether it’s extra cheese, more veggies, or a dollop of sour cream.
The best part? They’re perfect for meal prep, so I can enjoy leftovers throughout the week. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it regularly, and your family will be asking for it again and again!
Ingredients of Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos
When it comes to whipping up a delicious meal that feels both comforting and a little bit exotic, these Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos are the answer. The ingredient list might look a bit long, but I promise, each component plays a special role in creating that mouthwatering flavor profile. Plus, they’re super easy to throw together, which is a win in my book.
If you’re like me and sometimes find yourself staring at a bare fridge, you might be surprised at how many of these ingredients you already have on hand. So, let’s gather what we need to make these burritos a reality.
Ingredients:
- 10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 ounce ready-to-use baked pizza crust (I know, it’s a little odd, but trust me)
- Durkee Grill Creations chipotle marinade mix (you’ll use half for seasoning and half for the sauce)
- 10 ounces cream of chicken soup
- 1 cup sour cream (and maybe a little bit extra for serving)
- 1 teaspoon dehydrated onion
- A dash of Lawry’s Seasoned Salt
- 16 ounces refried beans
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 10 flour tortillas (10 inch)
- 3 cups shredded lettuce
- 1 tomato, chopped
- 1/2 cup sour cream for topping
Now, let’s talk a little about those ingredients. You might’ve noticed that cream of chicken soup and refried beans are hiding in the list. They may not be the stars of the show, but they’re like the supportive friends that help everything come together.
The cream of chicken soup adds creaminess and richness, while the refried beans give that hearty texture that burritos are known for. And don’t get me started on the chipotle seasoning—it’s the secret weapon that brings everything to life.
If you want to mix it up, feel free to swap out the chicken for shredded beef or even some beans for a vegetarian twist. Just remember, cooking is all about experimenting and finding what works for you and your taste buds.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of making these Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos. First things first, grab your trusty slow cooker and line it with a Reynolds crock pot liner. This isn’t just for show; it’s going to save you a whole lot of scrubbing later.
Now, take those 10 boneless, skinless chicken thighs and sprinkle a light dash of Lawry’s Seasoned Salt over them. Don’t go crazy here; we’re just giving them a little flavor boost. Next, take half of that Durkee Grill Creations chipotle marinade mix and sprinkle it on top of the chicken too. You want to make sure those thighs are well-seasoned right from the get-go.
Now comes the fun part. In a separate bowl, mix together 10 ounces of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 teaspoon of dehydrated onion, and the remaining half of the chipotle seasoning. Stir it up until it’s all smooth and creamy, kind of like a dreamy dip but with a little extra pizazz.
Spoon this mixture over the seasoned chicken thighs in your slow cooker and let it work its magic. If your chicken is frozen, you’re looking at about 4-5 hours on high. If it’s thawed, go for 6 hours on low. Just imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen; it’s pure bliss.
When the chicken is fully cooked and practically falling apart, remove it and shred it with two forks. This part is oddly satisfying, like a mini workout, and you’ll feel like a culinary rock star.
Once you’ve shredded the chicken, it’s time to amp up the flavor even more. Toss the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker, along with 16 ounces of refried beans and 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese. Stir it all together and let it cook on low for another 15 minutes. This will help thicken up the mixture, making it easier to stuff into your tortillas later.
Speaking of tortillas, take your 10 flour tortillas and fill each one with that delicious chicken mixture. Roll them up tightly, then top them off with 3 cups of shredded lettuce, some chopped tomatoes, and a drizzle of that extra 1/2 cup of sour cream.
There you have it—delicious burritos ready to be devoured. Enjoy the satisfaction of knowing you just made something seriously tasty, and maybe, just maybe, treat yourself to a little extra scoop of sour cream on the side.
Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
For a lighter option, you can swap chicken thighs for skinless chicken breasts or even use shredded rotisserie chicken for a quicker meal.
If you’re vegetarian, try using black beans or lentils instead of chicken.
Want to change the flavor? Experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or cumin.
For the tortillas, whole wheat or corn options work great, too.
You can also add veggies like bell peppers or corn into the mix for extra crunch.
Finally, switch up the toppings—guacamole or fresh cilantro can add a delightful twist!
What to Serve with Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos
Serving Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos at your next gathering creates a delicious centerpiece, but pairing them with the right sides elevates the entire meal.
I love to serve a fresh corn salad tossed with lime juice and cilantro; it adds a revitalizing contrast. You can’t go wrong with tortilla chips and a zesty salsa or guacamole on the side, either.
For something heartier, consider a side of Mexican street corn or Mexican rice seasoned with lime and spices. A simple green salad with avocado and a light vinaigrette also complements the burritos beautifully.
And don’t forget some extra sour cream and shredded cheese for guests who want to personalize their burritos!
Additional Tips & Notes
Pairing sides with your Slow Cooker Chipotle Chicken Burritos can enhance the meal, but a few additional tips can take your dish to the next level.
First, consider marinating the chicken overnight for deeper flavor. I also love adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving; it brightens everything up.
If you prefer a little heat, feel free to toss in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. For extra crunch, serve with tortilla chips on the side or add crispy taco shells.
Finally, don’t forget to garnish with fresh cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. These little touches make a big difference and elevate your dining experience! Enjoy your meal!