Description
These Chicken Bell Pepper Ranch Burritos are a delicious and easy-to-make meal, perfect for a quick lunch or satisfying dinner. They’re packed with flavor, combining juicy chicken, colorful bell peppers, creamy ranch dressing, and your favorite cheese, all wrapped in a warm, soft tortilla. Customizable with optional black beans and corn, these burritos are a guaranteed hit for the whole family!
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup bell peppers, chopped (a mix of colors is great!)
- 1/2 cup ranch dressing
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite blend)
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed (optional)
- 1/2 cup corn, frozen or canned (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional toppings: Sour cream, salsa, guacamole
Preparation:
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, chopped bell peppers, ranch dressing, and shredded cheese.
Step 2: If you’re using black beans and corn, add them to the bowl.
Step 3: Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your liking. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Warm the flour tortillas. You can do this in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 15-20 seconds per side, or in the microwave, wrapped in a damp paper towel, for about 30 seconds. This makes them more pliable and easier to roll.
Step 5: Lay a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spoon a generous amount of the chicken and vegetable mixture into the center of the tortilla, leaving some space at the edges.
Step 6: Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then tightly roll it up from the bottom to form a burrito.
Step 7: Repeat with the remaining tortillas and filling.
Step 8: Optional: For added flavor and a warm, melty finish, place the assembled burritos seam-side down in a baking dish. Top with extra shredded cheese if desired.
Step 9: Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the burritos are heated through.
Step 10: Serve warm, with your favorite toppings like sour cream, salsa, and guacamole.
Why you’ll love this recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful: The combination of chicken, bell peppers, ranch, and cheese is a taste explosion.
- Customizable: Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding or substituting ingredients.
- Kid-Friendly: A great way to get kids to eat their vegetables.
- Versatile: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a snack.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans.
- Top with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, or your favorite hot sauce.
- Add a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.
- Cut the burritos in half for easier serving and eating.
- Serve with tortilla chips and your favorite dip.
Tips:
- Use leftover cooked chicken to save time. Rotisserie chicken works great!
- Chop the bell peppers ahead of time to streamline the preparation process.
- Don’t overfill the tortillas, or they will be difficult to roll.
- If you don’t have black beans or corn, feel free to omit them or substitute with other vegetables like diced tomatoes or onions.
- For a spicier burrito, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the chicken mixture or use a spicy ranch dressing.
- To prevent the burritos from getting soggy, avoid adding too much ranch dressing.
- You can prepare the burritos ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake them just before serving.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Nutrition Information:
(Note: Nutritional information is approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients and serving sizes.)
- Calories: 450-550 (per burrito)
- Protein: 30-40g
- Sodium: 700-900mg
Conclusion
These Chicken Bell Pepper Ranch Burritos are a fantastic meal that’s both satisfying and convenient. With their customizable ingredients and easy preparation, they’re sure to become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty lunch option, these burritos are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Enjoy!
Questions and Answers:
Q1: Can I use a different type of meat instead of chicken?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef, shredded pork, or even turkey would be delicious substitutes for the chicken. Just make sure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the burrito filling.
Q2: Can I make these burritos vegetarian?
A: Yes, you can easily make these burritos vegetarian. Simply omit the chicken and add more vegetables, such as sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach. You could also add a can of vegetarian refried beans for extra protein and flavor.
Q3: Can I freeze these burritos for later?
A: Yes, these burritos freeze well. Wrap each burrito individually in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight, then bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also microwave them, but they may become slightly soggy.
Q4: What kind of cheese works best in these burritos?
A: Cheddar cheese is a classic choice, but you can use any cheese that melts well, such as Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend. Pepper Jack would add a little spice!
Q5: Can I grill these burritos?
A: Yes, grilling these burritos adds a delicious smoky flavor. After assembling the burritos, brush them lightly with oil and grill them over medium heat for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and slightly crispy. Be sure to watch them carefully to prevent burning.
