Quick Fiesta Chicken Burritos with Black Beans and Cheesy Delight

Fiesta Chicken and Bean Burritos

Are you ready to embark on a flavor-packed adventure that’s both satisfying and convenient? Look no further than these Fiesta Chicken and Bean Burritos, a delightful recipe inspired by the New Orleans Times-Picayune Newspaper. With just a touch of tweaking, this dish has been perfected to bring you a wholesome and easy meal that’s perfect for busy weekdays and meal prep. So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into this savory fiesta!

Ingredients

• 10 flour tortillas 🌯
• 2 onions, finely chopped 🧅
• 1 garlic clove, minced 🧄
• 2-3 chicken breast halves, cooked and shredded 🍗
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed 🥫
• 1 can mild green chilies, chopped 🌶️
• 1 can diced tomatoes 🍅
• 1 cup cooked rice 🍚
• 1 1/2 teaspoons powdered cumin 🌿
• 1 teaspoon chili powder 🌶️
• 1 bay leaf 🍂
• 1 teaspoon oregano 🌿
• 1 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 🧀
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded 🧀
• 1/2 cup black olives, sliced 🫒
• 2 scallions, sliced 🧅

Instructions

1. Preheat the Oven: Start by preheating your oven to a low temperature, around 200°F (93°C). Wrap the tortillas in aluminum foil and place them in the oven to warm up. This step ensures that the tortillas become pliable and easier to work with.

2. Prepare the Filling: Heat a generous amount of oil in a heavy, deep pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onions and minced garlic, along with the powdered cumin, chili powder, oregano, and bay leaf. Sauté the mixture until the onions become translucent, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

3. Cook the Chicken: Once the onions are ready, add the shredded chicken, diced tomatoes, and mild green chilies to the pot. Stir the ingredients well to ensure they are evenly combined and heated throughout.

4. Combine Ingredients: Add the black beans and cooked rice to the pot, mixing everything together thoroughly. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the filling is heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Assemble the Burritos: Carefully remove the tortillas from the oven and unwrap them. Place a generous amount of the chicken and bean filling down the center of each tortilla, leaving about an inch of space at both ends. Sprinkle about 2 tablespoons of the shredded Monterey Jack and cheddar cheeses on top of the filling.

6. Roll and Freeze: Fold the top and bottom of each tortilla over the filling, then fold one side in and roll tightly towards the other side. At this point, you can freeze the burritos for future meals. Wrap each burrito in waxed paper, then foil to prevent freezer burn.

7. Bake and Serve: If you’re ready to enjoy the burritos now, place them seam-side down in an oblong casserole dish. Top with any remaining cheese and optional toppings like sliced black olives and scallions. Cover the dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

• Freezing Tips: When freezing, be sure to wrap the burritos tightly in waxed paper and foil to keep them fresh. You can store them in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat in the oven or microwave.

• Optional Toppings: Feel free to customize your burritos with additional toppings such as sour cream, salsa, or avocado for an extra layer of flavor.

With this recipe, you’ll have a delicious, hearty meal ready in no time. Whether you’re preparing for a busy week or planning a fun family dinner, these Fiesta Chicken and Bean Burritos are sure to become a favorite. Enjoy the burst of flavors and the convenience of a homemade meal! 🌯✨