Slow cooker chicken burrito has become my go-to for hectic weeknights, and I know you’ll feel the same! There’s something incredibly comforting about the smell of savory chicken and warming spices filling the house while I haven’t lifted a finger. This recipe is so simple, it’s the definition of an easy slow cooker chicken burrito. I first tried making it when I was juggling a new job and felt completely overwhelmed, and it was a lifesaver. I promise, learning how to make slow cooker chicken burrito like this will transform your busy evenings. Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito
This recipe is a weeknight game-changer, and here’s why:
- Incredible Flavor: The slow cooker melds tender chicken with zesty tomatoes, beans, corn, and spices for a taste explosion.
- Minimal Prep Time: Seriously, it only takes about 15 minutes to get everything into the pot.
- Healthy & Wholesome: Packed with protein and fiber, this is a nutritious choice for a satisfying meal.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses common, inexpensive ingredients to create a meal that feeds a crowd without breaking the bank.
- Family Favorite: Even picky eaters love the customizable nature of these burrito bowls.
- Effortless Shredding: The magic of the shredded chicken burrito slow cooker method means the chicken practically falls apart.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch of this shredded chicken burrito slow cooker filling on the weekend for easy lunches all week.
- Versatile Serving: Enjoy it in bowls, tacos, or even as a filling for quesadillas.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito
Gathering the right slow cooker chicken burrito ingredients is key to a delicious meal. This list covers everything you need for that perfect, savory filling:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs – Thighs offer a richer flavor and stay more moist, but breasts are a leaner choice.
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed – Rinsing removes excess sodium and starch, keeping the texture pleasant.
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned) – Adds a touch of sweetness and texture that complements the chicken.
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies – These provide liquid, acidity, and a hint of spice to season the dish.
- 1 medium onion, chopped – Onion forms a flavor base, softening and sweetening as it cooks.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds a pungent depth that is essential for Mexican-inspired flavors.
- 2 teaspoons chili powder – The backbone of the spice blend, bringing warmth and color.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin – Cumin adds an earthy, smoky note that pairs perfectly with chili powder.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing all the other flavors.
How to Make Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito
Let’s get this deliciousness going! This recipe is so straightforward, you’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create such a flavorful meal. While this recipe uses the slow cooker, for other methods, you might preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) if you were baking something else, but here, we just need to prep our slow cooker.
- Step 1: Begin by preparing your ingredients. Chop one medium onion and mince three cloves of garlic. Drain and rinse one can of black beans, and have your corn kernels ready.
- Step 2: Place your chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of your slow cooker. This is where the magic starts to happen for your slow cooker shredded chicken burrito filling.
- Step 3: Add the drained black beans, corn kernels, one can of diced tomatoes with green chilies, the chopped onion, and minced garlic on top of the chicken.
- Step 4: Sprinkle the seasonings evenly over the mixture: two teaspoons of chili powder, one teaspoon of ground cumin, and then season generously with salt and pepper to your taste. Give everything a gentle stir to combine.
- Step 5: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is incredibly tender and easily shreds. The aromas filling your kitchen will be amazing!
- Step 6: Once cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the slow cooker. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. This step is crucial for achieving that perfect slow cooker shredded chicken burrito filling texture.
- Step 7: Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir it back into the beans, corn, and tomato mixture. Let it sit for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together, creating the ultimate slow cooker shredded chicken burrito filling.
Pro Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito
To elevate your slow cooker chicken burrito game, I’ve picked up a few tricks that make all the difference. These simple tips ensure maximum flavor and perfect texture every time.
- For the juiciest results, I always opt for chicken thighs. They have more fat, which means more flavor and less risk of drying out, even with slow cooking.
- Don’t skip rinsing your beans! This small step removes excess sodium and the starchy liquid, preventing your filling from becoming mushy.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Sometimes, a little extra salt or a pinch more chili powder is all it needs to sing.
- If you have time, toasting your chili powder and cumin in a dry skillet for about a minute before adding them to the slow cooker really deepens their flavor. For more on spice blending, check out this guide.
What’s the secret to perfect shredded chicken burrito slow cooker filling?
The true secret to a perfect slow cooker shredded chicken burrito filling is patience and a little heat management. Cook the chicken until it’s fall-apart tender, then shred it. Returning it to the slow cooker for a final 15 minutes lets it soak up all those delicious juices. This method is similar to how slow cooking enhances flavors in other dishes, like those found here.
Can I make slow cooker chicken burrito ahead of time?
Absolutely! This is a fantastic recipe for meal prep. You can assemble all the ingredients (except maybe the lime juice and cilantro) in the slow cooker liner the night before and refrigerate it. Then, just pop it in the cooker in the morning. The cooked filling also stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. For more on meal prep strategies, consider these tips.
How do I avoid common mistakes with easy slow cooker chicken burrito?
A common pitfall is overcooking the chicken, which makes it dry. Stick to the recommended cook times. Also, don’t forget to drain and rinse your beans to avoid excess liquid and a starchy taste. Finally, season generously; the slow cooker mellows flavors, so a good initial seasoning is crucial. Understanding the science behind cooking, like how heat affects food, can be helpful. You can learn more about cooking fundamentals.
Best Ways to Serve Chicken Burrito Bowl Slow Cooker Style
Once your slow cooker has worked its magic, the fun truly begins with how you serve this incredible filling. The beauty of this chicken burrito bowl slow cooker dish is its versatility. My favorite way is to build a hearty bowl over a bed of fluffy rice, or for a lighter option, cauliflower rice.
Don’t stop there! You can also spoon this delicious filling into warm tortillas for classic burritos or tacos. For a fun appetizer, use it as a filling for crispy quesadillas. Whichever way you choose, consider topping it with fresh cilantro, a squeeze of lime, creamy avocado, shredded cheese, or a dollop of salsa or sour cream. It’s a complete meal that’s as vibrant as it is satisfying.
Nutrition Facts for Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito
This slow cooker chicken burrito bowl is a fantastic option for a balanced meal. The combination of lean protein, fiber-rich beans, and wholesome corn makes for a satisfying and nutritious choice. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional content per serving, based on the recipe yielding 6 servings:
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Protein: 35g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 75mg
Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes used.
How to Store and Reheat Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito
One of the best things about this recipe is how perfectly it lends itself to slow cooker chicken burrito meal prep. Once your delicious filling has cooled down, transfer it into airtight containers. For refrigerator storage, it will keep beautifully for about 3 to 4 days. This makes it super convenient for packing grab-and-go lunches throughout the week! For more on safe food storage, consult these guidelines.
If you want to store it for longer, the filling freezes exceptionally well. Pack it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it can be kept frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your prepped meal, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals until heated through, or even pop it back into the slow cooker on the warm setting for about 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito
Got questions about whipping up this amazing dish? I’ve got answers to help you make the best slow cooker chicken burrito possible!
Is this a healthy slow cooker chicken burrito?
Absolutely! This recipe is designed to be a healthy slow cooker chicken burrito. It’s packed with lean protein from the chicken, fiber from the beans and corn, and uses minimal added fat. By serving it over brown rice or cauliflower rice and loading up on fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro, you create a truly nutritious meal.
Can I use ground chicken instead of breasts or thighs?
Yes, you can definitely use ground chicken! If you opt for ground chicken, you’ll want to brown it first in a skillet before adding it to the slow cooker with the other ingredients. This ensures the best texture and flavor. It will cook faster, so adjust your slow cooker time accordingly, likely needing only 2-3 hours on low. For more on cooking ground meats, see this resource.
What if I don’t like beans? Can I make a slow cooker chicken burrito recipe no beans?
No problem at all! If you’re looking for a slow cooker chicken burrito recipe no beans, simply omit them. You might want to add a bit more corn or perhaps some diced bell peppers to maintain the texture and volume of the filling. The flavor will still be fantastic!
How can I make the chicken extra flavorful for my slow cooker chicken burrito?
To boost the flavor, I love to toast the chili powder and cumin in a dry pan for about 60 seconds before adding them to the slow cooker. This really wakes up their aromatic qualities. Additionally, using chicken thighs instead of breasts adds richness, and don’t be shy with the salt and pepper – they are flavor enhancers!
Variations of Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito You Can Try
Once you’ve mastered the basic slow cooker chicken burrito, you’ll love experimenting with different twists. These variations offer simple ways to change up the flavors and cater to various dietary needs, making this dish endlessly adaptable.
- Spicy Fiesta: For those who love a kick, add a minced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the slow cooker along with the other spices. This creates a wonderfully fiery, simple slow cooker chicken burrito.
- Vegetarian Delight: Skip the chicken and load up on extra beans, corn, and maybe some diced sweet potatoes or bell peppers. This makes for a hearty and satisfying meat-free option.
- Lime-Cilantro Twist: After cooking, stir in the juice of two limes and a generous handful of fresh cilantro. This brightens up the flavors beautifully, offering a zesty take on the classic.
- Chicken Burrito Bowl Casserole: Instead of serving in bowls, layer the filling with cooked rice and shredded cheese in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly for a comforting casserole.
Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito: 1 Amazing Flavor
- Total Time: 6 hours 15 minutes to 7 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Slow Cooker Chicken Burrito Bowls offer a flavorful and simple meal, perfect for busy schedules. This recipe features tender chicken cooked with beans, corn, tomatoes, and spices, creating a hearty dish. Serve over rice or cauliflower rice with fresh toppings for a healthy and customizable meal ideal for meal prepping.
Ingredients
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, frozen, or canned)
- 1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 2 cups cooked rice or cauliflower rice
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: shredded cheese, avocado slices, sour cream, salsa
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Gather all ingredients. Chop the onion and mince the garlic to prepare them for cooking.
- Combine in the Slow Cooker: Place chicken breasts or thighs at the bottom of the slow cooker. Add black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to combine.
- Cook Low and Slow: Set the slow cooker to low and cook for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the chicken is tender and cooked through.
- Shred the Chicken: Remove the cooked chicken and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and stir to blend evenly with the other ingredients.
- Assemble Your Burrito Bowls: Serve the chicken mixture over warm cooked rice or cauliflower rice. Top with fresh lime juice, chopped cilantro, and any desired toppings such as cheese, avocado, sour cream, or salsa.
Notes
- Choose chicken thighs for juicier results or breasts for a leaner option.
- Rinse canned beans to reduce sodium and avoid mushy texture.
- Add lime juice just before serving to preserve its bright, fresh flavor.
- Do not overcook the chicken to prevent dryness.
- For deeper flavor, toast spices briefly before adding to the slow cooker if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 to 7 hours on low or 3 to 4 hours on high
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
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