Black Bean Chicken Burritos

Black Bean Chicken Burritos
Black Bean Chicken Burritos
I try to hide as many veggies as possible in these burritos. Another way I bump up the nutrition level is by using thinly sliced cabbage instead of regular iceberg lettuce. The filling freezes well, so double the recipe.
  • Preparing Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Served Person: 8
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1/4 teaspoon pepper
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 2 teaspoons chili powder
  • 1 pound ground chicken
  • 1 tablespoon canola oil
  • 1 small green pepper chopped
  • 1 small sweet red pepper chopped
  • 1 jalapeno pepper seeded and finely chopped
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen corn
  • 1 can (15 ounces) black beans rinsed and drained
  • 8 flour tortillas (8 inches)
  • 1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and green chiles
  • sour cream shredded cheddar cheese, shredded lettuce and fresh cilantro le
  • Carbohydrate 16.0306866517532 g
  • Cholesterol 48.761179775 mg
  • Fat 7.37503775025641 g
  • Fiber 2.12476508252743 g
  • Protein 12.0403934436442 g
  • Saturated Fat 1.58238045725737 g
  • Serving Size 1 1 serving (111g)
  • Sodium 45.2707682948718 mg
  • Sugar 13.9059215692258 g
  • Trans Fat 0.57289051850641 g
  • Calories 175 calories

My Secret to Weeknight Wonders: Black Bean Chicken Burritos

As a busy mom of three, finding time to cook healthy and delicious meals feels like a constant uphill battle. Between school pick-ups, soccer practice, and the never-ending cycle of laundry, the last thing I want to do is spend hours in the kitchen. That's why I've developed a repertoire of quick, easy, and nutritious recipes that even the pickiest eaters in my house love. And my Black Bean Chicken Burritos are a definite family favorite.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Feel free to experiment with different spices, add your favorite veggies, or swap out ingredients depending on what you have on hand. One of my secret weapons is using thinly sliced cabbage instead of regular lettuce; it adds a nice crunch and a boost of nutrients without overwhelming the other flavors. I also sneak in extra vegetables wherever possible – you’d be surprised how much your kids will eat when they don’t even realize it’s there!

The best part? The filling freezes beautifully. I often double the recipe, making enough for several meals. This means that on a particularly hectic weeknight, I can simply grab a pre-portioned container from the freezer, heat it up, and assemble the burritos in a flash. It's my go-to meal prep strategy for those days when time is truly of the essence.

Beyond the convenience, these burritos are packed with flavor and protein. The combination of tender chicken, hearty black beans, and vibrant peppers creates a delightful explosion of taste. And the customizable toppings allow you to cater the burritos to everyone's preferences. Sour cream for the creamy lovers, shredded cheddar for those who crave a cheesy bite, fresh cilantro for a zesty kick – the options are endless.

A few tips for burrito perfection:

  • Don't overcook the chicken: Overcooked chicken can be dry and tough. Aim for a juicy, slightly crumbly texture.
  • Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder burrito, reduce the amount of chili powder and jalapeno. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Warm the tortillas: Warming the tortillas before filling them makes them more pliable and prevents them from cracking.
  • Get creative with toppings: Experiment with different toppings like guacamole, salsa, or pickled onions.
  • Make it a meal prep star: Double the recipe and freeze the filling for future quick meals.

These Black Bean Chicken Burritos are more than just a quick meal; they’re a testament to the power of simple, wholesome ingredients and a little bit of kitchen creativity. They're a recipe that’s saved me countless times, and I hope they become a staple in your kitchen too. So, next time you’re short on time but craving a delicious and satisfying dinner, reach for this recipe. Your family (and your sanity) will thank you for it!

Beyond the practicality, making these burritos is a little act of self-care. In the midst of the chaos of daily life, taking a few minutes to create a nourishing meal for myself and my family feels empowering. It’s a way to show my loved ones that I care, and it’s a small act of rebellion against the tyranny of takeout menus and processed food.

So, whether you’re a busy working mom, a seasoned traveler looking for a quick and easy meal on the road, or simply someone who appreciates a delicious and healthy dinner that doesn't require hours of preparation, give these Black Bean Chicken Burritos a try. You won't be disappointed. They're a recipe that's as versatile as it is delicious, a testament to the idea that even the simplest meals can bring joy and nourishment to our lives.

Step-by-step

    • In a large nonstick skillet, cook chicken over medium-high heat until no longer pink, breaking into crumbles, 4-6 minutes; drain and remove from skillet.
    • In the same skillet, saute peppers and onion in oil until lightly browned and crisp-tender, 2-4 minutes. Add jalapeno pepper and garlic; saute 1 minute longer.
    • Stir in beans, tomatoes, corn, seasonings and chicken. Bring to a boil.
    • Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, until liquid is evaporated, about 5 minutes.
    • Serve in tortillas, with optional toppings as desired.