The Best Chicken Breakfast Burrito Recipe

chicken breakfast burrito is the ultimate way to kickstart your morning with a delicious, protein-packed meal. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic burrito loaded with eggs and cheese or a healthier version with fresh veggies, this dish is easy to customize.

I’ll walk you through everything from why you’ll love this recipe to step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and FAQs. Plus, we’ll cover some common mistakes to avoid so you can make the perfect chicken breakfast burrito every time! Let’s get started.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Breakfast Burrito

A chicken breakfast burrito isn’t just a meal—it’s a game-changer for busy mornings. Here’s why:

A Perfect Grab-and-Go Breakfast

• Quick and easy: Takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
• Portable: Wrap it up and take it with you on the go.
• Minimal cleanup: Just one pan for cooking and a tortilla to wrap it all up.

Packed with Protein and Flavor

• High in protein: Chicken and eggs make this burrito filling and nutritious.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado, salsa, or cheese.
• Balanced flavors: The perfect blend of savory chicken, creamy cheese, and fluffy eggs.

Great for Meal Prep

• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare burritos in bulk for the week.
• Freezer-friendly: Store them in the freezer for a quick breakfast option.
• Easy to reheat: Pop them in the microwave, oven, or skillet for a fresh taste.

A great chicken breakfast burrito starts with high-quality ingredients. Whether you prefer a classic version or a healthier alternative, the ingredients you choose will determine the flavor and texture of your burrito.

Essential Ingredients

These ingredients form the base of a satisfying and flavorful burrito:

• Cooked chicken – Use grilled, shredded, or diced chicken for the best taste. Rotisserie chicken also works well.
• Scrambled eggs – Fluffy eggs add a rich and creamy texture.
• Tortillas – Choose flour, whole wheat, or low-carb tortillas based on your preference.
• Cheese – Cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend all melt beautifully.
• Salsa or hot sauce – Adds a burst of flavor and spice.

Optional Additions for Extra Flavor

If you want to enhance your burrito, try adding these ingredients:

• Avocado or guacamole – Adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt – A great way to balance flavors.
• Sautéed onions and bell peppers – Provides a slightly sweet, smoky flavor.
• Black beans or refried beans – Adds texture and extra protein.
• Fresh cilantro and lime juice – Enhances the freshness of the burrito.

Choosing the Best Chicken for Your Burrito

The type of chicken you use affects the overall taste and texture of your burrito:

With the right ingredients, you can customize your burrito to suit your taste and dietary needs.

Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to put everything together. Follow these simple steps to make a delicious chicken breakfast burrito from scratch.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

• If using grilled chicken, chop it into small bite-sized pieces.
• If using shredded chicken, warm it up with a bit of olive oil in a pan.
• For extra flavor, season the chicken with salt, black pepper, cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika.
• If you like a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

Step 2: Scramble the Eggs

• In a bowl, whisk eggs with a tablespoon of milk for a creamier texture.
• Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-low heat and add a little butter or oil.
• Pour in the eggs and stir gently with a spatula until soft and slightly fluffy.
• Avoid overcooking, as they will continue cooking inside the burrito.

Step 3: Warm the Tortillas

• Place the tortillas on a hot dry skillet for about 15-20 seconds per side until they are soft and pliable.
• If using a microwave, wrap the tortillas in a damp paper towel and heat for 15 seconds to prevent cracking.

Step 4: Assemble the Burrito

• Lay the warmed tortilla flat on a clean surface.
• Add a layer of scrambled eggs, followed by chicken, cheese, and any additional toppings.
• Drizzle with salsa, hot sauce, or sour cream for extra flavor.
• Avoid overfilling to prevent difficulty when rolling.

Step 5: Fold and Roll the Burrito

• Fold in the sides of the tortilla.
• Roll it up tightly from the bottom, making sure the filling stays secure.
• Place the burrito seam-side down to keep it closed.

Step 6: Toast the Burrito (Optional but Recommended)

• Heat a dry skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
• Place the burrito seam-side down and cook for 1-2 minutes per side until golden brown and slightly crispy.
• This step helps seal the burrito and enhances its texture.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

• Slice the burrito in half for easy eating.
• Serve with extra salsa, guacamole, or a side of roasted potatoes.

A perfectly made chicken breakfast burrito is warm, flavorful, and packed with protein, making it an ideal morning meal.

Best Ways to Store and Reheat Chicken Breakfast Burritos

One of the best things about chicken breakfast burritos is that they can be made in advance and stored for quick, easy meals. Whether you want to keep them in the fridge for a few days or freeze them for later, proper storage and reheating methods will ensure they stay fresh and delicious.

How to Store Chicken Breakfast Burritos

Refrigerator Storage (Up to 3 Days)

If you plan to eat your burritos within a few days, refrigeration is the best option.

• Allow the burritos to cool completely before storing to prevent sogginess.
• Wrap each burrito individually in foil, plastic wrap, or parchment paper to keep them fresh.
• Place the wrapped burritos in an airtight container to prevent moisture loss.

Freezer Storage (Up to 3 Months)

For long-term storage, freezing is the best method.

• Let the burritos cool completely before wrapping.
• Wrap each burrito tightly in parchment paper or aluminum foil.
• Place wrapped burritos in a freezer-safe bag or container, removing excess air to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date so you know when to use them.

How to Reheat Chicken Breakfast Burritos

Proper reheating is essential to maintain texture and flavor.

Microwave Method (Quickest Option)

• Unwrap the burrito and place it on a microwave-safe plate.
• Cover with a damp paper towel to keep it from drying out.
• Microwave for 1-2 minutes if refrigerated or 3-4 minutes if frozen, flipping halfway through.

Oven Method (Best for Even Heating)

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Keep the burrito wrapped in foil and place it on a baking sheet.
• Bake for 10-15 minutes if refrigerated or 30 minutes if frozen.
• Remove foil for the last 5 minutes to crisp up the tortilla.

Skillet Method (Best for a Crispy Burrito)

• Heat a dry skillet over medium heat.
• Place the burrito in the pan, flipping every 2-3 minutes until heated through.
• If frozen, cover the pan with a lid for the first few minutes to help it warm evenly.

Meal Prep Tips for Maximum Freshness

• If freezing, store salsa, sour cream, and avocado separately to avoid sogginess.
• Reheat only what you need to keep the rest fresh.
• Use a toaster oven or air fryer for a crispy, golden tortilla.

A properly stored and reheated chicken breakfast burrito will taste just as fresh as when you first made it.

How to Make a Healthier Chicken Breakfast Burrito

A chicken breakfast burrito can be both delicious and nutritious. With a few smart ingredient swaps, you can create a healthier version without sacrificing flavor. Here’s how you can make a lighter yet satisfying burrito.

Swap Ingredients for a Healthier Option

Increase Nutrients with Add-Ins

• Spinach or kale – Boosts vitamins A, C, and K.
• Mushrooms – Adds fiber and antioxidants.
• Avocado – Provides healthy fats and a creamy texture.
• Black beans – Adds fiber and plant-based protein.

Reduce Calories Without Losing Flavor

• Use a lighter tortilla (whole wheat, spinach, or low-carb).
• Reduce cheese and sour cream, replacing them with avocado or Greek yogurt.
• Load up on vegetables for extra nutrients and texture.
• Use grilled chicken instead of fried or processed options.

A healthier chicken breakfast burrito is just as delicious but packed with more nutrients and fewer empty calories.

Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Chicken Breakfast Burritos

Even though making a chicken breakfast burrito is simple, a few common mistakes can lead to a less-than-perfect result. Avoid these errors to ensure your burrito turns out delicious every time.

Overfilling the Tortilla

• The mistake: Adding too much filling makes rolling difficult and causes the burrito to fall apart.
• The fix: Use a balanced amount of ingredients—about ¾ cup of total filling per burrito.

Not Toasting the Burrito

• The mistake: Skipping the final toasting step results in a soft, soggy burrito.
• The fix: Lightly grill the burrito in a dry skillet for 1-2 minutes per side to seal it and enhance texture.

Skipping Seasoning

• The mistake: Relying only on chicken and eggs without adding seasoning.
• The fix: Use salt, pepper, cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, or a pinch of chili powder for a rich, balanced flavor.

Using the Wrong Type of Chicken

• The mistake: Choosing chicken that is too dry or bland.
• The fix: Use grilled, shredded, or rotisserie chicken for the best texture and taste. Avoid overly dry or fried options.

Not Storing Properly

• The mistake: Leaving burritos uncovered in the fridge or freezer leads to dry, freezer-burnt tortillas.
• The fix: Wrap burritos individually in foil, parchment paper, or plastic wrap before storing in a sealed container or freezer bag.

Reheating Incorrectly

• The mistake: Microwaving a burrito without covering it dries it out.
• The fix: Cover with a damp paper towel in the microwave or reheat in an oven or skillet for a crispy texture.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you create the perfect chicken breakfast burrito every time.

A chicken breakfast burrito is the perfect combination of flavor, convenience, and nutrition. Whether you prefer a classic, cheesy version or a healthier option with fresh vegetables and whole wheat tortillas, this meal is easy to customize to your taste.

Whether you’re making a single burrito for breakfast or meal-prepping for the week, this chicken breakfast burrito recipe is a quick, delicious, and satisfying way to start your day.