Delicious Seven Layer Chicken Burritos for Ultimate Meal Prep

Name: Delicious Seven Layer Chicken Burritos for Ultimate Meal Prep
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 55 min
Ingredients: 1 pound seasoned chicken (grilled or shredded); 1 cup beans (black, pinto, or refried); 1 cup rice (white or brown); 1 cup fresh salsa (store-bought or homemade); 1 cup guacamole (mash fresh avocados with lime and salt); 1/2 cup sour cream (or Greek yogurt); 1 cup cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or Mexican blend); 1/4 cup jalapeños (sliced); 1 cup lettuce (fresh)

Hi I'm Melany

Everyday Culinary Delights👩‍🍳

Posted on September 4, 2025

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As I stood in my kitchen, the warm aroma of seasoned chicken enveloped me, instantly transporting me to my favorite Tex-Mex eatery. That’s when I knew: it was time to whip up my beloved Seven Layer Chicken Burritos. This hearty, customizable meal invites you to play with flavors and textures, layering creamy guacamole and zesty salsa inside a soft tortilla. Perfect for busy weeknights or those gatherings where everyone brings their appetites, these burritos also shine as meal prep champions; you can make them ahead and pop them in the freezer for later. Are you ready to dive into a culinary adventure that will leave your family asking for seconds? Let’s get started!

What makes these burritos so special?

Customizable Delight: These Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are designed for personalization—tweak fillings to suit your taste. Hearty & Filling: Packed with protein, beans, and grains, these burritos are a fully satisfying meal. Meal Prep Friendly: Prep ahead and store for a quick lunch or dinner option throughout the week. Flavor Explosion: Experience a wonderful balance of savory, creamy, and zesty flavors in each bite. Easy to Make: Simple steps ensure that even novice cooks can enjoy a home-cooked burrito. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for gatherings, everyone can indulge in their favorite layers—making it an irresistible choice! Whether serving up your own creation or trying other classics like Cheesy Chicken Stuffed Baked Potatoes, this burrito is sure to impress.

Seven Layer Chicken Burrito Ingredients

For the Burrito
• Seasoned Chicken – Use grilled or shredded chicken for a protein-packed and savory base.
• Beans – Choose black, pinto, or refried beans to enhance heartiness and fiber content.
• Rice – White or brown rice provides a filling foundation; try seasoning it for added flavor.
• Fresh Salsa – Bring freshness and acidity with store-bought or homemade salsa for a zesty kick.
• Guacamole – Mash fresh avocados with lime and salt to add a creamy richness to your burrito.
• Sour Cream – Offers a cooling contrast—Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative!
• Cheese – Add cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend for a delicious, gooey texture.

Optional Additions
• Jalapeños – Spice it up with sliced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
• Lettuce – Include fresh lettuce for added crunch in your Seven Layer Chicken Burrito.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Begin by cooking your seasoned chicken—grill or sauté it in a skillet over medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes per side until cooked through and golden brown. Once fully cooked, let it rest for five minutes before shredding it into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure each Seven Layer Chicken Burrito is packed with tender, savory flavor.

Step 2: Cook the Rice
While the chicken is resting, prepare your rice according to package instructions. If desired, cook it with chicken broth and seasoning for extra flavor, simmering for about 15-20 minutes until tender. Fluff the rice with a fork once done, and set it aside. This fluffy rice will serve as a hearty base for your burrito layers.

Step 3: Heat the Beans
In a small saucepan over medium heat, warm your choice of beans—black, pinto, or refried—until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. This adds both heartiness and fiber to your Seven Layer Chicken Burrito, enhancing its overall flavor and texture.

Step 4: Assemble Your Burrito
Take a large flour tortilla and begin layering your ingredients. Start with a generous scoop of beans and rice in the center, followed by a portion of the shredded chicken. Add a spoonful of fresh salsa, a touch of creamy guacamole, and a dollop of sour cream. Top with a sprinkle of cheese to bring everything together.

Step 5: Wrap Tightly
To wrap your Seven Layer Chicken Burrito, fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, enclosing the fillings. Then, starting from the bottom, roll it up tightly until everything is well secured. This technique will help prevent any leakage when you dig in.

Step 6: Serve or Store
Your delicious burritos are now ready to be enjoyed! You can serve them immediately or wrap them tightly in foil or plastic wrap for storage. If saved for later, these Seven Layer Chicken Burritos can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days or frozen for longer storage. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving for the best taste!

Seven Layer Chicken Burrito Variations

Feel free to mix it up and have fun with these delicious twists on your Seven Layer Chicken Burrito that cater to every taste!

Vegetarian: Swap the chicken for your choice of grilled veggies or tofu for a hearty, plant-based delight. It’s a great way to enjoy a satisfying meal without sacrificing flavor.
Spicy Kick: Add jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce for a fiery burst of heat. If you’re a spice lover, this adjustment will surely elevate your burritos to a whole new level of excitement!
Cheesy Goodness: Incorporate a mix of different cheeses, like pepper jack for some extra zing. Combining flavors can create a wonderfully gooey texture that everyone will love.
Cilantro-Lime Rice: Replace plain rice with cilantro-lime rice for zesty freshness. Just toss warm rice with lime juice and fresh cilantro to brighten your burrito experience.
Crunchy Layers: Top your burrito with some crispy tortilla strips or shredded lettuce for added crunch. It creates a delightful contrast to the creaminess of guacamole and sour cream.
Beans Boost: Experiment with different types of beans like black, pinto, or even white beans for a unique twist. Each type lends a distinct flavor and texture that can enhance your meal.
Freezer-Friendly: Prepare burritos with lower moisture ingredients for freezing. This makes reheating a breeze—try packing them with just beans, rice, and cheese before storing.
Saucy Addition: Drizzle some ranch dressing or homemade Spicy Chipotle Ranch inside for a creamy finish. This can add a delightful tanginess that rounds out the flavors beautifully.

No matter how you decide to customize, these burritos will shine in any adaptation. They pair wonderfully with sides like Cheesy Chicken Avocado Melt Sandwich or Sweet Sticky Chicken to create an unforgettable feast!

How to Store and Freeze Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

Fridge: Store leftover burritos wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 2 days. This keeps them fresh and prevents drying out.

Freezer: For longer storage, freeze burritos in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag for up to 3 months. This preserves flavor and texture.

Reheating: To reheat, unwrap and place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or microwave for 2-3 minutes until heated throughout. Enjoy your Seven Layer Chicken Burritos with all their delicious layers!

Thawing: If frozen, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. This ensures even warming and the best taste when you’re ready to dig in!

Make Ahead Options

These Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are a meal prep dream, perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the chicken, beans, and rice up to 3 days in advance, keeping them stored separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain the quality, layer dryer ingredients like beans and rice first when assembling, adding the guacamole and sour cream just before serving, to prevent sogginess. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply wrap them in tortillas and reheat the assembled burritos in the microwave for a quick, satisfying meal, or pop them in the oven to enjoy that fresh, warm texture. With these make ahead tips, you’ll always have a scrumptious meal at hand!

Expert Tips for Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

Layer Order Matters: Start with dryer ingredients like beans and rice to prevent sogginess from wet ingredients like guacamole and sour cream.
Perfectly Cook the Chicken: Ensure the chicken is tender and well-seasoned, making a huge difference in the flavor of your Seven Layer Chicken Burritos.
Don’t Overfill: While it’s tempting to pack in all the fillings, overstuffing can lead to messy burritos. Stick to a balanced amount for easy wrapping!
Warm Your Tortillas: Lightly warming tortillas makes them more pliable and less likely to tear during wrapping—stop them from breaking apart!
Experiment with Proteins: Try using beef, pork, or even tofu as alternatives to chicken for variant flavors in your Seven Layer Chicken Burritos.

What to Serve with Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

Elevate your meal experience with delightful sides and drinks that enhance the hearty flavors of your burritos.

Creamy Guacamole: Adds even more layer of creaminess; a perfect dip for extra crunch and flavor.
Zesty Salsa Verde: Offers a vibrant contrast with its tartness, brightening every bite of your burrito.
Spanish Rice: Serve alongside to complement the burritos’ filling with its own flavorful twist and comforting texture.
Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for dipping; these crunchy bites pair beautifully with the creamy elements of your burrito.

For an added texture and freshness, consider a Crisp Side Salad. Combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and lime dressing for a refreshing balance against the savory burrito.

Refreshing Watermelon Agua Fresca: Wash it all down with this light and fruity drink, perfectly quenching your thirst after all the spices.
Churros with Chocolate Sauce: End the meal on a sweet note; the cinnamon sugar contrast against the warm chocolate sauce is a delightful treat.

Seven Layer Chicken Burrito Recipe FAQs

What kind of chicken should I use for my burritos?
Absolutely! You can use grilled or shredded chicken for a delicious flavor. I recommend seasoning the chicken with spices like cumin, paprika, and garlic powder for an extra kick!

How can I store leftover burritos?
You can store leftover Seven Layer Chicken Burritos wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This method helps keep them moist and ready for quick lunches or dinners.

Can I freeze my burritos?
Very! To freeze, wrap your burritos individually in plastic wrap or foil, and then place them in an airtight container or heavy-duty freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to thaw them in the refrigerator overnight before reheating!

What if my burritos are soggy?
If your burritos become soggy, it’s likely due to a layering issue. Make sure to place drier ingredients like beans and rice on the bottom, and save guacamole and sour cream for the top. Additionally, ensure you’re not overfilling them.

Can my pets eat these burritos?
It’s best to keep burritos away from pets, especially if they contain ingredients like onions or garlic, which can be harmful to them. Stick to plain rice or chicken if you’re looking to share some love with your furry friends!

How do I make vegetarian or vegan versions?
You can easily adjust your Seven Layer Chicken Burrito by substituting the chicken with black beans, lentils, or tofu for added protein. For a complete vegan meal, opt for cashew cream in place of sour cream and skip the cheese, or use a plant-based alternative. Enjoy experimenting!