Are you a fan of spicy flavors? If so, have you tried a Spicy Chicken Burrito? This delicious Mexican-inspired dish packs a punch with its combination of tender chicken and fiery spices. Plus, it's a quick and easy meal option for those on-the-go. The best part? It only has 440 calories, making it a guilt-free indulgence.
In addition to its spicy kick and low calorie count, a Spicy Chicken Burrito is also a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Its main ingredients include chicken, rice, beans, cheese, sour cream, and a blend of spices that give it its distinct flavor.
In this article, we'll delve deeper into everything you need to know about Spicy Chicken Burritos from its calorie count to its health benefits, and even how to make one at home.
What is a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
A Spicy Chicken Burrito is a popular Mexican dish that consists of a soft tortilla filled with tender strips of spicy chicken, rice, beans, cheese, and sour cream. The spices used in the chicken are what give the dish its heat. It is a quick and easy meal to make or order, making it a popular option for those on-the-go or looking for a satisfying snack. The dish can be served as is or paired with additional toppings like guacamole, salsa, or hot sauce for extra flavor.
What are the Ingredients in a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
A Spicy Chicken Burrito typically contains the following ingredients:
- Soft tortilla
- Spicy chicken
- Rice
- Beans
- Cheese
- Sour cream
The spices used in the chicken can vary and may include cumin, chili powder, and paprika among others.
How Many Calories are in a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
A Spicy Chicken Burrito typically contains around 440 calories. However, the calorie count can vary depending on the ingredients used and the serving size. To make a healthier version, you can opt for a smaller tortilla, skip the sour cream, and go easy on the cheese. Alternatively, if you need more calories to fuel your day, you can add toppings like avocado, pico de gallo, or even a side of chips and salsa.
How to Make a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
To make a Spicy Chicken Burrito at home, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into thin strips
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp chili powder
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 4 large tortillas
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 cup canned black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup shredded cheese
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, hot sauce
To make the burritos, start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken strips and cook for 5-7 minutes until browned on all sides. Add the chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper, and stir to coat the chicken. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the spices are fragrant and the chicken is cooked through. To assemble the burritos, start with a tortilla and add a portion of the cooked rice, black beans, spicy chicken strips, shredded cheese, and a dollop of sour cream. Roll the burrito tightly and repeat with the remaining tortillas and ingredients. Serve with your choice of toppings and enjoy!
What Makes a Spicy Chicken Burrito Spicy?
A Spicy Chicken Burrito gets its heat from the spices used in the chicken. Common spices used include chili powder, cumin, paprika, cayenne pepper, and red pepper flakes. The spiciness can be adjusted by using more or less of these spices and can be customized to your taste preferences. Additionally, adding hot sauce or salsa can add an extra kick of heat to the dish.
Can You Customize a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
Absolutely! One of the best things about a Spicy Chicken Burrito is that it can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs. For example, you can opt for a different type of meat like beef or tofu, add additional toppings like veggies or avocado, or skip ingredients like the rice or sour cream if you prefer. You can also adjust the spiciness level to your liking by using more or fewer spices or adding hot sauce.
Where to Order a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
Spicy Chicken Burritos can be found at many Mexican restaurants and fast food chains. Some popular options include Chipotle, Qdoba, Taco Bell, and Moe's Southwest Grill. Alternatively, you can also make one at home using the recipe provided above. Whichever option you choose, be sure to enjoy it with your favorite toppings and sides for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Is a Spicy Chicken Burrito Healthy?
A Spicy Chicken Burrito can be a healthy meal option, especially when made at home or customized to suit your dietary needs. It is a good source of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making it a well-rounded meal option. However, it can also be high in sodium, saturated fat, and calories depending on the ingredients used and the serving size, so it's important to enjoy in moderation and make healthier swaps where possible.
What Goes Well with a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
A Spicy Chicken Burrito pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings. Some popular options include:
- Chips and salsa or guacamole
- Black bean or corn salad
- Grilled veggies like peppers, onions, and zucchini
- Fresh fruit like pineapple or mango
- Mexican rice or refried beans
These sides complement the spice and flavor of the burrito and add additional nutrients and texture to the meal.
Are There Any Substitutions for a Spicy Chicken Burrito?
If you're not a fan of chicken or spicy flavors, there are plenty of other burrito options to choose from. Some popular substitutions include beef, pork, fish, or tofu for the protein, and a variety of veggies for added texture and flavor. You can also opt for different types of tortillas or skip the tortilla altogether and make a burrito bowl instead.
Spicy Chicken Burritos are a satisfying meal option that can be customized to suit your taste preferences and dietary needs.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Spicy Chicken Burrito
1. How many calories are in the Spicy Chicken Burrito?
The Spicy Chicken Burrito has 440 calories.
2. Is the Spicy Chicken Burrito very spicy?
The level of spiciness depends on personal preference, but the Spicy Chicken Burrito does have a good kick of heat.
3. What is included in the Spicy Chicken Burrito?
The Spicy Chicken Burrito includes seasoned rice, black beans, shredded chicken, spicy sauce, and shredded cheese.
4. Is the Spicy Chicken Burrito gluten-free?
The Spicy Chicken Burrito is not gluten-free due to the flour tortilla used to wrap the ingredients.
5. Can I customize the Spicy Chicken Burrito?
Yes, you can customize the Spicy Chicken Burrito with additional toppings or by requesting to exclude certain ingredients.