Meal prep magic: how to freeze chicken burritos for quick and easy weeknight dinners

Introduction:

Freezing chicken burritos is a brilliant culinary hack that allows you to enjoy delicious, homemade meals in a matter of minutes. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week, stocking up for unexpected guests, or simply craving a quick and easy dinner, this chicken burrito recipe to freeze is your go-to solution.

Ingredients for the Perfect Chicken Burrito

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 packet taco seasoning
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped bell pepper
• 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
• 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 (15-ounce) can corn, drained
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 10 large flour tortillas

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Cook the Chicken:

Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Remove from heat and shred the chicken using two forks.

2. Prepare the Filling:

In a separate skillet, sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened. Stir in the taco seasoning and cook for 1 minute. Add the cilantro, black beans, corn, and shredded chicken. Cook until heated through.

3. Assemble the Burritos:

Lay out a flour tortilla on a flat surface. Spread a generous amount of the filling down the center of the tortilla. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.

4. Roll and Wrap:

Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling, then roll it up tightly. Wrap the burrito in aluminum foil or plastic wrap.

5. Freeze:

Place the wrapped burritos in a single layer in a freezer-safe container or bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

Microwave:

Unwrap the frozen burrito and microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through.

Oven:

Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Unwrap the frozen burrito and place on a baking sheet. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Meal Prep Perfection

Freezing chicken burritos is an excellent way to meal prep for the week. Here are some tips:

• Cook in Bulk: Cook a large batch of chicken and freeze it in individual portions. This will save you time when assembling the burritos.
• Pre-Shred Cheese: Shred a block of cheddar cheese and freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. This will make assembling the burritos a breeze.
• Label and Date: Clearly label and date the frozen burritos so you know what’s inside and when they were frozen.

Variations and Substitutions

• Chicken: Instead of chicken breasts, you can use ground beef, turkey, or shrimp.
• Beans: Substitute black beans for pinto beans, kidney beans, or a mix of beans.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the filling, such as zucchini, mushrooms, or jalapeños.
• Cheese: Use a different type of cheese, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or pepper Jack.
• Tortillas: Whole-wheat or gluten-free tortillas can be used instead of flour tortillas.

Health Benefits

Chicken burritos are a nutritious and satisfying meal. They provide:

• Protein: Chicken is a lean protein that helps build and repair tissues.
• Fiber: Beans and corn are good sources of fiber, which promotes digestive health.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, and potassium.

Takeaways: A Freezer-Friendly Culinary Delight

Freezing chicken burritos is an ingenious way to enjoy delicious, homemade meals on demand. With a little prep work, you can create a stockpile of freezer-friendly burritos that will save you time and energy when you need them most. So, get ready to elevate your mealtime routine with this versatile and convenient chicken burrito recipe to freeze.

Frequently Discussed Topics

1. How long can I freeze chicken burritos?

Frozen chicken burritos can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

2. Can I freeze burritos without cooking the chicken?

No, it’s important to cook the chicken before freezing the burritos.

3. How do I reheat frozen burritos without a microwave or oven?

You can reheat frozen burritos in a skillet over low heat. Place the frozen burrito in the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until heated through.