Seven Layer Chicken Burritos Recipe for the Ultimate

Posted on April 26, 2025 · By Elisa

Easy Dinner Recipes Your Family will Love: Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

When you are craving something hearty, flavorful, and easy to make, Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are the perfect solution. This recipe takes all the classic flavors you love in a burrito and layers them into a satisfying handheld meal that bursts with taste in every bite. Featuring tender shredded chicken, seasoned rice, creamy beans, fresh veggies, melty cheese, and zesty sauces, these burritos are not just filling but also fun to assemble. Whether you are planning a family dinner, a casual get-together, or simply want to spice up your weekly meal prep, Seven Layer Chicken Burritos deliver maximum flavor with minimum effort.

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are great for busy weeknights or for hosting a laid-back taco night with friends. Because they are fully customizable, you can easily adjust each layer to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Furthermore, they reheat beautifully, making them a smart choice for leftovers. Each burrito is like a complete meal wrapped into a soft, warm tortilla, making them an instant hit with kids and adults alike. Once you taste how delicious these burritos are, you will want to add them to your regular dinner rotation.

What Are Seven Layer Chicken Burritos?

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are exactly what they sound like: a flavorful combination of seven delicious ingredients carefully layered into a soft tortilla. Unlike a traditional single-filling burrito, this version ensures you get a variety of textures and flavors with every bite. Typically, the seven layers include seasoned chicken, cooked rice, refried or whole beans, shredded cheese, fresh lettuce, diced tomatoes, and a creamy component such as sour cream or guacamole. Some variations even add salsa, jalapeños, or additional vegetables to kick the flavor up a notch.

These burritos offer everything you want in a meal—protein, fiber, creaminess, crunch, and spice—without the need for complicated cooking techniques. They can be enjoyed warm right after assembling or prepared ahead of time for quick and easy lunches. Because the ingredients are so versatile, you can make your Seven Layer Chicken Burritos as mild or as spicy as you like. Moreover, they are perfect for feeding a crowd since you can easily set up a burrito bar and let everyone create their own masterpiece.

Ingredients for Seven Layer Chicken Burritos (With Quantities & Weights)

To create these mouthwatering Seven Layer Chicken Burritos, you will need the following ingredients:

  • 2 cups (about 300g) cooked, shredded chicken
  • 1 cup (about 200g) cooked rice (white or Spanish-style)
  • 1 can (15 oz or 425g) refried beans or whole black beans, drained
  • 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded Mexican blend cheese
  • 1 cup (about 100g) shredded lettuce
  • 1 cup (150g) diced tomatoes
  • ½ cup (120g) sour cream or guacamole
  • 6–8 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)
  • Optional additions: sliced jalapeños, salsa, chopped cilantro, hot sauce

Simple, accessible ingredients come together to create a dish that feels exciting and fresh while still being easy to prepare.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

Having the right tools on hand makes assembly and cooking much faster. You will need a medium saucepan for warming the beans, a skillet for heating the tortillas, a small bowl for mixing any sauces or seasoning, a sharp knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables, a large spoon or spatula for spreading ingredients, and foil or parchment paper if you want to wrap the burritos tightly for storage or transport.

How to Make Seven Layer Chicken Burritos Step-by-Step

First, prepare all your ingredients and set up an assembly line. Start by cooking and shredding the chicken if you have not already done so. Warm the cooked rice and the beans separately in small saucepans over medium heat until heated through. If you like, you can season the rice with a little lime juice, cumin, or chopped cilantro to boost the flavor even more.

Next, warm the flour tortillas. You can do this by placing them one at a time in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Now it is time to assemble. Place a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center, leaving a little space at the edges for easier rolling. Add a layer of cooked rice, followed by a generous scoop of shredded chicken. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top, then add shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. Finally, dollop sour cream or guacamole across the top.

Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. If you like, you can wrap the burrito in foil to help it hold its shape or lightly grill it in a skillet for a few minutes to seal and crisp the outside. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and fillings until all the ingredients are used.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

To ensure your Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are restaurant-quality, follow a few simple tips. First, do not overfill the burrito. It is tempting to pile on the toppings, but overstuffed burritos are hard to roll and often fall apart. Use moderate amounts and distribute the fillings evenly.

Always warm your tortillas before filling. Cold tortillas are stiff and prone to tearing, but a warm tortilla is flexible and easy to roll. For maximum flavor, season your chicken well with a spice blend or even a simple taco seasoning. Adding a squeeze of lime juice over the fillings right before rolling can brighten all the flavors beautifully. Lastly, if you want burritos that travel well or stay together nicely, consider wrapping them tightly in foil immediately after assembling.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

Even a simple recipe like Seven Layer Chicken Burritos has a few potential pitfalls. One major mistake is using tortillas that are too small. You need large, burrito-sized tortillas to comfortably hold all seven layers without tearing. Another mistake is forgetting to drain your beans well if using whole beans. Excess moisture can make the burrito soggy.

Not balancing the layers can also cause problems. For example, using too much wet filling like sour cream without enough rice or beans can lead to a burrito that falls apart when you eat it. Aim for a good mix of creamy, crunchy, and hearty components. Lastly, rushing the assembly process can lead to uneven burritos. Take a few extra minutes to build them carefully for the best results.

Serving and Presentation Ideas for Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

Presentation always enhances the eating experience, even for casual dishes like burritos. Serve your Seven Layer Chicken Burritos sliced in half on a diagonal for a colorful, layered look. Arrange them on a platter with small bowls of salsa, sour cream, guacamole, and extra jalapeños for dipping and topping.

If you are hosting a party or a burrito night, create a DIY burrito bar with all the layers in separate bowls. Let guests customize their own burritos to their liking. Garnishing the platter with lime wedges, cilantro sprigs, and sliced avocados adds a fresh and festive touch.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers Properly

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos store very well, making them perfect for meal prepping. Wrap each burrito tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will stay fresh for up to three days.

To reheat, remove any foil and microwave the burrito on a microwave-safe plate for about one to two minutes, flipping halfway through. For the best texture, reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, which helps keep the tortilla soft and the fillings warm without making them soggy.

Food and Drink Pairings (Non-Alcoholic Only)

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and drinks. Serve them with a side of Mexican-style street corn, a simple cucumber salad, or even homemade tortilla chips and salsa. For drinks, sparkling lime water, hibiscus tea, or a cold glass of lemonade are perfect complements.

If you want something richer, a creamy horchata pairs beautifully with the bold, spicy flavors of the burrito. Choosing light, refreshing sides and drinks helps balance the hearty richness of the burrito.

Variations and Ingredient Swaps for Seven Layer Chicken Burritos

The beauty of Seven Layer Chicken Burritos lies in their adaptability. You can easily swap shredded beef, pulled pork, or even seasoned ground turkey for the chicken. Use brown rice, cilantro lime rice, or even quinoa if you want a different base.

Instead of refried beans, try using black beans, pinto beans, or a mixture of beans and corn. Swap the sour cream for a spicy chipotle crema, or add sliced avocado instead of guacamole. If you are looking for a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or grilled vegetables.

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos FAQ: Your Top Questions Answered

Can I freeze these burritos?
Yes, assemble the burritos, wrap them tightly, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How spicy are these burritos?
As written, they are mild. You can easily adjust the spice by adding jalapeños, hot sauce, or spicy salsa.

Can I make these burritos ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare and refrigerate them up to a day ahead. Reheat just before serving for the best texture.

What other toppings can I add?
Feel free to add chopped olives, diced red onions, shredded cabbage, or crumbled queso fresco for more layers of flavor.

Estimated Calories per Serving

Each Seven Layer Chicken Burrito contains approximately 450 to 500 calories depending on the specific ingredients and portions used. Adjustments like low-fat cheese or skipping sour cream can lower the calorie count if needed.

Conclusion: Why These Seven Layer Chicken Burritos Are a Must-Try

Seven Layer Chicken Burritos are the ultimate combination of convenience, flavor, and versatility. Packed with delicious layers of seasoned chicken, creamy beans, hearty rice, crisp veggies, melty cheese, and rich sauces, they are a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Whether you need an easy dinner, a satisfying lunch, or a fun meal to share with friends, these burritos deliver big on flavor with minimal stress. Try making them for your next gathering or meal prep session, and you will see why they quickly become a favorite. Share this recipe with your family and friends and subscribe to our blog for even more easy, flavorful meals everyone will love.

📌 Seven Layer Chicken Burritos Recipe Card

  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Serves: 6–8 burritos
  • Calories per serving: 450–500
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Seven Layer Chicken Burritos Recipe for the Ultimate Flavor Explosion


  • Author: Elisa
  • Total Time: 25
  • Yield: 8 1x

Description

Make these Seven Layer Chicken Burritos packed with seasoned chicken, rice, beans, veggies, and cheese. Perfect for easy dinners!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (about 300g) cooked, shredded chicken

  • 1 cup (about 200g) cooked rice (white or Spanish-style)

  • 1 can (15 oz or 425g) refried beans or whole black beans, drained

  • 1 ½ cups (170g) shredded Mexican blend cheese

  • 1 cup (about 100g) shredded lettuce

  • 1 cup (150g) diced tomatoes

  • ½ cup (120g) sour cream or guacamole

  • 68 large flour tortillas (10-inch size)

  • Optional additions: sliced jalapeños, salsa, chopped cilantro, hot sauce


Instructions

First, prepare all your ingredients and set up an assembly line. Start by cooking and shredding the chicken if you have not already done so. Warm the cooked rice and the beans separately in small saucepans over medium heat until heated through. If you like, you can season the rice with a little lime juice, cumin, or chopped cilantro to boost the flavor even more.

Next, warm the flour tortillas. You can do this by placing them one at a time in a dry skillet over medium heat for about 30 seconds per side until soft and pliable. Alternatively, you can wrap a stack of tortillas in foil and warm them in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes.

Now it is time to assemble. Place a warm tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a spoonful of refried beans down the center, leaving a little space at the edges for easier rolling. Add a layer of cooked rice, followed by a generous scoop of shredded chicken. Sprinkle a handful of shredded cheese on top, then add shredded lettuce and diced tomatoes. Finally, dollop sour cream or guacamole across the top.

 

Fold the sides of the tortilla inward over the filling, then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito. If you like, you can wrap the burrito in foil to help it hold its shape or lightly grill it in a skillet for a few minutes to seal and crisp the outside. Repeat the process with the remaining tortillas and fillings until all the ingredients are used.

Notes

Even a simple recipe like Seven Layer Chicken Burritos has a few potential pitfalls. One major mistake is using tortillas that are too small. You need large, burrito-sized tortillas to comfortably hold all seven layers without tearing. Another mistake is forgetting to drain your beans well if using whole beans. Excess moisture can make the burrito soggy.

 

Not balancing the layers can also cause problems. For example, using too much wet filling like sour cream without enough rice or beans can lead to a burrito that falls apart when you eat it. Aim for a good mix of creamy, crunchy, and hearty components. Lastly, rushing the assembly process can lead to uneven burritos. Take a few extra minutes to build them carefully for the best results.

  • Prep Time: 15
  • Cook Time: 10
  • Category: DINNER
  • Cuisine: AMERICAIN

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 8
  • Calories: 500

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