Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos Recipe

ByYummy Recipes

1. Introduction

There are few comfort foods that can deliver the perfect balance of flavor, convenience, and heartiness like a burrito. When you add Buffalo chicken into the mix, that already powerful combination gets a spicy kick, a creamy richness, and a flavor profile that keeps you coming back for more. Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are a game-changer for anyone who loves food that’s bold, satisfying, and ideal for meal prep.

This recipe for Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos is one I discovered after craving something similar to my favorite wings—crispy, spicy, tangy, and creamy—but in a handheld form. One evening, after some experimentation in the kitchen, I came up with this delicious concoction that soon became a regular feature in my home. The beauty of these burritos is that you can prepare them in advance, freeze them, and have a quick, easy, and filling meal ready for any time you need it.

Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent running around with a packed schedule, or just someone who wants a tasty meal without much effort, these Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are here to save your day. By making a big batch, you not only save time, but you also enjoy the convenience of having these burritos in the freezer, ready to go at a moment’s notice. You can even add a few modifications and variations to personalize them just the way you like. If you’re craving something spicy and cheesy but want to avoid fast food, this recipe is the answer.

Buffalo sauce is the hero of this dish. It delivers a tangy, zesty punch while the gooey, melted cheese ties everything together into a deliciously comforting bite. Wrapped in a soft tortilla, the result is a burrito that combines the best of a classic comfort food with the convenience of freezer-friendly meal prep.

In this post, we’ll walk through how to make these Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos from start to finish, explaining every detail and providing tips for success. Whether you’re preparing them for a quick lunch, dinner, or even a late-night snack, these burritos are sure to become a regular in your kitchen.

2. Why You’ll Love This Recipe

When you prepare food at home, it’s easy to make things more exciting than just a simple meal. These Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are not just another boring dish—they’re packed with flavor, make-ahead convenience, and incredible versatility. Here’s why you’ll love them:

1. Perfect Balance of Spicy and Cheesy

One of the main reasons these burritos are so irresistible is the combination of Buffalo sauce and cheese. The tangy heat from the Buffalo sauce perfectly complements the creamy richness of the melted cheese. With every bite, you get that satisfying combination of heat and indulgence. The cheddar cheese and cream cheese work together to soften the intensity of the sauce, balancing out the spiciness while adding a velvety texture.

Buffalo chicken is always a fan favorite, whether you serve it on a sandwich, wings, or tacos. But when it’s wrapped up in a burrito with melted cheese and wrapped in a soft tortilla, it takes the comfort food experience to another level. You can adjust the spiciness level by adding more or less sauce, allowing you to create a burrito that suits your taste perfectly.

2. Meal Prep Convenience

Another reason these burritos will become a go-to meal is the meal prep factor. You can make these in bulk and store them in the freezer for quick lunches, dinners, or snacks. The fact that they’re freezer-friendly makes them a perfect choice for busy people who don’t want to compromise on taste. It’s an easy way to ensure that you have something delicious and filling in your freezer at all times.

Unlike store-bought frozen meals, which can often be bland or uninspiring, these homemade burritos allow you to control the ingredients and the quality of what you’re eating. Making a big batch doesn’t take much time, and once they’re frozen, you can just grab one, heat it up, and enjoy.

3. Customizable Flavor

This recipe is super versatile, meaning you can easily customize it to fit your dietary preferences and tastes. If you like things extra spicy, you can amp up the Buffalo sauce or add chopped jalapeños or a little hot sauce. If you’re in the mood for something milder, you can reduce the amount of sauce or add in more cheese for a gooey, creamy flavor.

In addition, the filling can be made even more interesting by incorporating a variety of ingredients. You can toss in some sautéed onions, peppers, or even black beans if you’re craving a more substantial veggie option.

Buffalo chicken burritos are incredibly versatile and can be easily tailored to suit both meat lovers and vegetarians. And if you have a different favorite cheese, you can easily swap out the cheddar for mozzarella, pepper jack, or even cream cheese to get your preferred cheesy texture.

4. A Satisfying Meal

A good burrito should be both satisfying and filling, and these Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos definitely tick that box. The chicken provides a hearty protein boost, while the cheese adds richness and texture. Combined with the soft tortilla, they form the perfect handheld meal that can keep you full and satisfied for hours.

If you’re looking for a meal that can fill you up but won’t leave you feeling sluggish or bloated, these burritos are a great choice. They’re substantial without being too heavy, making them the perfect option for a busy day when you need something that can keep you going. You can enjoy them for lunch, dinner, or even as a quick snack to satisfy your hunger.

5. A Fun Family Meal

These burritos are also fun to make as a family. You can set up a burrito station with various fillings, and everyone can build their own personalized burrito. It’s a great way to involve kids or guests in the cooking process, making meal time more interactive and enjoyable.

Even if you’re cooking for one, you can still have fun experimenting with the ingredients and spices, adjusting the flavors to your liking. The best part? Whether you’re making one or 20 burritos, the steps are simple enough that anyone can get involved.

3. Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this recipe is its simplicity, using a handful of key ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen or can easily find at the store. Here’s what you’ll need to make Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos:

  • 2 lbs. Chicken Breasts (boneless and skinless): You can use chicken thighs if you prefer a juicier, richer flavor. The chicken breasts are a lean option and will absorb the Buffalo sauce nicely, creating a perfect filling for the burritos.
  • 1 tablespoon Olive Oil: To sauté the chicken and prevent it from sticking to the pan.
  • 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder: Adds a savory, aromatic note to the filling.
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder: A great flavor base that works well with the other spices in the burrito.
  • 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika: Provides a slightly smoky, earthy flavor to complement the spiciness of the Buffalo sauce.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt (or to taste): Essential for balancing out the flavors.
  • 1 teaspoon Black Pepper: Adds a little heat and enhances the overall flavor.
  • 1 cup Buffalo Sauce: This is the star of the recipe. You can use store-bought Buffalo sauce or make your own. The sauce provides the signature tangy, spicy flavor that’s essential for this recipe.
  • 2 cups Shredded Cheddar Cheese: A sharp, creamy cheese that melts beautifully inside the burrito.
  • 1 cup Cream Cheese (softened): Adds richness and helps balance the spiciness of the Buffalo sauce, giving the burrito a creamy texture.
  • 1/2 cup Ranch Dressing (optional): If you prefer a creamier, more mellow flavor, ranch dressing adds a nice touch to the mixture.
  • 1 tablespoon Chopped Green Onions (optional): For a burst of freshness and a little crunch.
  • 4 Large Flour Tortillas: Use large burrito-sized tortillas for easy wrapping. If you prefer whole wheat or gluten-free tortillas, those can work too.
  • 1 tablespoon Butter: For toasting the burritos after assembling them. This step will give them a nice crispiness when you’re ready to eat them.

Substitutions:

If you need to make substitutions, here are some ideas:

  • Chicken Breasts to Chicken Thighs: Chicken thighs provide more fat and flavor, and they stay juicier.
  • Cheese: If you prefer a different cheese, you can substitute the cheddar with mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even pepper jack if you like a bit more heat.
  • Ranch Dressing: For a tangier flavor, you can replace the ranch dressing with blue cheese dressing. The richness of blue cheese pairs beautifully with the tangy heat of Buffalo sauce.

4. Preparation (Step-by-Step Instructions with Details)

Now that we’ve gathered all of our ingredients, let’s get to the fun part—preparing these Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos!

Step 1: Cook the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chicken breasts. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through. You can use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—once the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), you know the chicken is ready.

Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and set it aside to rest for a few minutes. This resting period helps retain the juices in the chicken.

Step 2: Shred the Chicken

After the chicken has rested for a few minutes, use two forks to shred it into bite-sized pieces. This is a great time to break apart the chicken into small, shredded strands, which will make it easier to wrap in the tortillas later. The shredded chicken will absorb the Buffalo sauce much better, allowing for a deliciously flavorful bite with every mouthful.

If you prefer a more finely shredded chicken, you can use a hand mixer to shred the chicken in a bowl, which will save you some time and effort. Either way, make sure the chicken is shredded evenly so it can be well-coated with the sauce.

Step 3: Prepare the Buffalo Sauce Mixture

In a large mixing bowl, combine the Buffalo sauce, cream cheese, and shredded cheddar cheese. The cream cheese should be softened so it can easily incorporate into the sauce. Use a spoon or spatula to mix everything together until smooth. If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add ranch dressing at this stage as well—this will give the mixture a mild, creamy flavor to balance out the heat of the Buffalo sauce.

Once the cheese and sauce are well combined, fold in the shredded chicken. Stir until the chicken is evenly coated with the Buffalo sauce and cheese mixture. If you want to add a little extra heat or flavor, you can toss in some chopped jalapeños, a dash of hot sauce, or even chopped green onions for added crunch and freshness.

Step 4: Assemble the Burritos

Now it’s time to fill the burritos. Take your large flour tortillas and lay them flat on a clean surface. You may want to lightly warm the tortillas in the microwave for 15-20 seconds to make them more pliable and easier to roll.

Spoon a generous amount of the chicken mixture onto the center of each tortilla, ensuring that it is evenly distributed. Be careful not to overstuff the burrito, as this can make rolling it up a bit tricky. You want enough filling to give the burrito substance, but not so much that it bursts open while wrapping.

Once the chicken mixture is placed in the center of the tortilla, fold in the sides and then roll up the burrito tightly from the bottom. You want to make sure the ends are tucked in as you roll to keep everything inside. You can also use a bit of water along the edge of the tortilla to seal it closed if needed.

Step 5: Toast the Burritos

To make these Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos even more satisfying, it’s a great idea to toast them lightly. In the same skillet where you cooked the chicken (or a fresh one if you prefer), add a tablespoon of butter and heat it over medium heat.

Once the butter is melted, place the burritos seam-side down in the skillet. Toast the burritos for 2-3 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy. This step will add an extra layer of texture to the burritos, giving them a satisfying crunch on the outside while keeping the cheesy, flavorful filling inside.

Once the burritos are toasted, remove them from the skillet and set them aside to cool for a few minutes. If you’re preparing them for freezing, make sure they’re completely cooled before wrapping them for storage.

5. Variations & Substitutions

The best part about making your own Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos is that you can get creative and customize the recipe based on your preferences or dietary restrictions. Here are a few ideas for how to switch things up:

  • Spicy Buffalo Chicken Burritos: If you love heat, go ahead and increase the spiciness of these burritos. You can add more Buffalo sauce or stir in some finely chopped jalapeños, serrano peppers, or even a bit of cayenne pepper to give the burrito an extra punch of spice.
  • Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take, swap out the chicken for roasted sweet potatoes, black beans, or tofu. The creamy texture of the sauce will still pair well with these ingredients, and you’ll have a hearty vegetarian meal that’s just as satisfying.
  • Cheese Varieties: You can switch up the type of cheese used in this recipe. Try mozzarella for a stretchy, melty cheese or pepper jack if you want to add a little extra heat. A combination of cheeses can add more depth to the flavor.
  • Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: If you prefer a creamier burrito, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of the filling before wrapping it up. It will give the burrito a cool and tangy contrast to the spicy Buffalo sauce.
  • Add Vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value of your burritos by adding some sautéed vegetables like onions, bell peppers, or corn to the chicken mixture. These will not only add flavor but also bring a beautiful color contrast to the burritos.
  • Make it Gluten-Free: If you’re following a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free tortillas to make these burritos. This swap ensures that you can enjoy all the same flavors without compromising your dietary needs.

6. How to Serve Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

These Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in several ways. Here are a few ideas on how to serve them for the best experience:

  • On Their Own: These burritos are filling enough to be enjoyed on their own. Serve them with a side of sliced veggies or a quick side salad for a fresh contrast to the richness of the burrito.
  • With Dips: Pair your burritos with ranch dressing, blue cheese dressing, or even guacamole for a creamy dip that complements the spicy Buffalo chicken. The cool creaminess of these dips balances the heat from the sauce and makes every bite even more delicious.
  • Topped with Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some chopped cilantro or green onions over the burritos before serving. This adds a burst of freshness and color that elevates the overall dish.
  • On a Plate: If you’re serving these burritos for a group or meal prepping, consider laying them out on a platter. You can garnish them with additional Buffalo sauce and a drizzle of ranch for extra flavor.

7. Recipe Tips

To make sure your Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos turn out perfectly, here are a few expert tips to keep in mind:

  • Use Rotisserie Chicken: If you’re short on time, rotisserie chicken is a lifesaver. It’s already cooked and shredded, which means you can skip the cooking process and move straight to assembling the burritos. Just make sure to remove the skin and bones before using it in your recipe.
  • Don’t Overfill the Burrito: It can be tempting to stuff the burrito with as much filling as possible, but avoid overfilling, as this can lead to a messy burrito that’s hard to roll and may fall apart. A smaller portion of filling will keep the burrito intact and easier to eat.
  • Use Fresh Tortillas: For the best results, opt for fresh flour tortillas rather than pre-packaged ones. Fresh tortillas tend to have a better texture and flavor, which makes the burrito experience even more enjoyable.
  • Add a Little Extra Sauce: If you prefer a saucier burrito, feel free to add a little extra Buffalo sauce to the filling. You can also drizzle a bit of extra sauce on top after the burrito is assembled for even more flavor.
  • Freeze Properly: If you’re making these burritos in advance, make sure they are completely cooled before freezing. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil, and store them in a zip-top freezer bag. Label the bag with the date to keep track of freshness. They should stay good in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
  • Double the Recipe: These burritos freeze wonderfully, so consider doubling the recipe if you’re making them for meal prep. Having these burritos on hand for quick meals will save you time and effort throughout the week.
  • Reheat for Perfection: To reheat the frozen burritos, you can bake them in the oven at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or microwave them for 2-3 minutes, depending on your microwave’s power. For a crispier texture, consider reheating them in a skillet with a little oil to crisp up the outside.

8. Cooking Notes

Here are some important details to keep in mind while preparing these Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos:

  • Chicken Cooking Time: When cooking your chicken, whether it’s fresh or from a rotisserie, make sure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F to ensure it’s safe to eat.
  • Cream Cheese: If your cream cheese isn’t soft enough to mix easily, microwave it for 10-15 seconds to soften it slightly before combining it with the Buffalo sauce.
  • Tortilla Size: Make sure you’re using large flour tortillas to accommodate all the filling and allow enough space for rolling. Smaller tortillas may cause the burrito to be too tight, and the filling may spill out.
  • Sealing the Burritos: When rolling up your burritos, be sure to tuck in the sides first before rolling up the bottom. This ensures the filling stays inside and the burrito stays sealed.
  • Storage Tips: If you’re making these burritos ahead of time, freeze them as soon as they’re assembled. Once they’re fully frozen, you can store them in a zip-lock bag to keep them fresh until you’re ready to enjoy them.

9. Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)

Here’s a rough breakdown of the nutritional information for one of these Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos (based on a serving size of 1 burrito):

  • Calories: 450-500
  • Protein: 30g
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Fat: 25g
    • Saturated Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 40g
    • Fiber: 3g
    • Sugar: 3g

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands used. You can adjust the ingredients (such as using low-fat cheese or tortillas) to modify the nutritional content.

10. Recipe Details

  • Prep Time: 15-20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15-20 minutes (depending on how you cook the chicken)
  • Total Time: 30-40 minutes (not including freezing time)
  • Yield: 4-6 burritos (depending on size)

11. FAQs

Here are some common questions and answers to help you out:

1. Can I use a different type of chicken?

  • Yes, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts for a juicier, more flavorful option. Just make sure to cook the thighs thoroughly before shredding them.

2. Can I make these burritos spicy?

  • Absolutely! Add extra Buffalo sauce, jalapeños, or even a dash of cayenne pepper to give these burritos more heat. You can also substitute the mild Buffalo sauce for a hotter variety if you like it spicy.

3. How do I store these burritos for later?

  • After assembling and toasting the burritos, let them cool completely. Wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then store them in a zip-top freezer bag in the freezer. They should last for up to 2-3 months.

4. How do I reheat frozen burritos?

  • To reheat, you can either microwave the burritos for 2-3 minutes or bake them at 375°F for 25-30 minutes until they’re heated through. You can also reheat them in a skillet for a crispy exterior.

5. Can I make this a vegetarian burrito?

  • Yes! You can easily swap the chicken for roasted vegetables, black beans, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. The Buffalo sauce will still provide the bold flavor you love.

6. What can I serve with these burritos?

  • Serve these burritos with ranch dressing, blue cheese, or a side salad. If you want to make it a full meal, add some crispy fries or corn on the cob on the side for a satisfying feast.

7. Can I use a different type of cheese?

  • Absolutely! You can use pepper jack cheese for a spicier kick or mozzarella for a creamier, meltier texture. A blend of cheeses can also work well for extra flavor.

12. Conclusion

These Frozen Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are a game-changer when it comes to easy, flavorful meals that are perfect for busy weeks. The combination of spicy Buffalo chicken, creamy cheese, and the satisfying crunch of a toasted burrito makes this recipe a crowd-pleaser every time. Whether you make a batch for meal prep, or you’re feeding the family for dinner, these burritos are sure to be a hit.

Not only are they customizable to suit your tastes and dietary needs, but they’re also incredibly easy to prepare, making them the perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation. Don’t forget to add your favorite dipping sauces and sides to complete the meal, and enjoy these irresistible burritos any time you need a quick and delicious bite.

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