Smothered Green Chili Burritos With Chipotle Lime Avocado Cream

Craving a burrito experience that’s a step above the rest? Look no further! These Smothered Green Chili Burritos with Chipotle Lime Avocado Cream are packed with savory, spicy, and creamy goodness. We’re taking classic comfort food and elevating it with a vibrant homemade green chili sauce and a luscious avocado crema. This recipe uses halal chicken for a wider appeal, but feel free to adapt it to your preferences. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

What You’ll Need

• 500g (1 lb) Halal Chicken Breast, Diced: Using halal chicken ensures a tender and flavorful base for our burrito filling. Dicing it allows for even cooking and easy distribution within the burrito.
• 1 cup (200g) Cooked White Rice: A fluffy bed of white rice provides a neutral base to absorb all the delicious flavors of the chili and crema. Long-grain rice works best for a good texture.
• 1 cup (240ml) Canned Black Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Black beans add a hearty, earthy element and a boost of protein. Rinsing them removes excess sodium and any starchy residue.
• 1 cup (100g) Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Halal-Certified): A generous helping of cheddar cheese adds a creamy, melty goodness. Ensure it’s halal-certified to meet dietary requirements.
• 1 Medium Onion, Finely Chopped: The foundation of our green chili sauce, the onion provides a sweet and savory base when sautéed.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Garlic adds a pungent aroma and depth of flavor to the sauce. Freshly minced garlic is always best!
• 2-3 Fresh Green Chilies (Jalapeño or Serrano), Sliced: These chilies bring the heat! Adjust the quantity based on your spice preference. Serrano peppers are hotter than jalapeños.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the onion and garlic, olive oil adds a subtle fruity flavor.
• 1 tsp (5g) Ground Cumin: Cumin provides a warm, earthy spice that complements the chilies and chicken beautifully.
• Salt and Freshly Ground Black Pepper, to Taste: Essential seasonings to enhance all the flavors.
• 2 Large Tomatillos, Husked and Rinsed: Tomatillos are the star of our green chili sauce, providing a tangy and slightly acidic flavor. Be sure to remove the papery husks before using.
• 1 Roasted Poblano Pepper, Peeled and Diced: Roasting the poblano pepper brings out its smoky sweetness. It adds a complex flavor dimension to the sauce.
• 1 cup (240ml) Vegetable Broth: Used to blend the tomatillos and poblano pepper into a smooth sauce, and to adjust the consistency.
• 1 Ripe Avocado (≈150g): The base of our creamy avocado crema. A ripe avocado will be soft to the touch and yield easily to gentle pressure.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice: Lime juice brightens the avocado crema and adds a zesty tang.
• 1 tsp (5g) Chipotle Powder (or 1 Chipotle Pepper in Adobo, Minced): Chipotle powder adds a smoky heat to the avocado crema. Alternatively, you can use a minced chipotle pepper in adobo sauce for a more intense flavor.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Water (Adjust for Consistency): Used to thin out the avocado crema to your desired consistency.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Fresh Cilantro, Chopped: Cilantro adds a fresh, herbaceous note to the avocado crema.
• Pinch of Salt (for Crema): Enhances the flavors of the avocado crema.
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves, Chopped (for Garnish): Adds a final touch of freshness and visual appeal.
• 2 tbsp (15g) Toasted Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds, for Garnish): Pepitas provide a delightful crunch and nutty flavor. Toasting them enhances their flavor.

Ingredient Substitutions

Don’t have an ingredient on hand? Here are a few simple substitutions:

• Halal Chicken: You can substitute with regular chicken breast, or even shredded cooked turkey or beef.
• Cheddar Cheese: Monterey Jack, Colby Jack, or a Mexican cheese blend would all work well.
• Tomatillos: While tomatillos are key to the authentic flavor, in a pinch, you could use a combination of green tomatoes and a squeeze of lime juice.
• Chipotle Powder: Smoked paprika can offer a similar smoky flavor, though it won’t have the same heat.

Crafting the Perfect Burrito: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until they become fragrant and translucent. This step builds the flavor base for the entire dish. Don’t rush it – properly sautéed aromatics are key!
2. Cook the Chicken: Add the diced halal chicken breast, sliced fresh green chilies (jalapeño or serrano, depending on your spice preference), ground cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper to the skillet. Cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is browned and cooked through. Ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safety. Transfer the cooked chicken mixture to a bowl and set aside.
3. Prepare the Green Chili Sauce: In the same skillet, add the husked and rinsed tomatillos, diced roasted poblano pepper, a splash of vegetable broth (about ¼ cup to start), a pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Cook for 4 minutes, allowing the tomatillos to soften slightly. Carefully transfer the mixture to a blender or food processor. Add the remaining vegetable broth (about ¾ cup) and blend until completely smooth. Return the blended sauce to the skillet, bring to a simmer, and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your liking.
4. Whip Up the Chipotle-Lime Avocado Cream: While the sauce simmers, prepare the creamy, vibrant avocado cream. In a food processor, combine the ripe avocado, freshly squeezed lime juice, chipotle powder (or minced chipotle pepper in adobo for a smokier flavor), water (start with 2 tablespoons and add more, 1 teaspoon at a time, to reach your desired consistency), chopped fresh cilantro, and a pinch of salt. Blend until the mixture is silky smooth and drizzle-ready. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Warm the Fillings: Gently warm the cooked white rice and drained and rinsed black beans separately. You can use a microwave or stovetop for this. Having warm fillings ensures a more enjoyable burrito experience.
6. Assemble the Burritos: Lay a large flour tortilla flat on a clean surface. Spread a thin line of the chipotle-lime avocado cream down the center of the tortilla. Layer ¼ cup of warm rice, ¼ cup of warm black beans, ¼ cup of the cooked chicken mixture, and a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese over the avocado cream.
7. Roll the Burritos: Fold in the sides of the tortilla towards the center, then tightly roll the burrito from the bottom up, ensuring the filling is securely enclosed.
8. Bake to Perfection: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Arrange the assembled burritos seam-side down in a baking dish. Pour the simmering green chili sauce generously over the burritos, ensuring each one is fully coated. Scatter any remaining shredded cheddar cheese on top.
9. Final Bake & Garnish: Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the sauce is bubbling and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving.
10. Plate and Serve: Carefully slide each burrito onto a warm plate. Drizzle a generous swirl of the remaining chipotle-lime avocado cream over the top. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro leaves and toasted pepitas (pumpkin seeds) for added texture, flavor, and visual appeal.

The Magic of Tomatillos in Green Chili

The vibrant green color and slightly tart flavor of tomatillos are the heart and soul of a good green chili sauce. Unlike tomatoes, which are sweet, tomatillos offer a bright acidity that cuts through the richness of the cheese and chicken. Roasting the poblano pepper beforehand adds a subtle smokiness that complements the chipotle in the avocado cream, creating a complex and layered flavor profile. Using fresh green chilies, like jalapeños or serranos, allows you to control the heat level to your preference.

Halal Considerations & Ingredient Sourcing

This recipe is designed with halal cooking in mind, utilizing halal-certified chicken and cheese. When sourcing ingredients, always check labels to ensure they meet your dietary requirements. Using high-quality ingredients, especially fresh produce, will significantly enhance the overall flavor of the dish. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of green chilies to find your perfect level of spice!

Why Smothering is Key

The “smothered” aspect of this recipe isn’t just for show! Generously coating the burritos in the green chili sauce during baking is crucial. It ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor and prevents the burritos from drying out. The sauce also helps to melt the cheese beautifully and creates a slightly crispy exterior. The baking process allows the flavors to meld together even further, resulting in a truly satisfying and comforting meal.

Spice Level Customization

This recipe is easily adaptable to your spice tolerance. For a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapeños or serranos before slicing. You can also use a milder green chili variety, like Anaheim peppers. For a spicier kick, leave the seeds in or add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the sauce. The chipotle powder in the avocado cream also contributes to the heat, so adjust the amount accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these burritos ahead of time?

Yes! You can assemble the burritos and store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if starting with cold burritos.

Can I freeze these burritos?

Yes, you can freeze unbaked burritos. Wrap them tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before baking.

What can I substitute for the cheddar cheese?

Monterey Jack, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend would all work well in this recipe.

These Smothered Green Chili Burritos with Chipotle Lime Avocado Cream are a flavor explosion in every bite! Don’t forget to save this recipe to Pinterest so you can easily make them again and again. Enjoy!

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• Author: Alyssa Bennett
• Total Time: 70 minutes
• Yield: 6 burritos 1x
• Diet: General

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Description

These Smothered Green Chili Burritos are packed with savory, spicy, and creamy goodness, featuring a homemade green chili sauce and a vibrant chipotle lime avocado cream. This recipe uses halal chicken for a wider appeal, but can be adapted to your preferences.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 500g (1 lb) Halal Chicken Breast, Diced: Provides a tender and flavorful base.
• 1 cup (200g) Cooked White Rice: A neutral base to absorb flavors.
• 1 cup (240ml) Canned Black Beans, Drained and Rinsed: Adds heartiness and protein.
• 1 cup (100g) Shredded Cheddar Cheese (Halal-Certified): Adds creamy, melty goodness.
• 1 Medium Onion, Finely Chopped: Forms the flavor base of the sauce.
• 2 Cloves Garlic, Minced: Adds pungent aroma and depth.
• 2–3 Fresh Green Chilies (Jalapeño or Serrano), Sliced: Adds heat, adjust to preference.
• 1 tbsp (15ml) Olive Oil: For sautéing aromatics.
• 1 tsp (5g) Ground Cumin: Provides warm, earthy spice.
• Salt and Pepper, to Taste: Essential seasonings.
• 2 Large Tomatillos, Husked and Rinsed: Provides tangy flavor to the sauce.
• 1 Roasted Poblano Pepper, Peeled and Diced: Adds smoky sweetness to the sauce.
• 1 cup (240ml) Vegetable Broth: Blends sauce and adjusts consistency.
• 1 Ripe Avocado (≈150g): Base for creamy avocado crema.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Freshly Squeezed Lime Juice: Brightens the avocado crema.
• 1 tsp (5g) Chipotle Powder: Adds smoky heat to the crema.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Water: Adjusts crema consistency.
• 2 tbsp (30ml) Fresh Cilantro, Chopped: Adds fresh flavor to the crema.
• Pinch of Salt (for Crema): Enhances crema flavors.
• Fresh Cilantro Leaves, Chopped (for Garnish): Adds freshness and visual appeal.
• 2 tbsp (15g) Toasted Pepitas (Pumpkin Seeds, for Garnish): Provides crunch and nutty flavor.

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Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat oil, sauté onion and garlic until fragrant.
2. Cook Chicken: Brown diced chicken with chilies, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Prepare Green Chili Sauce: Blend tomatillos, poblano, broth, and simmer.
4. Whip Avocado Cream: Blend avocado, lime juice, chipotle, water, cilantro, and salt.
5. Warm Fillings: Warm rice and beans.
6. Assemble Burritos: Layer crema, rice, beans, chicken, and cheese on a tortilla.
7. Roll Burritos: Fold and tightly roll the burrito.
8. Bake Burritos: Bake seam-side down, coated in sauce, with cheese on top.
9. Final Bake & Garnish: Bake until bubbly, then garnish with cilantro and pepitas.

Notes

For a spicier burrito, leave the seeds in the jalapeños or serranos. Generously coating the burritos in sauce is key to preventing them from drying out.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Mexican
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 burrito
• Calories: 650 kcal
• Sugar: 15 g
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Fat: 35 g
• Saturated Fat: 15 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 15 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 60 g
• Fiber: 10 g
• Protein: 30 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg