When it comes to feeding my family on a budget, chicken burritos are always a winner. Every time I make them, the whole house smells amazing, and by the time I set the pan down, everyone’s already waiting at the table. What I love most is that this recipe stretches a few simple ingredients into a meal that keeps everyone full and happy—without emptying my wallet.
Chicken burritos have become one of our go-to dinners because they check all the boxes: affordable, easy to make, and downright delicious. Plus, they’re versatile—each family member gets to load theirs up just the way they like. Some pile on the cheese, others add extra salsa, and there are always a few requests for “just a little more chicken, please!” It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together and guarantees clean plates every time.
Ingredients (Feeds the Family, Makes 6–8 Burritos)
- 2–3 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs to save money)
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown, whatever’s in the pantry)
- 1 can black beans or pinto beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes (or a couple of fresh ones if I have them)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 packet taco seasoning (or my quick homemade mix of chili powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper)
- 6–8 large flour tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a mix)
- A handful of lettuce or spinach, chopped
- Sour cream, salsa, or hot sauce for topping
How I Make Them
- Cook the rice – I usually start this first so it’s ready by the time everything else comes together.
- Season and cook the chicken – A quick sprinkle of taco seasoning and into the skillet it goes. Once it’s cooked through, I shred it up.
- Sauté the veggies – In the same pan, I add the onion and garlic, then stir in tomatoes and beans. The smell fills the kitchen, and my kids always wander in asking, “Is it almost ready?”
- Mix the filling – I combine the shredded chicken, rice, and bean mixture. This makes a hearty, flavorful base that stretches the chicken without anyone missing out.
- Assemble the burritos – Each tortilla gets filled, topped with cheese, lettuce, and a little sour cream or salsa (depending on who’s making theirs). Folding them is always a family affair—sometimes messy, but always fun!
- Optional step – If I have a few extra minutes, I’ll crisp the burritos in the skillet. It makes them golden and restaurant-style, which everyone loves.
Family-Friendly Budget Tips
- Stretch the meat – Adding rice and beans makes the burritos filling and lets me use less chicken without anyone noticing.
- Buy in bulk – Tortillas and cheese are cheaper in family packs, and they never go to waste around here.
- Make-ahead meals – I often wrap a few extra burritos in foil and freeze them. On busy nights, they’re lifesavers!
- Everyone customizes – Letting my family build their own burritos keeps picky eaters happy and dinner stress-free.
Budget-Friendly Cookbooks:
Liv B’s Vegan on a Budget: 112 Inspired and Effortless Plant-Based Recipes
Taste of Home Budget-Friendly Cookbook: 220+ recipes
Good and Cheap: Eat Well on $4/Day
Final Thoughts
Every time I serve chicken burritos, it’s a guaranteed hit at my table. They’re one of those meals where everyone lingers a little longer, laughing, talking, and going back for seconds. And for me, there’s nothing better than knowing I’ve served a meal that’s both affordable and loved by the whole family. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly recipe that feels like a treat, give these burritos a try—you might just find they become a family favorite in your home too.
Cooking Tips for the Best Burritos
Freeze smart – Leave out lettuce and sour cream when freezing burritos; add those fresh when reheating.
Warm your tortillas – Heat tortillas briefly in a skillet or microwave to make them soft and easier to fold. This prevents cracking.
Don’t overfill – It’s tempting to pack in all the goodness, but too much filling makes rolling tricky. Keep it balanced and neat.
Seal with cheese – If you crisp them in a skillet, sprinkle a little cheese at the edge before folding—it acts like edible “glue.”
Use leftovers creatively – Leftover burrito filling makes a great topping for nachos, baked potatoes, or even a quick burrito bowl the next day.
Additional Resources for Budget Friendly Recipes:
Taco Breakfast Scramble Recipe You’ll Love
Authentic Chicken & Chorizo Jambalaya Recipe You’ll Want to Make Again