Why You’ll Love Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Burritos Recipe
This recipe hits several delicious notes: the crunch of the parmesan‑breadcrumb crust on the chicken, the gooey melted cheese, the savory garlic and paprika seasoning, and the crisp, toasted tortilla wrap. It tastes like a fun fusion between chicken Parmesan and a burrito, offering something a little different but totally accessible. Plus, it’s customizable — you can change the cheese, add toppings, adjust the spice level, or use gluten‑free alternatives. All of that makes it a crowd‑pleaser for both pickier eaters and anyone looking for flavor without tons of fuss.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into strips
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plain breadcrumbs
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grated parmesan cheese
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garlic powder
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paprika
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salt
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pepper
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olive oil (for pan‑frying)
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shredded mozzarella (or Monterey Jack) cheese
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red pepper flakes (optional)
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large flour tortillas
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butter (for toasting the burritos)
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fresh chopped parsley (for garnish)
Directions
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In a shallow bowl, combine the breadcrumbs, grated parmesan, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
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Dredge each chicken strip in the seasoned breadcrumb mixture, making sure each piece is fully coated.
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the chicken strips in a single layer (work in batches if needed) and cook about 3‑4 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
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Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest briefly, then chop into bite‑sized pieces.
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Lay out each flour tortilla on a clean surface. Place a layer of shredded cheese in the center of each tortilla, then add a generous portion of the crispy chicken. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes if you’re using them.
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Fold in the sides of the tortilla, then roll up from the bottom to form a tight burrito.
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Melt the butter in a clean skillet over medium heat. Place the burritos seam‑side down and toast for about 2‑3 minutes per side (until golden brown and crisp).
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Slice each burrito in half, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Servings and timing
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Servings: about 4 burritos (depending on size of tortillas and how full you make them)
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Prep Time: ~15 minutes
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Cook Time: ~30 minutes
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Total Time: ~45 minutes
Variations
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Swap the shredded cheese: Try smoked gouda, pepper jack, or sharp cheddar in place of mozzarella/Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.
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Use panko breadcrumbs or double‑dip the chicken for extra crunch.
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Add toppings inside the burrito: sliced avocado, tangy salsa, sautéed onions and peppers, or fresh spinach.
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For more heat: increase the red pepper flakes, use pepper jack cheese, or drizzle hot sauce inside before rolling.
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Make it gluten‑free: use gluten‑free breadcrumbs and gluten‑free tortillas.
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For a baked version: instead of pan‑toasting the rolled burritos, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400 °F for about 8‑10 minutes, flipping halfway.
Storage/Reheating
If you have leftovers, let the burritos cool slightly, then wrap each one tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat and keep the crispiness, either toast in a skillet over medium‑low heat until warmed through and crisp, or heat in a pre‑heated oven at 350 °F for about 10 minutes. You can also freeze the burritos: wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Microwaving is not recommended if you want to maintain the crunchy texture.
FAQs
Can I use pre‑cooked chicken in this recipe?
Yes — if you have pre‑cooked chicken strips, you can coat them with the breadcrumb‑parmesan mixture and crisp them briefly in the skillet for texture.
How can I make these burritos spicier?
Add more red pepper flakes, use pepper jack cheese, or drizzle hot sauce inside the burrito before rolling.
Are there gluten‑free substitutions for the breadcrumbs and tortillas?
Yes — gluten‑free breadcrumbs and gluten‑free tortillas are available and can be used to make this recipe gluten‑free.
Can I bake the burritos instead of pan‑toasting them?
Definitely — place rolled burritos on a baking sheet and bake at 400 °F (about 200 °C) for roughly 8‑10 minutes, flipping halfway for even crispiness.
What’s the best way to keep burritos warm for a party?
Wrap them in foil and keep in an oven set to about 200 °F (around 95 °C) until ready to serve — this keeps them warm without drying out.
Can I prepare some parts ahead of time?
Yes — you can cook the breaded chicken ahead of time and keep it warm (or refrigerate and reheat). Then assemble and toast the burritos when you’re ready to eat.
What other side dishes go well with these burritos?
They’re hearty enough to be a meal on their own, but you might serve them with a fresh green salad, seasoned sweet potato fries, tangy tomato‑avocado salsa, or even a zesty corn salad.
Can I use whole wheat or corn tortillas instead of flour?
You can use whole wheat flour tortillas. Corn tortillas may be trickier to roll into burritos and may not toast the same way, so if you try them, be careful when folding and toasting.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Yes — replace the chicken with breaded vegetable strips (such as zucchini or eggplant) or seasoned tofu strips, and proceed with the same breadcrumb‑parmesan coating and toasting method.
How do I ensure the chicken stays juicy and not dry?
Don’t overcook the strips — about 3‑4 minutes per side on medium heat is sufficient for typical strips. Also, let the chicken rest briefly before chopping so it retains juices, and avoid over‑filling the tortillas which may cause them to tear and lose texture during toasting.
Conclusion
These Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Burritos combine crunch, gooey cheese, and flavor‑packed chicken all wrapped in a warm tortilla and toasted to perfection. They’re simple enough for a weeknight, versatile enough to adapt to your preferences, and satisfying enough to feel like a treat. Whether you’re serving the family, entertaining friends, or just craving something a little different, this recipe is a great choice. Enjoy your cooking and enjoy each delicious bite!
Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Burritos
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 burritos
Description
These Crispy Parmesan Garlic Chicken Burritos are a flavorful twist on classic burritos, combining tender shredded chicken, melty cheese, and a crispy golden parmesan crust.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large flour tortillas
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine shredded chicken, mozzarella cheese, sour cream, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Mix until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Lay out the tortillas and evenly distribute the chicken mixture among them.
- Roll the tortillas tightly into burritos.
- Heat butter and olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese directly onto the skillet in a shape slightly larger than a burrito.
- Place the burrito seam-side down on top of the Parmesan and press gently.
- Cook for 2–3 minutes until the Parmesan is golden and crispy, then flip and repeat for the other side.
- Remove from heat and serve hot.
Notes
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quick and easy prep.
- You can add jalapeños or hot sauce for a spicier version.
- Serve with a side of salsa or guacamole for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 burrito
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
