Make Ahead Chicken Burritos Freezer Meal (Crispy & Baked)

Name: Make Ahead Chicken Burritos Freezer Meal (Crispy & Baked)
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 8
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 8 large burrito-size flour tortillas; 2 cups cooked shredded chicken; 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup cooked long-grain white rice, cooled; 1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese; 1/2 cup thick-style salsa, excess liquid drained; 1 tablespoon taco seasoning

Learn how to make the best make ahead chicken burritos freezer meal. Crispy on the outside, cheesy on the inside, and perfect for quick weeknight dinners.

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By Amelia Aug 17, 2026

Make Ahead Chicken Burritos Freezer Meal (Crispy & Baked)

Prep Time 15 mins

Cook Time 20 mins

Servings 8

Recipe note: cooking times can vary by equipment and ingredient size. Use the visual cues in the instructions and adjust seasoning to taste.

Ingredients

8 large burrito-size flour tortillas
2 cups cooked shredded chicken
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup cooked long-grain white rice, cooled
1.5 cups shredded Monterey Jack or Cheddar cheese
1/2 cup thick-style salsa, excess liquid drained
1 tablespoon taco seasoning

Step-by-Step Method

Prepare the Burrito Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, cooled white rice, shredded cheese, thick salsa, and taco seasoning. Mix until fully combined. Make sure all ingredients are completely cooled before assembling.

Warm the Tortillas

Stack the flour tortillas and wrap them in a damp paper towel. Microwave for 15-20 seconds until soft and pliable. This prevents them from cracking or tearing while rolling.

Assemble and Roll the Burritos

Place about 1/2 cup of the chicken filling in the center of a tortilla. Fold the left and right sides over the filling, then roll tightly from the bottom up to seal the burrito.

Bake (For Immediate Serving)

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the burritos seam-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the tortillas are golden brown and crispy.

Freeze for Later

Let the burritos cool completely. Wrap each burrito individually in aluminum foil or parchment paper. Place the wrapped burritos in a large zip-top freezer bag, press out the air, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I add sour cream or guacamole inside the burrito before freezing?

No, it is highly recommended to avoid adding watery ingredients like sour cream, lettuce, or fresh guacamole before freezing. They do not freeze or reheat well and will make your burrito soggy. Serve them as fresh toppings on the side instead.

How long do these chicken burritos last in the freezer?

When wrapped tightly in foil or parchment paper and stored in a heavy-duty freezer bag, these burritos will stay fresh and delicious for up to 3 months.

Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?

Absolutely! Using shredded rotisserie chicken is a shortcut that saves tons of time and adds great flavor to the filling.

How do I prevent the tortilla from tearing while rolling?

Cold tortillas are stiff and tear easily. Always warm your tortillas in the microwave for 15 to 20 seconds between damp paper towels before rolling. This makes them soft, stretchy, and easy to roll.