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This easy chicken bell peppers ranch recipe brings juicy chicken strips tossed with colorful bell peppers and onions, all bathed in a garlic and paprika seasoned ranch blend. Wrapped inside soft tortillas with rice, black beans, corn, cheese, and green onions, it’s a delicious and satisfying meal ready in about thirty minutes. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a freezerfriendly lunch, this recipe covers all bases with fresh flavors and satisfying textures.
I first made this when I needed a quick fix for friends visiting unexpectedly and it vanished faster than I expected. Now it’s a regular in my meal rotation whenever I want a fussfree dish everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs: Sliced into strips providing tender protein. Choose fresh chicken with a pink color and no strange smell for best quality
- Bell peppers in any colors: Add sweet crunch and vibrant color. Select firm peppers without spots or wrinkles
- Large onion: Sliced to offer sweetness and extra depth to the dish
- Olive oil: Used for sautéing adds richness. Opt for extra virgin for the best flavor
- Ranch dressing mix packet: Brings the bold ranch flavor. The brand is up to personal preference
- Garlic powder and paprika: Add warmth and layers of flavor
- Salt and pepper: Essential for rounding out the seasoning
- Large flour tortillas burrito size: Hold the filling together. Look for soft flexible ones that won’t crack
- Cooked rice white brown or cilantro lime variety: Fills out the burritos and absorbs flavors
- Black beans canned drained and rinsed: Provide plant protein and hearty texture. Choose low sodium if you prefer
- Shredded Mexican cheese blend: Melts smoothly and adds creamy richness
- Sour cream: Adds a cool tang and creaminess to finish the burritos
- Ranch dressing extra: For layering and enhancing ranch flavors
- Corn frozen canned or fresh: For sweet bursts of flavor throughout
- Green onions chopped: For freshness and a gentle bite
- Optional toppings like diced tomatoes shredded lettuce avocado or guacamole hot sauce and cilantro lime wedges: Add extra personality and flavor
Instructions
- Chicken Prep Game:
- Cut the chicken into strips about half an inch thick. Place them in a bowl and toss with the ranch seasoning packet, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate for fifteen minutes while preparing veggies and other fillings. This extra time lets the flavors really soak into the meat.
- Veggie Prep:
- Thinly slice the bell peppers and onion so they cook evenly and quickly. Arrange all fillings nearby so assembly goes as smoothly as possible later. Having everything ready makes rolling the burritos a breeze.
- Cook That Good Stuff:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium high heat. Add the marinated chicken strips letting them brown on the edges, about five to six minutes. Next add the bell peppers and onions straight into the same pan. Continue cooking for another eight to ten minutes until the chicken is cooked through, and the peppers and onions are tender but still have a bit of bite. This layered cooking builds up flavor while keeping the veggies crisp.
- Burrito Assembly Station:
- Warm the tortillas until they are soft and flexible. Lay one flat and begin layering with about a quarter cup of rice, then half a cup of the chicken and pepper mixture. Add black beans, corn, cheese, and green onions. Top with dollops of sour cream and a little extra ranch dressing if you want that creamy ranch punch in every bite.
- The Perfect Roll:
- Fold the sides of the tortilla over the filling first, then roll tightly from the bottom tucking all the fillings snugly as you go. A tight roll keeps everything inside and makes it easier to handle and eat. If eating immediately slice in half to show off the colorful layers.
- Make Them Golden:
- For an optional crispy touch, heat a clean skillet over medium heat. Place the burrito seam side down and cook for two to three minutes per side until golden brown and crisp. This step adds texture and a lovely toasty flavor that’s worth the extra few minutes.
There is something special about the combination of bell peppers and ranch seasoning that always takes me back to a hectic family kitchen full of delicious smells and anticipation. Every time I slice into a warm burrito, that nostalgic aroma fills the air making it my absolute favorite go to meal on busy nights.
Storing Leftover Burritos
Once cooled, wrap each burrito individually in foil or parchment paper to keep them fresh. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze the burritos flat and transfer them to a freezer bag. To reheat, warm in a three hundred seventy five degree oven until heated through, or use the microwave for two to three minutes.
Ingredient Swaps and Flexibility
If you do not have ranch dressing mix on hand, substitute with plain Greek yogurt spiced with herbs and a pinch of garlic salt for tang and richness. Chicken thighs provide a juicier texture compared to breasts but use whichever you prefer. For a vegetarian alternative, simply double the beans and veggies and omit the chicken to keep it hearty and filling.
Ways to Serve and Enjoy
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple salad tossed in lime juice to brighten every bite. Additional sides like salsa, guacamole, or extra ranch dressing make great dipping options. To make it fun, cut the burritos into smaller halves perfect for party appetizers or school lunchboxes.
These burritos are perfect for busy weeknights and great for meal prep. Serve warm with salsa, guacamole, or extra ranch for dipping.
Common Recipe Questions
- → What type of chicken works best for this dish?
Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs are ideal, sliced into strips to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
- → Can different bell pepper colors be used?
Yes, using a mix of red, yellow, green, or orange peppers adds vibrant color and varying sweetness to the dish.
- → How can I make the filling spicier?
Add diced jalapeños, a sprinkle of chili powder, or a dash of hot sauce to introduce heat without overpowering flavors.
- → What’s the best way to heat the tortillas for wrapping?
Warm tortillas briefly in a microwave or dry skillet to make them soft and pliable for easy rolling and folding.
- → Can these be made ahead and frozen?
Yes, assembling and freezing the burritos individually allows for easy storage and quick reheating in the oven or microwave.
- → What sides complement this dish well?
Serve alongside tortilla chips and salsa, fresh salad, or guacamole to balance the richness and add freshness.