Southwest Burrito Recipe: Easy, Flavorful, and Delicious

Updated On: October 15, 2025

Southwest cuisine is vibrant, hearty, and packed with bold flavors that delight every bite. If you’ve been craving a meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with a mix of smoky, spicy, and fresh ingredients, this Southwest Burrito recipe is perfect for you.

Combining tender seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, and zesty salsa wrapped in a warm tortilla, this burrito is a crowd-pleaser for lunch, dinner, or even a quick snack. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, the flavors come together beautifully to create a mouthwatering dish with a Tex-Mex flair.

Plus, it’s easily customizable to suit your dietary preferences and spice tolerance.

Get ready to learn how to make this delicious Southwest Burrito from scratch with easy-to-follow steps, tips for perfect wraps, and ideas for variations. Don’t forget to check out some of our other tasty recipes like the Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide for a wholesome meal inspiration!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Southwest Burrito recipe is a fantastic balance of protein, fiber, and fresh ingredients that deliver a well-rounded meal. It’s:

  • Quick and easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
  • Loaded with nutrient-rich vegetables like corn, peppers, and black beans.
  • Highly versatile — you can swap proteins or go vegetarian easily.
  • Perfect for meal prep, as burritos hold up well when refrigerated or frozen.
  • Full of vibrant flavors with a smoky southwest spice blend that excites the palate.

This recipe also pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or a side of guacamole, making it a complete and satisfying meal. For more fresh and easy ideas, try our Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas.

Ingredients

  • 2 large flour tortillas (10-inch size works best)
  • 1 cup cooked and shredded chicken breast (or substitute with black beans for vegetarian)
  • 1/2 cup black beans (rinsed and drained)
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen and thawed)
  • 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
  • 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup diced green bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup diced red onion
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional for vegan or dairy-free options)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1/4 cup salsa verde or your favorite salsa
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 avocado, sliced (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon lime juice

Equipment

  • Large skillet or frying pan
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • Plate for assembling burritos
  • Aluminum foil (optional for wrapping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice the red and green bell peppers and red onion. Chop the cilantro, slice the avocado, and drain and rinse the black beans.
  2. Cook the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced bell peppers and red onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until softened.
  3. Add spices and beans: Stir in the chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the black beans and corn kernels to the skillet, stirring to combine and heat through for another 3-4 minutes.
  4. Mix in chicken and rice: Add the shredded chicken and cooked brown rice to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook until everything is warmed through, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. Warm the tortillas: While the filling is cooking, heat the tortillas in a dry skillet or microwave until soft and pliable, about 20 seconds each.
  6. Assemble the burritos: Lay a warm tortilla flat on a plate. Spoon half of the filling mixture down the center. Top with shredded cheddar cheese, fresh cilantro, salsa, avocado slices, and a drizzle of lime juice.
  7. Fold and wrap: Fold the sides of the tortilla inwards and then roll from the bottom up tightly to form a burrito. Wrap in aluminum foil if desired for easier eating or meal prep.
  8. Serve: Cut the burrito in half diagonally and serve immediately with extra salsa or guacamole on the side.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian or vegan option, omit the chicken and cheese, and add extra black beans or grilled mushrooms for protein.

  • Make it spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the filling for a fiery kick.
  • Cheese alternatives: Use vegan cheese or omit cheese completely for a dairy-free version.
  • Rice swap: Substitute brown rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different texture or lower carb option.
  • Meal prep tip: Prepare the filling in advance and store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Assemble burritos as needed.

For more comforting soup recipes that pair beautifully with this burrito, check out our Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount Per Serving
Calories 450 kcal
Protein 30 g
Carbohydrates 45 g
Fiber 10 g
Fat 12 g
Saturated Fat 4 g
Sodium 600 mg

Serving Suggestions

This Southwest Burrito pairs wonderfully with light sides that complement its bold flavors:

  • Fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette
  • Cilantro lime rice or Mexican street corn salad
  • Simple guacamole and tortilla chips for an appetizer
  • Black bean soup or other vegan soup recipes for a hearty combo

For a refreshing twist, try serving it alongside the Healthy Veggie Smoothie Recipe for Easy Daily Nutrition to balance the richness of the burrito.

Conclusion

The Southwest Burrito is a delicious and versatile dish that brings the vibrant flavors of the American Southwest right to your kitchen. With simple ingredients, bold spices, and fresh toppings, it offers a meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or just craving a flavorful wrap, this recipe is sure to impress.

Don’t hesitate to customize it to your liking — add your favorite veggies, swap proteins, or spice it up! And if you want to explore more wholesome, tasty meals, check out our fantastic collection of recipes like the Budget Bytes Recipe Thai Noodles Vegetarian and Delicious or the Active Vegetarian Recipes for Healthy and Energized Living.

Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your homemade Southwest Burrito!

📖 Recipe Card: Southwest Burrito

Description: A flavorful burrito packed with seasoned chicken, black beans, and fresh veggies. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.

Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT20M
Total Time: PT35M

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1/2 cup corn kernels
  • 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 4 large flour tortillas
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  2. Add chicken, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper; cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in black beans, corn, and tomatoes; cook for another 3 minutes.
  4. Warm tortillas in a separate pan or microwave.
  5. Layer rice, chicken mixture, cilantro, and cheese on each tortilla.
  6. Roll up the tortillas tightly to form burritos.
  7. Serve immediately or wrap in foil for later.

Nutrition: Calories: 450 kcal | Protein: 30 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 45 g

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Photo of author

Marta K

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