Copycat Del Taco Chicken Burrito
There’s something deeply satisfying about recreating your favorite fast-casual order at home, and this copycat Del Taco chicken burrito hits every nostalgic note. The combination of perfectly seasoned chicken, creamy refried beans, and that signature Del Taco flavor profile creates a burrito that’s somehow both familiar and fresh.
How to Make the Perfect Copycat Del Taco Chicken Burrito at Home
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tastes just like the original with seasoned chicken and that classic Del Taco flavor blend
- Easy to customize with your favorite toppings and heat level preferences
- Perfect for meal prep – make a batch and wrap individually for quick weeknight dinners
💚 If you love copycat Del Taco recipes, you’ll also love this Copycat Del Taco Beer Battered Fish Tacos.
What You’ll Need
- boneless skinless chicken thighs — cut into bite-sized pieces
- cayenne pepper — optional, for heat
- flour tortillas — 10-inch
- refried beans — 15 oz, warmed
- Mexican rice — cooked and cooled slightly
- diced tomatoes — drained
- fresh cilantro — chopped
- hot sauce — optional
Before You Start Cooking
A few things that make this recipe work:
- ► Don’t overfill the burritos – less filling makes them easier to roll and less likely to tear
- ► Let the rice cool slightly before assembling so it doesn’t make the tortilla soggy
- ► Drain excess liquid from tomatoes and other wet ingredients to prevent soggy burritos
Easy Ingredient Swaps
| Instead of | Try This | When To Swap |
|---|---|---|
| chicken thighs | chicken breast or ground chicken | Adjust cooking time accordingly for different cuts. |
| refried beans | black beans or pinto beans | Use whole beans for more texture and freshness. |
| cheddar cheese | Monterey Jack or Mexican blend cheese | These melt better and have a milder flavor. |
| flour tortillas | whole wheat or spinach tortillas | Great for adding extra nutrition and color. |
| Mexican rice | cilantro lime rice or plain white rice | Use whatever rice you have on hand. |
| sour cream | Greek yogurt or crema | Greek yogurt adds protein while crema is more authentic. |
How To Make Copycat Del Taco Chicken Burrito
Season the chicken
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Toss the chicken pieces with this seasoning blend until evenly coated.
Cook the chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove from heat and set aside.
Warm the tortillas
Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side, or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds until warm and pliable.
Assemble the burritos
Lay each tortilla flat and spread about 1/3 cup refried beans down the center, leaving 2 inches on each side. Layer with rice, seasoned chicken, cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
Roll the burritos
Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in both sides. Roll tightly from bottom to top, keeping the filling contained. Wrap in foil if desired.
Optional sear
For extra crispiness, heat the same skillet over medium heat and place burritos seam-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and repeat.
Pro Tips For The Best Results
- Don’t overfill the burritos – less filling makes them easier to roll and less likely to tear
- Let the rice cool slightly before assembling so it doesn’t make the tortilla soggy
- Drain excess liquid from tomatoes and other wet ingredients to prevent soggy burritos
- Warm the refried beans with a splash of chicken broth to make them more spreadable
For the best taste, use this (this Copycat Del Taco Secret Sauce adds the perfect finishing touch) Copycat Del Taco Secret Sauce.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
- Using cold tortillas that crack when rolling — Always warm tortillas before assembling to make them pliable and prevent tearing
- Adding too much liquid from wet ingredients — Drain tomatoes, onions, and other wet toppings thoroughly before adding to prevent soggy burritos
- Overstuffing the burritos — Use about 3/4 cup total filling per burrito to ensure they roll properly and stay closed
- Not seasoning the chicken enough — Be generous with the spice blend and let it cook with the chicken for maximum flavor development
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
- Cook and season the chicken up to 3 days ahead, store covered in the refrigerator
- Assemble burritos completely, wrap in foil, and freeze for up to 3 months
- Keep assembled burritos in the fridge for up to 2 days before serving
- Prep all toppings and store separately in the fridge for easy assembly later
What To Serve With Copycat Del Taco Chicken Burrito
- Serve with crispy tortilla chips and fresh guacamole for a complete Mexican meal
- Add a side of Mexican street corn for extra indulgence and authentic flavors
- Pair with a simple green salad dressed with lime vinaigrette to balance the richness
- Serve with pickled jalapeños and extra hot sauce for those who like more heat
Delicious Variations To Try
- Breakfast Burrito Version: Replace rice with hash browns and add scrambled eggs for a morning twist on this classic
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute seasoned black beans or grilled vegetables for the chicken, keeping all the same spices
- Spicy Version: Add diced jalapeños, extra cayenne, and pepper jack cheese for serious heat lovers
For a different protein twist, try this Sunday Stash Chicken Burrito Bowl with the same seasoned chicken but served bowl-style instead of wrapped.
More Copycat Recipes
Love this recipe? Here are a few more of my favorites you will want to try:
Copycat Del Taco Secret Sauce | The perfect creamy tangy sauce that tastes exactly like Del Taco’s signature condiment! Ready in under 15 minutes with simple pantry ingredients!
Copycat Del Taco Beer Battered Fish Tacos | Crispy beer-battered fish with authentic Del Taco flavors in every bite! These homemade fish tacos rival the restaurant original!
Copycat Chilis Honey Chipotle Chicken | Sweet and spicy honey chipotle chicken that tastes just like Chili’s famous dish! Perfect grilled chicken ready in under 30 minutes!
Copycat Cracker Barrel Glazed Meatloaf | Comfort food meatloaf with that signature Cracker Barrel glaze everyone loves! Easy weeknight dinner that tastes like the restaurant classic!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken thighs stay more tender and juicy. If using breast, cook just until done to avoid drying out.
How do I keep burritos from getting soggy?
Drain all wet ingredients well, let hot ingredients cool slightly, and don’t overfill the burritos.
Can I freeze these burritos?
Absolutely! Wrap individually in foil and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.
What’s the best way to reheat frozen burritos?
Remove foil, wrap in damp paper towel, and microwave for 2-3 minutes, or bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes.
Can I make these ahead for meal prep?
Yes, assemble and wrap in foil. Store in fridge for 2 days or freeze for longer storage.
What type of rice works best?
Mexican rice or cilantro lime rice work great, but plain white or brown rice will work too.
How do I prevent the tortilla from tearing?
Warm the tortillas first and don’t overfill. Leave 2 inches on each side when adding filling.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Lettuce, bell peppers, or jalapeños work well. Just make sure to drain any excess moisture first.
Ready To Make Copycat Del Taco Chicken Burrito?
This copycat Del Taco chicken burrito brings all those familiar fast-food flavors right into your kitchen, where you can customize every bite to your liking. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just craving that specific taste memory, these burritos deliver every time.
Copycat Del Taco Chicken Burrito
By At The Sunday Table
There’s something deeply satisfying about recreating your favorite fast-casual order at home, and this copycat Del Taco chicken burrito hits every nostalgic note. The combination of perfectly seasoned chicken, creamy refried beans, and that signature Del Taco flavor profile creates a burrito that’s somehow both familiar and fresh.
Ingredients
Instructions
-
1
Season the chicken
In a small bowl, combine chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne. Toss the chicken pieces with this seasoning blend until evenly coated.
-
2
Cook the chicken
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seasoned chicken and cook for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and slightly crispy on the edges. Remove from heat and set aside.
-
3
Warm the tortillas
Heat tortillas in a dry skillet for 30 seconds per side, or wrap in damp paper towels and microwave for 30 seconds until warm and pliable.
-
4
Assemble the burritos
Lay each tortilla flat and spread about 1/3 cup refried beans down the center, leaving 2 inches on each side. Layer with rice, seasoned chicken, cheese, sour cream, tomatoes, onion, and cilantro.
-
5
Roll the burritos
Fold the bottom edge of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in both sides. Roll tightly from bottom to top, keeping the filling contained. Wrap in foil if desired.
-
6
Optional sear
For extra crispiness, heat the same skillet over medium heat and place burritos seam-side down. Cook for 2-3 minutes until golden brown, then flip and repeat.
Notes
- ► Don’t overfill the burritos – less filling makes them easier to roll and less likely to tear
- ► Let the rice cool slightly before assembling so it doesn’t make the tortilla soggy
- ► Drain excess liquid from tomatoes and other wet ingredients to prevent soggy burritos
- ► Warm the refried beans with a splash of chicken broth to make them more spreadable
Nutrition Per Serving
Hey, I’m Rachel — Orlando mom, home cook, and believer that the best meals are simple, nourishing, and made with love. At The Sunday Table is my little corner of the internet where comfort food meets real life.
