High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s both healthy and satisfying, then you’ve stumbled upon the perfect recipe! These High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are a delightful twist on traditional burritos, combining tender chicken with a spicy buffalo flavor that makes every bite an adventure. The best part? They come together in just 20 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends and family. Trust me, once you try them, they’ll become a staple in your kitchen!

What makes these burritos truly special is how versatile they are. You can easily adjust the spice level to suit your taste or switch up toppings based on what you have on hand. Whether it’s for a quick lunch or a game day treat, these burritos are sure to impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 20 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those hectic evenings when time is short.
• Healthy and Wholesome: Packed with protein and low in calories, these burritos help you stay on track without sacrificing flavor.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike love the cheesy buffalo goodness—everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare the filling in advance and assemble the burritos when you’re ready to eat. Perfect for meal prep!
• Customizable: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or swap out proteins to make this dish uniquely yours.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to make these delicious burritos. You likely have most of these items already at home!

• 2 cups cooked (shredded chicken breast)
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce (mild or hot)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1/2 cup shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese
• 4 low-calorie whole wheat tortillas
• 1/4 tsp garlic powder
• 1/4 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Optional toppings: shredded lettuce, chopped tomatoes, avocado slices, light ranch dressing

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are some fun variations to keep things interesting:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Add veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Try different sauces: If buffalo sauce isn’t your thing, barbecue sauce works great too!

How to Make High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by shredding your cooked chicken breast. This step is crucial because it ensures that the chicken absorbs all those delicious flavors from the buffalo sauce mix. Whether you use rotisserie chicken, leftovers, or freshly cooked chicken breast, just make sure it’s tender enough to pull apart easily. Once shredded, place it in a large mixing bowl.

Step 2: Mix the Buffalo Sauce

In a separate small bowl, whisk together the buffalo sauce and Greek yogurt until smooth. This creamy mixture gives you that classic buffalo flavor without overwhelming richness. Don’t forget to stir in some garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper! Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot buffalo sauce based on your preference—this way everyone can enjoy it!

Step 3: Combine Chicken and Sauce

Pour that luscious buffalo mixture over your shredded chicken. Using tongs or a fork, toss everything together until each piece of chicken is coated evenly. This step ensures that those bold flavors penetrate every morsel.

Step 4: Warm the Tortillas

Next up, take your low-calorie whole wheat tortillas and warm them in the microwave for about 15–20 seconds. Warming them softens the tortillas so they’re easier to wrap without tearing—this little trick makes all the difference!

Step 5: Assemble the Burritos

Lay one tortilla flat on a clean surface and spoon a generous amount of your buffalo chicken mixture into the center. Don’t be shy with it! Top with shredded reduced-fat cheddar cheese and any optional toppings like lettuce or avocado slices for extra layers of flavor.

Step 6: Fold and Roll

Now comes the fun part—folding! Start by folding in the sides of the tortilla first, then roll from the bottom up tightly to secure all those tasty fillings inside. A good roll ensures they won’t fall apart when you dig in!

Step 7: Optional Pan Crisp

If you crave that crispy texture, lightly spray a non-stick skillet with cooking spray. Grill your burritos seam-side down over medium heat for about 1–2 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds an irresistible crunch that elevates your meal!

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Slice those beautiful burritos in half for an eye-catching presentation and serve warm! They pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, air fryer sweet potato fries, or even a chilled sparkling drink—perfect for any occasion!

Pro Tips for Making High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

Creating the perfect burrito is all about those little details! Here are some tips to help elevate your cooking and ensure a successful meal.

• Use Quality Chicken: Opt for fresh, lean chicken breast or high-quality rotisserie chicken. This ensures a tender, juicy filling that makes every bite delicious.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re concerned about the heat, start with mild buffalo sauce and gradually add more until you find your perfect balance. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without being overwhelmed by spice.

• Don’t Overfill: It can be tempting to load up your burritos, but overfilling can lead to messy wraps. Aim for just enough filling so you can roll them easily without spilling!

• Experiment with Cheese: While reduced-fat cheddar is a great choice, feel free to swap in other cheese varieties like pepper jack or mozzarella for different flavor profiles. Each cheese can add its unique twist to your burritos!

• Make Ahead: These burritos are perfect for meal prep! Prepare them in advance and store them in the fridge or freezer. They reheat beautifully and make busy nights a breeze.

How to Serve High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos

Serving these tasty burritos is as fun as making them! Get creative and set up a vibrant spread that invites everyone to dig in.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Cilantro: Adds a zesty freshness that complements the spicy buffalo flavors.
• Sliced Green Onions: Sprinkle these on top for a crunchy texture and mild onion flavor that brightens up each bite.

Side Dishes

• Air Fryer Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, these fries provide a delightful contrast to the spiciness of the burritos.
• Crisp Garden Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing balance to the rich flavors of your burritos.
• Vegetable Sticks with Hummus: Carrots, celery, and bell peppers served with hummus make for a crunchy, healthy side that pairs well with the creamy buffalo sauce.
• Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad tossed with black beans, corn, and lime juice brings additional protein and fiber while complementing the burrito’s flavors.

With these serving suggestions and pro tips, you’ll not only create delicious High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos but also impress family and friends at mealtime! Enjoy making this dish part of your regular rotation.

Make Ahead and Storage

These High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos are perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy a tasty, healthy meal throughout the week. With a few simple storage tips, you can keep your burritos fresh and ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover burritos in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• They can stay fresh for up to 3 days.
• Make sure they are completely cooled before sealing them to prevent moisture buildup.

Freezing

• To freeze, wrap each burrito tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for added protection.
• These burritos can be frozen for up to 3 months—perfect for batch cooking!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in the microwave: unwrap the burrito and place it on a microwave-safe plate. Heat for 1–2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Alternatively, reheat in an oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes until heated thoroughly. This method helps maintain that delicious crispy exterior if you opted to pan crisp them initially.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place!

Can I make High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos with different proteins?

Absolutely! While shredded chicken is used here, you can substitute it with shredded turkey or even plant-based protein options like chickpeas or tofu for a vegetarian twist.

How spicy are the High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos?

The spice level largely depends on the buffalo sauce you choose. Opt for mild buffalo sauce if you’re sensitive to heat, or go bold with hot sauce for a fiery kick!

Can I use regular cheese instead of reduced-fat cheddar?

Yes, feel free to use regular cheddar cheese if preferred; just keep in mind that it may increase the calorie content of your burritos slightly.

How do I customize my High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos?

You can easily customize these burritos by adding your favorite veggies such as bell peppers or corn. Fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions also add a delightful touch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about these High Protein Low Calorie Cheesy Buffalo Chicken Burritos as I am! They are not just quick and easy but also packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week ahead or looking for a fun game day treat, these burritos are sure to impress. Enjoy making them and don’t hesitate to invite friends over to share this deliciousness. Happy cooking!