Name: Chicken Burrito Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1/2 red onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 1 jalapeño, minced; 1 cup dry long-grain white rice (basmati or jasmine); 14 oz can black beans, strained and rinsed; 450g cooked chicken, shredded; 3 1/2 cups chicken broth; 150 grams Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese, grated; 2 tablespoons chili powder; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon oregano; 1/2 teaspoon sea salt; 1 cup corn kernels, frozen; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; Cilantro, to serve; Green onion, to serve

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If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone together, look no further than this Chicken Burrito Casserole! This recipe has become a favorite in my house, and it’s easy to see why. It’s loaded with flavors, packed with wholesome ingredients, and makes for a comforting meal that suits any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a busy weeknight dinner or hosting friends for a fun gathering.

This casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or whatever you have on hand. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep; just make a big batch, and you’ll have leftovers to enjoy throughout the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With just one baking dish and minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
Family-Friendly: The combination of chicken, beans, and cheese makes it a hit with both kids and adults alike.
Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
Flavorful Ingredients: Each bite bursts with flavors from spices and fresh veggies that make this casserole truly special.
Healthy and Nourishing: Packed with protein, fiber, and plenty of veggies, this dish is both satisfying and nourishing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Chicken Burrito Casserole! These items are not only easy to find but also come together beautifully to make a hearty meal.

1/2 red onion, diced
1 red bell pepper, diced
1 jalapeño, minced
1 cup dry long-grain white rice, basmati or jasmine
2 tablespoons chili powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon sea salt
1 cup corn kernels, frozen
14oz can black beans, strained and rinsed
450g cooked chicken, shredded (6 cups or 3 chicken breasts)
3 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
2 tablespoons tomato paste
150 grams Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese, grated
Cilantro, to serve
Green onion, to serve

Variations

The beauty of this Chicken Burrito Casserole lies in its flexibility! Feel free to get creative based on your preferences or what you have at home.

Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option!
Change up the vegetables: Add in your favorite veggies like zucchini or spinach for extra nutrition.
Spice it up: If you love heat, toss in some extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce!
Cheese alternatives: Use dairy-free cheese if you’re looking for a lactose-free option.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because it ensures that everything cooks evenly. If you don’t already have cooked chicken on hand, you can bake some chicken breasts now—just about 25 minutes should do the trick. Once they’re done, let them cool before shredding into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Mix Your Veggies and Rice

In a large baking dish (a 9 x 13 inch works perfectly), combine your diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed. This blend sets the flavor base for your casserole!

Step 3: Combine Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth. Pour this flavorful mixture over your rice and veggie blend in the baking dish. It’s important because it will hydrate the rice as it cooks!

Step 4: Add Chicken & Beans

Now it’s time to add in the shredded chicken along with the black beans and corn. Give everything one final stir until well combined. This step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into the oven for about 50–60 minutes. Keep an eye on it—the key here is making sure all of that liquid gets absorbed into the rice!

Step 6: Melt That Cheese!

Once baked perfectly, remove the dish from the oven and take off that foil. Sprinkle your grated cheese over the top generously! Put it back in the oven for another 5–10 minutes until melted and slightly golden—trust me; this part is heavenly!

Step 7: Serve It Fresh

Take out your Chicken Burrito Casserole from the oven but allow it to cool slightly before serving. Top each serving with fresh cilantro and green onions as desired. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Creating the perfect Chicken Burrito Casserole is easy with a few simple tips to elevate your dish!

Prep Ahead: Prepare your ingredients in advance, such as chopping vegetables and shredding chicken. This will save you time during the cooking process and make meal prep a breeze.
Flavor Boost: Consider adding extra spices or herbs like smoked paprika or fresh cilantro to enhance the flavor profile of your casserole. This can give your dish a unique twist that will impress your family and friends.
Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese! While Monterey Jack and Havarti are delicious, you could also try pepper jack for some heat or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you prefer.
Vegetable Variations: Feel free to mix in other veggies such as zucchini, spinach, or diced tomatoes. This not only adds more nutrition but also gives you the freedom to customize the casserole according to your taste preferences.
Storage Tips: If you’re making this dish ahead of time, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can easily reheat portions in the microwave or oven for a quick meal later on.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving Chicken Burrito Casserole is all about presentation and complementing flavors! Here are some ideas to make your meal even more delightful.

Garnishes

Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color, making each bite even more enjoyable.
Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop on top brings creaminess that balances the spices beautifully.
Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the casserole just before serving brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zest.

Side Dishes

Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides freshness that complements the rich casserole.
Guacamole & Tortilla Chips: The creamy texture of guacamole paired with crispy tortilla chips makes for a fun appetizer or side dish alongside the casserole.
Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features corn, lime juice, cilantro, and chili powder — it’s sweet, spicy, and pairs perfectly with your burrito casserole.
Refried Beans: Hearty refried beans are a traditional side that adds protein and richness to your meal while enhancing those delicious Mexican flavors.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your Chicken Burrito Casserole to its fullest! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze and ensuring you have delicious, nutritious meals ready to go.

Storing Leftovers

Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
Transfer leftovers into an airtight container.
Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly with plastic wrap and foil.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Be sure to label with the date!

Reheating

For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes until heated through.
Alternatively, microwave individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty dish!

Can I use a different type of cheese in my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! While Monterey Jack and Havarti are great choices, feel free to experiment with your favorite melting cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick.

How can I make my Chicken Burrito Casserole spicier?

If you love heat, try adding more jalapeños or include diced green chilies. You can also top your casserole with spicy salsa before serving!

What can I serve with Chicken Burrito Casserole?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips. You could also serve it alongside guacamole or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.

How long does Chicken Burrito Casserole last in the fridge?

Your Chicken Burrito Casserole will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Burrito Casserole as much as I do! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re meal prepping or looking for a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!