Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting and delicious meal that the whole family will love, this Chicken Burrito Casserole is just the ticket! It’s packed with flavors and textures that make it a favorite in our home. Not only is it easy to whip up after a busy day, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want a cozy dinner for two, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

What I adore about this Chicken Burrito Casserole is how versatile it is. It’s great for weeknight dinners when time is tight, and it’s equally suitable for family gatherings or potluck events. Plus, with all those wholesome ingredients, you’re serving up nourishment with every bite!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to make: With just one baking dish required, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tasty layers of chicken, rice, and cheese.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep—just assemble it ahead of time and bake when you’re ready.
• Flavor-packed: The combination of spices gives this casserole an irresistible taste that will have everyone coming back for seconds.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delightful Chicken Burrito Casserole. You probably have many of these items in your pantry already!

For the Casserole

• 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

To Serve

• Cilantro, to serve
• Green onion, to serve

Variations

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is so flexible! You can easily adapt it to suit your tastes or what ingredients you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or tofu instead of chicken for different flavors.
• Add more veggies: Toss in zucchini, spinach, or any other vegetables you love for extra nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more jalapeño or even some diced green chiles!
• Make it cheesy: Try different types of cheese like pepper jack or cheddar for a unique twist.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first! Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you don’t already have cooked chicken on hand, pop your chicken breasts in the oven now. Bake them for about 25 minutes until they’re fully cooked through. Once done, let them cool a bit before shredding them into bite-size pieces. This step ensures you have tender, juicy chicken in your casserole.

Step 2: Combine Your Veggies and Rice

In a large baking dish (I used a 9 x 13 inch), combine your diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Stir everything together until well mixed. This colorful mixture not only enhances the flavor but also the visual appeal of your dish!

Step 3: Mix the Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together your chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth. This flavorful liquid will help cook the rice perfectly and infuse moisture throughout the casserole.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Pour your broth mixture over the vegetable-rice mix in the baking dish and stir until well combined. Then add in the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Give everything one final stir so every bite will be full of deliciousness.

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes. Check occasionally; you want all of that liquid absorbed while keeping everything nice and tender!

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Once baked to perfection, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle grated cheese over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and turns slightly golden.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Once out of the oven (and after letting it cool slightly), serve up generous portions topped with fresh cilantro and chopped green onions as desired. Enjoy every delicious bite!

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is sure to become a staple in your kitchen—enjoy!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole is easy, but a few tips can take it to the next level!

• Use cooked chicken: Starting with pre-cooked chicken saves time and ensures your casserole is ready in no time. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftovers from another meal for added convenience.

• Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño and chili powder according to your taste! This way, you can make the dish milder or spicier to suit your family’s preferences.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

• Experiment with veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or even black olives. These additions not only boost nutrition but also enhance the flavor profile!

• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheating it is a breeze, making it perfect for meal prep!

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving your Chicken Burrito Casserole can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to help you present this delicious dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color that brightens up each bite.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop on top brings creaminess and tang that perfectly complements the spiciness of the casserole.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices not only enhance the dish’s texture but also add healthy fats and richness.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad features sweet corn, lime juice, and cotija cheese, offering a vibrant contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy guacamole pairs beautifully with crunchy chips, making it a perfect side for dipping!
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the casserole.
• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice complements the flavors in the casserole while adding a delightful texture.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Burrito Casserole will be a hit at any table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for meal prep! It’s easy to make in advance, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week with minimal fuss.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water for moisture.

Freezing

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Place it in a freezer-safe container or cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a preheated oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Alternatively, use a microwave on medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated evenly.

FAQs

Have questions about this delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole? Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in the Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Yes! You can substitute brown rice; however, keep in mind that you may need to increase the cooking time and liquid used since brown rice takes longer to cook.

Is this Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Absolutely! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten-containing ingredients. Always check labels on packaged items like broth and cheese to ensure they are certified gluten-free.

How can I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like zucchini or spinach. You can also swap out black beans for kidney beans or add more spices if you prefer a spicier kick!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Chicken Burrito Casserole as delightful as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting hug on a plate that’s sure to make your weeknight dinners hassle-free and satisfying. Enjoy making it, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists or experiences! Happy cooking!