Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy meal that brings the whole family together, then this Chicken Burrito Casserole is just what you need! It’s one of those dishes that makes you feel right at home, no matter where you are. Packed with flavor and nutrition, this casserole is perfect for busy weeknights or even for meal prepping ahead of time. Plus, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, which makes it a staple in my kitchen.

What I love most about this Chicken Burrito Casserole is how simple it is to pull together. You can mix everything in one dish, pop it in the oven, and let it do its magic while you relax or catch up on your favorite show. The combination of chicken, beans, and spices makes every bite comforting and satisfying!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy preparation: This casserole comes together in just a few steps, making it ideal for any night of the week.
• Family-friendly appeal: With its delicious flavors and cheesy topping, even picky eaters will be asking for seconds!
• Healthy ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber from the chicken and beans, this dish keeps you feeling full without the guilt.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make a big batch ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week—just reheat and serve!
• Customizable flavors: You can easily tweak the spices or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a comforting meal everyone will love. Don’t worry if you’re not an experienced cook; this recipe is straightforward and forgiving!

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 super flexible! Feel free to get creative with these fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives if you’re looking for something different.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or go dairy-free with vegan cheese.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, toss in some diced green chilies or increase the jalapeño amount.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven helps ensure even cooking. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, simply bake your chicken breasts for about 25 minutes until cooked through. Once they’re done, shred them into bite-sized pieces using two forks.

Step 2: Prepare the Veggies and Rice Mixture

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 sea salt. Stir everything together so that those wonderful flavors meld right from the start!

Step 3: Combine Broth Mixture

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined. This mixture adds moisture to our casserole while infusing each bite with rich flavor.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Pour your broth mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish. Stir everything together thoroughly so that all those tasty ingredients get evenly distributed.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Beans

Next up! Gently fold in your shredded chicken along with black beans and corn. This step ensures every scoop of this Chicken Burrito Casserole has an exciting blend of textures and flavors.

Step 6: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and pop it into your preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until all of that delicious liquid is absorbed by the rice—this is where all those tasty flavors really come together!

Step 7: Melt that Cheese!

Once baked to perfection, take out the casserole and remove the foil. Sprinkle grated cheese on top like icing on a cake! Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and turns slightly golden.

Step 8: Serve It Up!

Let the casserole cool slightly before serving—this allows those layers to set a bit. When you’re ready to dig in, top each serving with fresh cilantro and chopped green onions for an added burst of flavor!

And there you have it—a warm plate of comfort food that’s sure to win hearts at any table! Enjoy your delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

To make your Chicken Burrito Casserole even more delicious and foolproof, consider these helpful tips!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant appearance to your casserole, making it more appealing.

• Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño according to your heat preference. This way, you can cater to everyone’s taste while still enjoying that delicious burrito flavor.

• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking lets the flavors meld together beautifully and makes serving easier.

• Experiment with Cheese: Try mixing different types of cheese, like pepper jack for a spicy kick or cheddar for a classic touch. This can give your casserole a unique twist each time!

• Make It Ahead: You can prepare this dish in advance by assembling everything in the baking dish, covering it tightly, and refrigerating overnight. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat!

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving your Chicken Burrito Casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to elevate your dining experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of freshness and color that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt provides a creamy contrast and balances out the spices in the casserole.
• Sliced Avocado: Adding slices of avocado gives a creamy texture and healthy fats, making every bite richer.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy guacamole paired with crunchy chips is always a crowd-pleaser and adds an extra layer of flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers not only provide nutrition but also complement the burrito flavors perfectly.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This sweet and savory grilled corn dish topped with lime juice and chili powder is an excellent side that resonates well with Mexican cuisine.

With these serving suggestions, your Chicken Burrito Casserole will be a hit at any gathering! Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is fantastic for meal prep, making your weeknight dinners not only easier but also healthier. You can prepare it in advance and enjoy the flavors throughout the week!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions readers have about this recipe.

Can I make Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared a day in advance. Just follow the instructions and store it covered in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to bake, simply pop it in the oven!

What can I substitute for chicken in Chicken Burrito Casserole?

You can use shredded turkey or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian option. Both alternatives will still deliver a delicious and satisfying meal.

How do I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Feel free to add your favorite veggies like zucchini or spinach, or switch up the beans based on your preference. The beauty of this dish is its versatility!

Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you ensure that your ingredients (like broth and any spices) are gluten-free, this casserole is a wonderful gluten-free option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken Burrito Casserole! It’s not just a meal; it’s a delightful way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your own twists on this recipe – I would love to hear how it turns out for you!