Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting, filling dish that the whole family will love, then this Chicken Burrito Casserole is just what you need! It’s loaded with tender chicken, colorful veggies, and spices that bring everything together. This casserole is perfect for those busy weeknights when time is short but you still want to serve a meal that feels special. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—just whip up a big batch and enjoy leftovers throughout the week!

Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also healthy, making it a go-to in my kitchen. Whether you’re hosting a casual family gathering or craving a cozy night in, this Chicken Burrito Casserole will surely become a favorite at your table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just one baking dish and straightforward steps, this recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor!
• Family-friendly appeal: Everyone will enjoy digging into this hearty dish packed with flavors and textures.
• Make-ahead convenience: Perfect for meal prep—simply bake it ahead of time and reheat when you’re ready to eat.
• Healthy ingredients: A wholesome mix of protein, fiber, and veggies makes it a nutrition-packed option for any meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of the fun! Here’s what you’ll need to create your own Chicken Burrito Casserole:

Fresh Vegetables

• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, minced

Grains and Spices

• 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

Protein and Beans

• 1 cup corn kernels, frozen
• 14oz can black beans, strained and rinsed
• 450g cooked chicken, shredded (6 cups or 3 chicken breasts)

Broth and Oil

• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

Topping

• 150 grams Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese, grated
• Cilantro, to serve
• Green onion, to serve

Variations

One of the best things about the Chicken Burrito Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with these variations:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not in the mood for chicken, try shredded turkey or even a mix of beans for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for an extra punch of nutrition that blends beautifully with the dish.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor.
• Spice it up: If you like some heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced green chiles!

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your casserole bakes evenly and gets nice and bubbly. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can bake your chicken breasts now; they’ll be perfect once shredded!

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large baking dish (I recommend one that measures 9 x 13 inches), combine the diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, dry rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Stir everything together well. This mixture forms the flavorful base of your casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until fully combined. This mixture brings moisture and richness to your casserole—don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Incorporate Everything

Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish over your rice mixture. Stir until everything is nicely combined. Then add in your shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. One final stir ensures that every bite will be packed with flavor.

Step 5: Bake It Up

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and pop it into the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed. This slow cooking allows all those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Once baked, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle grated cheese over top of your casserole. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown—this step adds that delicious cheesy layer we all love!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Take out your casserole from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Top each portion with fresh cilantro and green onion as desired. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Chicken Burrito Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Creating the perfect Chicken Burrito Casserole is a breeze with just a few helpful tips!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile of your casserole, making it more vibrant and delicious.
• Customize your spices: Feel free to adjust the chili powder and cumin levels according to your taste preferences. A little extra heat can make this dish even more exciting!
• Layer wisely: When adding your ingredients to the baking dish, layer them instead of just mixing everything together. This ensures that all flavors are well-distributed while maintaining texture.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes for easier serving.
• Make it ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it in advance and store it in the fridge, then bake it when you’re ready for a hearty meal.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

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

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Sour cream or Greek yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can provide a creamy contrast to the spice, balancing out the heat.
• Chopped avocado: Creamy avocado slices not only add texture but also bring a lovely richness that pairs wonderfully with the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad made with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a squeeze of lime can help cut through the richness of the casserole.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: The creamy guacamole alongside crunchy chips creates an irresistible combination that guests will love.
• Mexican street corn (elote): This flavorful side, coated in lime juice, feta cheese, and spices, adds a sweet and savory note that complements your main dish perfectly.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies provide an extra dose of nutrients while adding color and variety to your table.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Burrito Casserole is sure to impress everyone at mealtime! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for meal prep! Whether you’re planning for busy weeknights or want to have a delicious dish ready to go, this recipe stores well and can be easily reheated.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool fully before freezing.
• Cut into individual portions for easy reheating.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• For frozen portions, remove from the freezer and thaw overnight in the fridge. Then follow the same oven instructions as above.
• You can also reheat individual servings in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes, or until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Chicken Burrito Casserole:

Can I use different types of beans in my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute black beans with pinto beans or kidney beans according to your preference.

How can I make my Chicken Burrito Casserole spicier?

To add more heat, consider using additional jalapeños or incorporating some diced green chilies into the mix. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on top before baking!

Can I prepare Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. You can assemble it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake it.

What can I serve with Chicken Burrito Casserole?

This casserole is hearty on its own, but you could serve it alongside a simple salad or some tortilla chips with salsa for extra crunch!

Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you ensure that your ingredients (like broth and spices) are gluten-free, this casserole will be suitable for those avoiding gluten.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Burrito Casserole as much as I do! It’s not only comforting and packed with flavor but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re gathering friends for a cozy dinner or prepping meals for the week, this dish is sure to please. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!