Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea that the whole family will love, then this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is just what you need! It’s the perfect solution for busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe combines all your favorite burrito flavors into a simple casserole that’s not only satisfying but also packed with protein. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for gatherings when you want to feed a crowd with minimal effort!

What I adore about this dish is how it brings everyone together around the table. The comforting aroma as it bakes fills the house, making it hard to resist diving in right away. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a fun get-together with friends, this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole will surely become a cherished recipe in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you’ll have more time to relax while it bakes.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves burritos, and this casserole version makes it easy to please picky eaters.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can assemble it ahead of time and pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavor Packed: Each bite is bursting with delicious Mexican-inspired flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds.
• Healthy and Filling: Loaded with lean chicken, beans, and veggies, it’s a wholesome meal that won’t leave you feeling heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole, you’ll only need some simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have on hand. This makes it not only delicious but also budget-friendly!

For the Base:

• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (or long grain white rice)
• 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Filling:

• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen)
• 1 14 ounce can low sodium black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 5 cups shredded chicken

For the Sauce:

• 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
• 1 4 ounce can mild green chilies
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For Topping:

• 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Variations

One of my favorite things about this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is how flexible it can be! Feel free to customize it based on what you have at home or your family’s preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change up the cheese: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or cheddar for an extra cheesy taste.
• Make it vegetarian: Leave out the chicken and double up on beans and veggies for a hearty meatless option.

How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. This step is crucial because starting with a hot oven ensures our casserole cooks evenly.

Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

In a large 9×13 inch baking dish, add your diced onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne if you’re feeling adventurous. Give everything a good stir to mix all those wonderful flavors together.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Sauce

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, green chiles, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined. This mixture brings moisture and flavor to our casserole!

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour your broth mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish. Stir gently to combine everything well. Then add in your shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Mix until everything is evenly distributed—this ensures every bite is full of flavor!

Step 5: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil before placing it in the oven. Bake for about 65-70 minutes or until all of the liquid is absorbed. Covering helps steam the ingredients so they cook perfectly!

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Once baked, carefully remove from the oven and take off the foil. Sprinkle grated cheese evenly across the top of your casserole. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until melted and slightly golden—this is where all that cheesy goodness happens!

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

After removing from the oven, let your casserole cool for about 5-10 minutes. Serve warm topped with fresh cilantro, green onions, salsa, and avocado if desired. Enjoy every bite of this delightful Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Creating a delicious chicken burrito casserole is easier than you think! Here are some pro tips to ensure that your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and high-quality chicken will enhance the flavor of your casserole, making it taste homemade and delicious.
• Customize the spices: Adjust the fajita seasoning and cayenne pepper to suit your family’s taste preferences. This flexibility allows you to make the casserole as mild or spicy as you like.
• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for about 5-10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve without falling apart.
• Double the recipe for leftovers: This casserole makes fantastic leftovers! Consider doubling the recipe so you can enjoy it again later in the week without any extra cooking effort.
• Experiment with cheese: While Monterey Jack is a great choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses such as cheddar or pepper jack for added flavor and creaminess.

How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving your easy chicken burrito casserole can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this hearty meal in style.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado complements the spiciness of the casserole beautifully while adding healthy fats.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This vibrant salad features sweet corn, lime juice, cotija cheese (or a non-dairy alternative), and spices, offering a refreshing balance to your meal.
• Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Smooth guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips is always a hit! It’s perfect for scooping up leftover casserole bites or enjoying on its own.
• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a crisp contrast to the warm casserole.
• Black Bean Salsa: This flavorful salsa made with black beans, diced tomatoes, onions, and lime juice is packed with protein and pairs well with both chips and the casserole itself.

With these serving ideas and pro tips, your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole will not only be simple to make but also delightful to eat! Enjoy this comforting dish that brings everyone together around the dinner table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time, store it wisely, and enjoy easy meals throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn.
• Label with the date, and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through (about 25-30 minutes).
• Alternatively, reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole without rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a different twist. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

What can I serve with Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?

This casserole pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips for crunch!

Can I use different vegetables in the casserole?

Yes! Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies like zucchini, black olives, or spinach for a personalized touch.

How do I know when my casserole is done baking?

Your casserole is ready when all liquid is absorbed and it’s bubbly around the edges. The cheese should also be melted and slightly golden on top.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole as I am! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together all your favorite flavors effortlessly. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping meals for busy days, this recipe is sure to please. Enjoy every bite and happy cooking!