Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting dish that the whole family will love, you’ve landed in the right place! This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a warm hug in a baking dish. It’s packed full of protein, fiber, and vibrant veggies, making it not only delicious but also a wholesome meal option. Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings, this recipe has a way of bringing everyone together around the dinner table.

What I adore about this casserole is its simplicity. You can whip it up without breaking a sweat and enjoy the incredible flavors and hearty ingredients. Plus, it makes for fantastic leftovers—if there are any left!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can get this dish into the oven in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Everyone loves burritos! This casserole version is fun to eat and easy to customize.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance for a hassle-free dinner or meal prep for the week.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome veggies and lean chicken, it’s as nutritious as it is tasty.
• Delicious Leftovers: Enjoy the flavors even more the next day—this casserole keeps well in the fridge!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients for our Chicken Burrito Casserole. You might already have many of these on hand, making your cooking experience even easier!

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 (about 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 experiment with different flavors and ingredients to suit your taste.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even plant-based protein for a vegetarian version.
• Add more veggies: Sneak in some diced zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try pepper jack cheese for a spicy kick or go dairy-free with vegan cheese alternatives.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, consider adding more jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce!

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you don’t have cooked chicken ready, you can bake chicken breasts at this temperature for about 25 minutes. Shredding freshly baked chicken adds an extra juiciness to your casserole.

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large baking dish (I used a 9 x 13 inch), toss together diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Stirring these together allows all those wonderful flavors to intermingle before baking.

Step 3: Mix Together Broth Ingredients

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and rich flavor throughout the casserole.

Step 4: Combine Everything in One Dish

Pour the broth mixture over your rice blend in the baking dish. Give everything a good stir so that all those flavors meld beautifully together.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Beans

Now it’s time to add shredded chicken along with black beans and corn into the mix. Stir again until everything is nicely incorporated—this step ensures every bite is loaded with goodness.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until all liquid is absorbed. Covering helps steam everything perfectly while keeping it moist.

Step 7: Add Cheese Topping

After baking is complete, take off the foil and sprinkle grated cheese on top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until melted and golden—a truly mouthwatering sight!

Step 8: Cool Slightly & Serve

Once out of the oven, let your casserole cool slightly before serving. Top with fresh cilantro and green onion as desired; this adds a lovely freshness that complements each bite.

Enjoy sharing this delightful Chicken Burrito Casserole with loved ones!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole is all about those little details that can elevate your dish to the next level. Here are some pro tips to ensure your casserole is perfect every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add to the nutritional value of your dish.

• Pre-cook the rice: While this recipe calls for uncooked rice, using pre-cooked rice can reduce your baking time and ensure a fluffier texture in your casserole.

• Add some heat: If you love spice, don’t hesitate to add extra jalapeños or even a dash of hot sauce. This will give your casserole an extra kick that many enjoy!

• Make it ahead: Prepare your casserole a day in advance and refrigerate it. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making for an even tastier meal when baked.

• Experiment with toppings: Try adding avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream on top after baking. These additions can create delightful contrasts in texture and flavor.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving Chicken Burrito Casserole doesn’t have to be complicated! With its hearty flavors and vibrant colors, this dish looks great on any table. Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the rich flavors of the casserole.
• Sliced green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, making your dish visually appealing.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado can balance out the spices and add richness to each serving.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the savory casserole.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: This classic pairing offers a creamy element and crunch that guests will love alongside their servings.
• Mexican street corn (Elote): Grilled corn topped with lime juice, chili powder, and cheese brings another layer of deliciousness that matches perfectly with burritos.
• Black bean salsa: Made with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and black beans, this colorful salsa adds zestiness and is an excellent sidekick for the casserole.

Enjoy your home-cooked Chicken Burrito Casserole! It’s not only easy to make but is sure to become a family favorite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep. It can be made ahead of time, allowing you to enjoy delicious, hearty meals throughout the week with minimal effort.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the casserole cool completely before freezing.
• Portion it into freezer-safe containers or use a single large container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap before covering with a lid.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Cover the casserole with foil to prevent drying out.
• Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• Alternatively, use a microwave-safe dish and heat individual portions in the microwave until warm.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe.

Can I use other types of meat in Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Yes! Feel free to substitute chicken with cooked turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Adjust cooking times as needed based on your protein choice.

How can I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

You can easily customize your Chicken Burrito Casserole by adding your favorite vegetables such as zucchini or spinach, or by using different types of beans. The options are endless!

Can I make Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for making ahead. You can prepare it, store it in the fridge, and bake it later when you’re ready to serve.

Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses rice instead of tortillas and does not include any gluten-containing ingredients, making it a great gluten-free option.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Chicken Burrito Casserole! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with warmth and comfort. Whether you’re enjoying it on a busy weeknight or sharing it with family and friends, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!