Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting, delicious meal that brings everyone to the table, this Chicken Burrito Casserole is just what you need. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Packed with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and flavorful spices, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Plus, it’s simple enough that even novice cooks can whip it up without a hitch!

This casserole is more than just a meal; it’s a wonderful way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while satisfying your cravings for something hearty and scrumptious. Whether you’re prepping for the week ahead or winding down after a long day, this dish is sure to make you feel at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With minimal prep time and straightforward steps, you can have this dish in the oven in no time.
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves a good burrito! This casserole is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Make-ahead convenience: It’s perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat.
• Packed with goodness: Full of protein, fiber, and veggies, this dish is as nutritious as it is delicious.
• Delicious leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it an excellent option for lunch or dinner!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple and wholesome ingredients! This recipe uses fresh veggies, flavorful spices, and shredded chicken to create a mouthwatering Chicken Burrito Casserole that everyone will love.

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
• Cilantro, to serve
• Green onion, to serve

Variations

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas if you’re looking for a vegetarian twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach, zucchini, or any other favorite vegetables to boost the nutrition.
• Change up the spice level: If you love heat, add more jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for an extra kick!
• Use different cheese: Pepper Jack cheese adds a nice zing! Experiment with your favorite varieties.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, you can bake chicken breasts in the oven for about 25 minutes until they are fully cooked. Once done, let them cool slightly before shredding into bite-sized pieces. This step ensures your casserole has that tender chicken goodness throughout!

Step 2: Mix Up the Base

In a large baking dish (I used one that’s 9 x 13 inches), combine all of your diced onions, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, dry rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Give everything a good stir! This mixture forms the flavorful base of your casserole.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together your chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until everything is well combined. This broth mixture will infuse incredible flavor into your rice as it cooks!

Step 4: Combine It All Together

Pour the broth mixture over your rice and veggie blend in the baking dish. Stir well to ensure everything is nicely mixed together. Next up—add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Give it one final stir so every ingredient gets its moment in the spotlight!

Step 5: Bake It Up

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

Step 6: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

Once baked through, carefully remove the aluminum foil and sprinkle grated cheese over the top of your casserole. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until that cheese is melted and slightly golden. Trust me; this step takes it from good to absolutely irresistible!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

After baking, let your casserole cool slightly before diving in. Top each serving with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for an added pop of flavor! Enjoy every cheesy bite of this amazing Chicken Burrito Casserole with family and friends—you won’t regret it!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious chicken burrito casserole is all about the details, so here are some tips to help you make it perfect every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant touch to your casserole. Freshness ensures that every bite bursts with flavor.

• Adjust spice levels: If you like it spicier, consider adding more jalapeños or including diced green chilies. Spicing it up can take this dish from mild to memorable.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier. This resting period can elevate the overall texture and taste of the dish.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t shy away from trying different kinds of cheese or even adding avocado slices on top after baking. Variations in toppings can transform your casserole into a unique masterpiece every time.

• Make it ahead: This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can assemble it in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a day before baking. It saves time on busy weeknights while still delivering great taste.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving your chicken burrito casserole is just as important as making it! Here are some ideas to present this dish beautifully and enhance your meal experience.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced green onions: These offer a mild oniony crunch that pairs perfectly with the creamy melted cheese.
• Dollops of sour cream or Greek yogurt: A creamy topping can balance out the spices in the casserole, making each bite delightful.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This bright and flavorful salad made with corn, lime, and spices adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the casserole.
• Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip is always a hit and provides a rich texture that complements the dish perfectly.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips served on the side make for a fun addition, allowing everyone to scoop up some casserole or enjoy them as a snack.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette serves as a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the casserole.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your chicken burrito casserole will not only taste amazing but also look fantastic on your dinner table! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is not just a delicious meal; it’s perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week, making your busy days a little easier.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
• Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil, then place it in a freezer-safe container.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty Chicken Burrito Casserole that might help you get started!

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?

Absolutely! This Chicken Burrito Casserole is versatile. You can substitute chicken with turkey, quinoa, or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary.

How spicy is this Chicken Burrito Casserole?

The spiciness of this Chicken Burrito Casserole can vary depending on how much jalapeño you use. If you’re sensitive to heat, feel free to reduce the amount or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

Can I add more vegetables to the casserole?

Yes! Feel free to customize your Chicken Burrito Casserole by adding more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms. They will add extra nutrients and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Burrito Casserole as much as I do! It’s not only packed with flavor but is also a great way to bring friends and family together around the dinner table. Whether you’re prepping for a busy week or simply looking for a comforting meal, this casserole has got you covered. Enjoy every bite and remember that cooking is all about love and creativity—so have fun with it!