Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a warm, hearty meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delightful mix of flavors and textures that brings the essence of burritos in a cozy casserole form. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when you have friends and family over. The best part? You can whip it up in no time and enjoy the leftovers for lunch!

This recipe has become a favorite in my household because it combines wholesome ingredients with mouthwatering taste. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies while keeping everyone happy. Let’s dive into why you’ll love making this Chicken Burrito Casserole!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy Preparation: With just a few simple steps, dinner will be ready before you know it!
• Family-Friendly Appeal: Kids and adults alike will devour this delicious dish, making it a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prep it in advance for those busy nights, so you can simply pop it in the oven when you’re ready to eat.
• Flavorful & Satisfying: Each bite is packed with savory goodness that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! This Chicken Burrito Casserole uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

For the Base

• 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

For the Filling

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

For the Sauce

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

For Topping

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

Variations

One of the things I love most about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to make it your own with these fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or shredded rotisserie chicken for a different flavor twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or even some diced green chilies.
• Change up the cheese: Try queso blanco or pepper jack for a unique cheesy flavor.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re using raw chicken instead of pre-cooked, bake the chicken breasts for about 25 minutes until they are fully cooked. Shredding them afterward makes mixing easy!

Step 2: Prepare Your Baking Dish

In a large baking dish (I used 9 x 13 inches), add your diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Stir everything together until well combined. This mixture creates a flavorful base for your casserole.

Step 3: Mix Your Sauce

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth. This sauce adds moisture and richness to your casserole.

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Pour the broth mixture into your baking dish with the rice mixture and stir gently to combine. Then, fold in your shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. Give everything one final stir so all ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. This allows all those flavors to meld beautifully!

Step 6: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

Once it’s done baking, remove the foil and sprinkle grated cheese on top. Return it to the oven for another 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. The bubbly cheese adds an irresistible finish!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

After removing from the oven, let it cool slightly before serving. Top with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions as desired. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Chicken Burrito Casserole!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole is all about the little details! Here are some pro tips to ensure your casserole turns out perfectly every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor and nutrition of your casserole, making it taste vibrant and wholesome.
• Layer wisely: When adding ingredients to the baking dish, consider layering them for even cooking. This ensures that all flavors meld together beautifully.
• Adjust spice levels: If you or your guests prefer milder flavors, feel free to reduce or omit the jalapeño and chili powder. Conversely, add more spices for an extra kick!
• Let it rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enjoy.
• Make it ahead: This casserole is perfect for meal prep! Assemble it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to bake.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving Chicken Burrito Casserole can be just as fun as making it! With a few simple garnishes and side dishes, you can elevate this comforting meal into a feast.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that balances the rich flavors.
• Sour cream or non-dairy alternative: A dollop of sour cream offers creaminess and tang, enhancing every bite.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide richness and additional nutrients while complementing the spices in the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing complements the hearty casserole perfectly, adding freshness.
• Guacamole with tortilla chips: Creamy guacamole served with crispy tortilla chips creates a delightful appetizer or snack alongside your meal.
• Mexican street corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered in lime juice, mayo (or non-dairy alternative), chili powder, and cheese brings vibrant flavors that pair wonderfully with the casserole.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasoned roasted zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus not only add color but also contribute additional nutrients and textures to your meal.

With these serving suggestions, your Chicken Burrito Casserole will shine during dinner gatherings or family meals. Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, home-cooked meals throughout the week. Here’s how to store any leftovers or prepare it in advance.

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.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool fully after baking.
• Cut into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions into a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Bake covered with foil for about 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
• For frozen portions, transfer to the refrigerator 24 hours before reheating to thaw.
• Reheat in a similar manner, covered with foil, adding extra time if needed.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I make Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

Absolutely! This casserole can be prepared in advance. Simply assemble it without baking and store it in the fridge for up to a day before cooking.

What should I serve with Chicken Burrito Casserole?

This dish is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad or some avocado slices for added creaminess!

How do I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, corn, or even diced tomatoes work beautifully!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice; however, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not include any wheat products. Always double-check your ingredients if you’re concerned about gluten cross-contamination.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Chicken Burrito Casserole becomes a staple in your kitchen! Not only is it packed with flavor and nutrition, but it’s also incredibly comforting and satisfying. Enjoy making this dish, whether for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prepping for those hectic days. I’m excited for you to try it and can’t wait to hear how much you love it!