Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a cozy, hearty meal that the whole family will love, this Chicken Burrito Casserole is just the ticket! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and an array of colorful veggies, making it not only delicious but also nourishing. This dish has become a staple in my home because it’s perfect for busy weeknights or when hosting friends and family. Plus, it’s easy to throw together ahead of time—what’s not to love?

This casserole is a wonderful blend of flavors and textures that remind me of my favorite burritos. With every bite, you get that comforting taste without the fuss of rolling individual burritos. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in warmth and can easily be customized to suit your taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a warm meal ready in no time.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike enjoy the hearty flavors and gooey cheese on top!
• Make-ahead convenience: Prepare it in advance and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Wholesome ingredients: Packed with veggies, lean protein, and whole grains for a nutritious option.
• Delicious leftovers: This casserole tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These are simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Chicken Burrito Casserole. You might already have many of these items in your pantry!

• 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 about 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
• Fresh cilantro, to serve
• Sliced green onion, to serve

Variations

One of the best things about this Chicken Burrito Casserole is its flexibility! You can easily tweak it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or diced tofu for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or some hot sauce to the mix!
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for varied flavor.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. If you don’t have cooked chicken on hand, now’s a great time to bake some chicken breasts. Simply place them in the oven for about 25 minutes until cooked through. Once they’re done, shred them using two forks so they’re nice and bite-sized!

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large baking dish (I recommend using one that’s about 9 x 13 inches), combine diced onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Stir everything together well—this mixture is where all those lovely flavors will start mingling!

Step 3: Combine Broth Mixture

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth. Pour this flavorful mix over your rice mixture in the baking dish. Stir gently so everything is evenly coated—it’s important because this will help cook the rice perfectly!

Step 4: Add Protein and Veggies

Now it’s time to add the stars of our casserole! Toss in your shredded chicken along with black beans and corn. Give everything one final stir until all ingredients are well incorporated—this ensures each serving has plenty of goodness.

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 the liquid is absorbed. This step is crucial as it allows the rice to cook fully while soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Once baked to perfection, carefully remove from the oven and take off the foil. Sprinkle grated cheese generously over the top—who doesn’t love gooey melted cheese? Return it back to the oven for another final bake (about 5–10 minutes) until golden brown.

Step 7: Serve with Fresh Toppings

After removing from the oven again, let it cool slightly before serving. Top with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for that burst of freshness! Enjoy every bite of this wonderful Chicken Burrito Casserole with loved ones around your table!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious chicken burrito casserole is all about the little details that can elevate your dish. Here are some pro tips to make this meal even more enjoyable!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables and herbs not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant colors to your casserole, making it visually appealing.

• Customize the spice level: Adjust the amount of jalapeño or chili powder based on your family’s preference for heat. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish without overwhelming their taste buds.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making it easier to serve and enhancing the flavors as they meld together.

• Experiment with cheese types: While Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese are excellent choices, feel free to try other cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or cheddar for a sharper taste.

• Make it a meal prep superstar: This casserole keeps well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep. Simply divide into portions and store in airtight containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Presenting your chicken burrito casserole can be just as important as cooking it to perfection! Here are some ideas to elevate your serving experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness and complements the flavors wonderfully.
• Sliced green onions: These give a nice crunch and subtle onion flavor that brightens up each bite.
• Sour cream or yogurt: A dollop of dairy adds creaminess and balances out the spices, enhancing overall enjoyment.

Side Dishes

• Guacamole: Creamy avocado mixed with lime juice and spices makes a delightful dip that pairs perfectly with the burrito casserole.
• Mexican-style corn salad: A refreshing blend of corn, bell peppers, lime juice, and cilantro provides a crunchy contrast to the warm casserole.
• Simple green salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette offer a healthy side that complements the richness of the main dish.
• Tortilla chips: Crispy chips can be served on the side for added texture and fun! They’re perfect for scooping up any leftovers from your plate.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your chicken burrito casserole will surely become a beloved family favorite! Enjoy every delicious bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, healthy meals throughout the week. Whether you’re prepping for busy weekdays or simply want leftovers for the next day, this recipe stores beautifully!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Wrap the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or transfer portions to freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. To use, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

Reheating

• For best results, reheat individual portions in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
• If reheating the entire casserole, cover with foil and bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warm throughout, about 20-30 minutes.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you:

Can I use different types of cheese for Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! While Monterey Jack and Havarti work beautifully, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Cheddar or Pepper Jack for added flavor.

How can I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

You can easily customize this casserole by adding your favorite veggies such as zucchini or spinach. You can also swap out beans or adjust spices based on your taste preferences!

Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! This Chicken Burrito Casserole is gluten-free as long as you ensure that your broth and any additional toppings are also gluten-free.

How do I make Chicken Burrito Casserole vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and replace it with additional beans, lentils, or a meat alternative like tempeh. Adjust spices accordingly to maintain flavor.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Chicken Burrito Casserole as much as I do! It’s a delightful meal that brings comfort while being packed with wholesome ingredients. Enjoy every bite and feel free to share your creations with friends and family! Happy cooking!