If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that’s both a crowd-pleaser and a breeze to put together, this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. Filled with tender chicken, vibrant veggies, hearty rice, and melted cheese, every bite feels like a warm hug. This casserole captures the essence of classic burrito flavors without the fuss, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prepping. Trust me, once you try this, it will quickly become one of your go-to meals for any occasion.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity and how each ingredient plays a vital role in creating that layered, satisfying taste and texture. From the fresh crunch of red bell pepper to the rich, savory notes of the tomato paste, every element enhances this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe.
- 1 finely diced onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor as it softens during baking.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Provides a pop of color and a subtle crunch to balance the creamy components.
- 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice: A wholesome, nutty base that soaks up all those delicious juices; you can substitute with white rice if preferred.
- 1 packet fajita seasoning: Brings classic southwestern spices to infuse the whole dish with vibrant flavor.
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a gentle heat that wakes up the palate without overwhelming the other flavors.
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels: Sweet bursts of corn provide a delightful contrast to the savory elements.
- 1 can (15 oz) low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture, protein, and a hint of earthiness.
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken: The hearty star of the dish, ensuring each bite is packed with protein and comfort.
- 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and infuses richness throughout the rice and ingredients.
- 1 can (4 oz) mild green chilies: Offers a mild zing and subtle smoky flavor to elevate the casserole.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps to bind the tomato paste and seasonings for an even coating and richness.
- 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrates the tomato flavor, adding a pleasant tang and color to the mix.
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts beautifully on top for a creamy, gooey finish that ties the dish together.
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Combine the Base Ingredients
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). In your trusty 9×13-inch baking dish, toss together the diced onion, red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. This mix sets the flavor foundation for your casserole by combining fresh vegetables with the aromatic spices.
Step 2: Whisk Together the Liquid Mixture
Grab a bowl and whisk the chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until everything is evenly blended. This liquid mixture is what will cook the rice in the oven, infusing it with rich, zesty flavors and ensuring the dish stays moist and delicious.
Step 3: Combine and Bake
Pour the broth mixture over the veggie and rice base in the baking dish. Then add the corn, black beans, and shredded chicken, stirring gently to distribute all ingredients evenly. Cover the dish tightly with foil to trap the steam and bake for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed. This slow cook melds all the flavors perfectly.
Step 4: Add the Cheese and Finish Baking
Once the rice is cooked, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Return the casserole to the oven uncovered, baking it for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden topping. This finishing touch adds that irresistible gooeyness that makes the dish so comforting.
Step 5: Cool Slightly and Serve
Before serving, let your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole cool for a few minutes to set the layers. This pause makes it easier to scoop out perfect portions of this flavorful, hearty meal. Get ready for some well-deserved compliments!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped cilantro, sliced green onions, or a dollop of sour cream can brighten up the casserole and add fresh bursts of flavor. A squeeze of lime juice or some diced avocado on top complements the spices beautifully and adds a refreshing contrast.
Side Dishes
Pair this casserole with a crisp green salad or a bowl of salsa and tortilla chips to amp up the meal’s Tex-Mex vibes. Steamed vegetables or a side of guacamole also balance out the richness without competing with the casserole’s hearty texture.
Creative Ways to Present
Want to make dinner feel special? Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for a personalized touch or spoon it into warm tortillas and roll it up like a burrito bowl on a plate. You could even set up a toppings bar with jalapeños, olives, or shredded lettuce so everyone can customize their serving.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This casserole keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors develop even more, making leftovers just as delicious—if not more so—than the first serving.
Freezing
You can freeze the Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe for up to 2 months. Just transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge to maintain the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat individual portions in the microwave until hot all the way through, or warm the entire casserole in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20 minutes, covered to keep it moist. Adding a little extra cheese on top during reheating is a delicious bonus.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of cooked chicken breast?
Absolutely! Shredded cooked chicken thighs will add extra moisture and a richer flavor, which works beautifully in this casserole.
Is it necessary to use parboiled rice?
Parboiled rice helps maintain texture without getting mushy, but you can swap in regular long-grain white rice if that’s what you have on hand; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and add extra beans, vegetables, or even tofu to keep it hearty and satisfying.
How spicy is the casserole?
This recipe is mild with a subtle kick from the fajita seasoning and optional cayenne pepper, but you can adjust the heat to your preference by increasing spices or adding fresh jalapeños.
What’s the best way to shred cooked chicken quickly?
You can use two forks to pull apart warm cooked chicken, or save time by pulsing it briefly in a food processor—just be careful not to over-process.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is a delicious, fuss-free way to enjoy your favorite burrito flavors in a cozy, bake-and-serve form. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for stressful weekdays, this dish has your back with comforting warmth and vibrant taste. Give it a try, and I promise it will brighten your dinner table and your week!
Print
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Low Salt
Description
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal combining seasoned chicken, vegetables, rice, and cheese baked to perfection. Perfect for a comforting family dinner, it features a blend of fajita spices, black beans, corn, and melted Monterey Jack cheese, all cooked together in the oven for a satisfying Tex-Mex inspired casserole.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Rice
- 1 finely diced onion
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (or substitute long-grain white rice)
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
Seasonings and Spices
- 1 packet fajita seasoning (or homemade)
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Protein and Beans
- 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Others
- 2 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) mild green chilies
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
Dairy
- 1 1/2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it’s ready for baking the casserole evenly.
- Mix Vegetables and Rice: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, combine the finely diced onion, diced red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and optional cayenne pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the ingredients.
- Prepare Broth Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth and well combined.
- Combine All Ingredients: Pour the broth mixture over the rice and vegetable mixture in the baking dish. Add the frozen corn kernels, rinsed black beans, and shredded cooked chicken. Stir thoroughly to combine everything evenly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 65 to 70 minutes or until the rice is fully cooked and has absorbed all the liquid.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Carefully remove the foil, sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top, then return the dish to the oven for 5 to 10 minutes. Bake until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from oven and let the casserole cool slightly before serving to enjoy the flavors at their best and to avoid burns.
Notes
- Using parboiled long-grain brown rice helps ensure the rice cooks evenly during baking without becoming mushy.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the chicken and substitute vegetable broth.
- To save time, use pre-cooked rotisserie chicken shredded instead of cooking your own chicken.
