Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a delicious and hearty meal that brings everyone together, this Chicken Burrito Casserole is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that has become a staple in my home because it’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. The best part? You can whip it up in one dish, leaving you more time to enjoy with your loved ones.

This casserole is not only comforting but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can get this casserole into the oven and let it do its thing!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the cheesy goodness and flavorful ingredients.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This Chicken Burrito Casserole is ideal for meal prepping; just bake it ahead of time and reheat when needed!
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and veggies, this dish is nutritious without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Cooking should be fun and easy! This Chicken Burrito Casserole uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Here’s what you’ll need:

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

One of the great things about this recipe is its flexibility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste or use what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the veggies: Feel free to add zucchini, spinach, or any other veggies you have on hand!
• Add spice: If you love heat, toss in some extra jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before baking.
• Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for added creaminess.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. If you’re using raw chicken, pop those breasts in now for about 25 minutes until fully cooked. This step is essential for ensuring your chicken is tender and easy to shred!

Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients

In a large baking dish (I recommend using a 9 x 13 inch), mix together the diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt. Stir well! This combination creates a flavorful base that brings all those delicious tastes together.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until fully combined. Pour this mixture over your rice blend in the baking dish. This step ensures that all ingredients absorb enough liquid while baking for perfect texture.

Step 4: Add Remaining Ingredients

Next up! Fold in the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn into your baking dish. Give everything a good stir so that it’s all evenly mixed—every bite will be bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until all of that liquid has been absorbed—this ensures fluffy rice!

Step 6: Cheese It Up

Once baked, remove the foil and sprinkle grated cheese generously over the top. Return it to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until that cheese melts into a bubbly golden layer—it’s such a treat!

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy

Let your Chicken Burrito Casserole cool slightly before serving. Top with fresh cilantro and sliced green onions for a pop of color and freshness. It’s time to dig in!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Creating the perfect Chicken Burrito Casserole is all about those little details that make a big difference! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out delicious every time.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh vegetables not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color and texture to your casserole, making it more appealing.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a milder dish, consider reducing the amount of jalapeño or chili powder. Adjusting the spice allows you to cater to different taste preferences, ensuring everyone enjoys it.

• Let it rest: After baking, allow the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps the flavors meld together and makes serving easier.

• Experiment with toppings: Get creative with your cheese choice! While Monterey Jack or Havarti works beautifully, trying other varieties like pepper jack or cheddar can add an exciting twist.

• Consider meal prep: This casserole keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for meal prepping. Simply reheat individual portions for a quick and satisfying meal!

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving your Chicken Burrito Casserole is just as important as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this dish and impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor that complements the spices in the casserole beautifully.
• Sliced green onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch that contrasts with the creamy cheese and soft rice.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado can enhance each bite, adding richness and making your casserole even more satisfying.

Side Dishes

• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This refreshing salad combines corn, lime juice, cilantro, and cheese for a perfect side that mirrors the flavors in your casserole.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: A classic pairing! The creaminess of guacamole alongside crunchy chips offers a delightful textural contrast.
• Simple lettuce salad: A light salad with mixed greens dressed in lime vinaigrette can balance out the richness of the casserole.
• Refried beans: Creamy refried beans on the side add extra protein and fiber while complementing the Mexican theme of your meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Chicken Burrito Casserole will not only be delicious but also an eye-catching centerpiece at any dining table. Enjoy!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy delicious, homemade 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.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole entirely and cut it into portions.
• Wrap each portion tightly in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil for extra protection.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated portions, simply microwave until heated through (about 2-3 minutes).
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating or bake at 350°F until warmed through (about 20-25 minutes).

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this Chicken Burrito Casserole.

Can I make Chicken Burrito Casserole with leftover chicken?

Absolutely! This recipe is perfect for using up leftover cooked chicken. Just shred it and mix it in as directed.

How do I adjust the spice level in Chicken Burrito Casserole?

To control the heat, you can reduce the amount of jalapeño or use a mild chili powder. Feel free to customize according to your taste!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Yes, brown rice can be used; just note that it will require a longer cooking time. You may need to increase the baking time and add a bit more liquid.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Chicken Burrito Casserole! It’s not only comforting and flavorful but also a great way to bring family and friends together over a hearty meal. Enjoy every bite as you share it with your loved ones, and don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings or sides. Happy cooking!