Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that’s both delicious and easy to prepare, you’ve come to the right place! This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a cherished family favorite in our home. It’s packed with protein, fiber, and colorful veggies, making it a healthy option that everyone will love. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy family gathering, this dish is perfect for any occasion.

What makes this casserole so special is how simple it is to throw together. You can easily prepare it ahead of time and bake it when you’re ready to eat. Plus, the flavors meld beautifully as it cooks, creating a scrumptious meal that feels like a warm hug on your plate.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish in the oven before you know it!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy digging into this hearty casserole.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch at the start of the week for easy lunches or dinners.
• Delicious Flavors: The combination of spices and ingredients creates a flavorful fiesta in every bite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s chat about the ingredients! This Chicken Burrito Casserole uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. It’s all about fresh veggies and hearty staples that come together for an irresistible meal.

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 best things about this casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to customize it according to your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some zucchini, spinach, or any other veggies you love.
• Change the cheese: Try using cheddar or pepper jack for an extra kick.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add more jalapeños or some diced green chilies.

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, that’s no problem! Just bake your chicken breasts for about 25 minutes until they’re cooked through. Once done, shred them with two forks – it’s quick and easy!

Step 2: Mix the Base Ingredients

In a large baking dish (I recommend using one that’s about 9 x 13 inches), add your diced onion, bell pepper, minced jalapeño, dry rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt. Stir everything together so those spices coat the vegetables nicely.

Step 3: Combine Broth Mixture

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

Step 4: Bring It All Together

Pour the broth mixture over your rice and veggie blend in the baking dish. Give it another good stir so everything is mixed well. Then add in the shredded chicken along with the black beans and corn. Stir once more until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 5: Bake It Up!

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the oven for about 50-60 minutes or until all of that delicious liquid has been absorbed by the rice.

Step 6: Add Cheese & Finish Baking

Once baked, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle that lovely grated cheese on top. Pop the dish back into the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully and turns slightly golden.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

After removing from the oven (and allowing it to cool slightly), serve up generous portions topped with fresh cilantro and green onions if desired. Your Chicken Burrito Casserole is ready to be enjoyed!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious chicken burrito casserole can be a breeze with a few handy tips to enhance your cooking experience!

• Prep Ingredients Ahead: Chopping your vegetables and shredding the chicken the night before can save you time during busy weeknights, allowing you to whip up this dish in under an hour.
• Customize Your Spice Level: If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to reduce the jalapeño or omit it altogether. Alternatively, add more spices if you enjoy a kick; this flexibility makes it perfect for any palate!
• Use Leftover Chicken: This recipe is an excellent way to use up leftover roast chicken or store-bought rotisserie chicken, making it not just delicious but also resourceful.
• Substitute Grains: For a twist, consider swapping out traditional rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice. These alternatives can add unique flavors and textures while keeping the dish nutritious.
• Make it Cheesy: Experiment with different types of cheese! While Monterey Jack and Havarti are great choices, trying pepper jack or a blend of cheeses can elevate the flavor profile even further.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Presenting your chicken burrito casserole beautifully can make mealtime more enjoyable. Here are some ideas to serve it up right!

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of color and flavor that complements the dish perfectly.
• Sour Cream Alternative: Use a dairy-free sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess that balances out the spices.
• Sliced Avocado: Adding slices of avocado not only enhances the visual appeal but also contributes healthy fats.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a zesty vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Mexican Street Corn: Grilled corn on the cob seasoned with lime, cilantro, and a sprinkle of chili powder brings vibrant flavors that pair wonderfully.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served alongside crispy tortilla chips makes for an irresistible appetizer before diving into your casserole.
• Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed broccoli or zucchini adds nutritional value and color to your meal while keeping it wholesome.

Enjoy making your chicken burrito casserole! It’s not just about sustenance; it’s about sharing warmth and flavor with those you love.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for meal prep! It not only tastes great but also keeps well, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how you can store or freeze leftovers for future meals.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven as needed.

Freezing

• Cool the casserole completely before freezing.
• Cut into individual portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap.
• Place wrapped portions in a freezer-safe bag or container.
• Freeze for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• If using a microwave, heat on medium power until hot, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe:

Can I make Chicken Burrito Casserole with brown rice?

Absolutely! You can substitute long-grain white rice with brown rice; just remember that it may take longer to cook, so adjust your liquid accordingly.

How long does Chicken Burrito Casserole last in the fridge?

Your Chicken Burrito Casserole will last up to 4 days when stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge.

What toppings can I add to my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Feel free to customize your casserole with toppings like diced avocado, salsa, sour cream alternatives, or additional cheese for a delicious twist!

Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe is gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients used—like broth and canned goods—are certified gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Burrito Casserole as much as I do! It’s a special dish that brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying throughout the week. Dive into this comforting meal and let it warm your heart and home. Happy cooking!