If you love meals that are bursting with bold flavors, comforting textures, and colorful ingredients all baked together in perfect harmony, you are going to adore this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe. It’s the perfect blend of tender shredded chicken, spicy notes from jalapeño, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a fragrant mix of spices that infuse the rice with mouthwatering goodness. This dish is like a warm hug on a plate that’s easy to throw together and even easier to enjoy with family or friends.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient is thoughtfully chosen to bring rich textures, vibrant colors, and layers of flavor that make every bite satisfying and delicious.
- 1/2 red onion, diced: Adds a mild sweetness and a bit of crunch when sautéed, forming a flavorful base.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Contributes a fresh, sweet pop of color and juiciness that balances the spices.
- 1 jalapeño, minced: Brings a lively kick of heat that elevates the entire dish without overwhelming it.
- 1 cup dry long-grain white rice: Absorbs all the savory juices and spices, creating a hearty texture.
- 2 tablespoons chili powder: Infuses the casserole with deep, smoky, and mildly spicy undertones.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Provides an aromatic, savory foundation to complement the other spices.
- 1 teaspoon cumin: Adds earthiness and warmth that perfectly rounds out the flavor profile.
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano: Delivers a subtle herbal brightness, enhancing the Mexican-inspired vibe.
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt: Balances all the flavors and enhances the natural tastes of the ingredients.
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen: Offers sweet bursts of texture that contrast beautifully with the beans and rice.
- 14 oz can black beans, strained and rinsed: Provide fiber, richness, and a creamy texture that complements the chicken.
- 450 g cooked chicken, shredded: The protein star that adds heartiness and soaks up all the delicious spices.
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth: Keeps everything moist and brings all the ingredients together with savory depth.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing the veggies to unlock their sweetness and flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: Adds a rich, concentrated tomato flavor and subtle acidity that brightens the casserole.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Warm Up and Prepare the Veggies
Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s ready by the time your casserole mixture is combined. Then, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Toss in your diced red onion, bell pepper, and minced jalapeño, and sauté them gently until they soften and release their fragrant sweetness. This step builds the flavor foundation for your casserole and ensures every bite is bursting with fresh, vibrant taste.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Grab a large mixing bowl and add your sautéed vegetables along with the uncooked rice, shredded chicken, black beans, and corn kernels. Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle over the chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt. Don’t forget the tomato paste—it adds that rich tomatoey depth. Stir everything together until you have a beautifully combined mixture where the spices evenly coat the rice and other ingredients.
Step 3: Bake to Perfection
Lightly grease a 9×13 inch baking dish with oil or butter, then pour your mixture into it, spreading it out evenly. For an optional cheesy twist, sprinkle your favorite cheese on top—cheddar or Monterey Jack both work wonderfully here. Cover the dish with foil to trap in moisture and bake for 25 minutes, allowing the rice to begin cooking and flavors to meld. After that, remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10-15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top develops a slight golden crust. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow it to set.
How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your casserole is where you can get creative and really elevate your meal’s presentation and freshness. Sprinkle freshly sliced green onions or chopped cilantro over the top for a vibrant green pop of color and fresh flavor. If you like creamy contrast, dollops of sour cream or guacamole add a cooling effect that plays beautifully with the spice and warmth of the dish. A squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving can brighten all the flavors and add a subtle zing.
Side Dishes
This casserole shines on its own, but pairing it with simple sides can make your meal even more balanced and satisfying. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette is refreshing alongside the warm, hearty casserole. You might also enjoy serving some crunchy tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas for scooping. If you want to add some extra veggies, consider grilled corn on the cob or a colorful tomato and avocado salad to complement the flavors.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive twist, serve your Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets for a charming personal touch. Layering the casserole in clear glass dishes can showcase its beautiful colors, making your table look as delicious as the food tastes. Another fun idea is turning leftovers into burrito bowls—scoop a portion over rice or greens, and top with your favorite burrito-style toppings for a whole new meal experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover casserole to airtight containers and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors meld even further overnight, making the next-day serving a delight. Just be sure to keep the casserole covered to avoid drying out or absorbing other aromas from your fridge.
Freezing
This Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe freezes beautifully if you want to plan ahead. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or wrap the entire baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and plastic wrap. It will keep for up to 2 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge for best results before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, place leftovers in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil to retain moisture. Warm at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until heated through and bubbling. Alternatively, use the microwave for a quicker option—heat on medium power in shorter increments, stirring occasionally for even warmth. Adding a splash of chicken broth before reheating can help keep it nice and moist.
FAQs
Can I make this casserole vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms to keep it hearty and flavorful.
What type of cheese works best for topping?
Sharp cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a Mexican blend are popular choices that melt beautifully and complement the spices well.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but keep in mind brown rice takes longer to cook. You may need to pre-cook it or adjust the baking time to ensure it softens completely.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a gentle kick thanks to the jalapeño and chili powder; however, you can adjust the spice level up or down based on your taste by reducing or omitting the jalapeño.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Definitely! You can assemble the casserole up to a day before baking, keep it covered in the fridge, and then bake it fresh right before serving.
Final Thoughts
I honestly can’t get enough of this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe—it’s the kind of dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles and full bellies. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or making a comforting weeknight dinner, it offers incredible flavor, easy preparation, and plenty of room for your personal twists. Give it a try and watch it become one of your all-time favorite meals!
Print
Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty and flavorful baked dish combining tender shredded chicken, aromatic spices, sautéed vegetables, and rice, all simmered together then baked to perfection. This easy-to-make casserole is perfect for a family dinner, offering a delicious twist on classic burrito flavors in a comforting casserole form.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1 cup corn kernels, frozen
Proteins and Legumes
- 450 g cooked chicken, shredded
- 14 oz can black beans, strained and rinsed
Grains
- 1 cup dry long-grain white rice
Spices and Seasonings
- 2 tablespoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Liquids and Oils
- 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) ensuring it reaches the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced red onion, red bell pepper, and minced jalapeño and cook until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about 5–7 minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, mix together the sautéed vegetables, 1 cup dry long-grain white rice, shredded cooked chicken, black beans (drained and rinsed), frozen corn, 3 1/2 cups chicken broth, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 2 tablespoons chili powder, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1/2 teaspoon oregano, and 1/2 teaspoon sea salt until well combined.
- Prepare Baking Dish: Grease a 9×13 inch baking dish to prevent sticking. Pour the combined mixture evenly into the dish. Optionally, you can sprinkle cheese on top for added richness.
- Bake Covered: Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes to allow the rice to cook and the flavors to meld.
- Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is slightly golden.
- Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes after baking. Garnish with freshly chopped green onions if desired, then serve warm.
Notes
- You can add shredded cheese on top before baking for extra flavor and a cheesy crust.
- For a spicier kick, increase the amount of jalapeño or add cayenne pepper to the spices.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To make this dish gluten free, ensure the chicken broth and spices do not contain gluten additives.
