There is nothing quite like the comforting warmth and vibrant flavors of a Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe to bring friends and family together around the table. This dish masterfully combines tender shredded chicken with hearty brown rice, zesty spices, and creamy cheese, creating a one-pan meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with Tex-Mex flair. Whether you’re craving a weeknight dinner or feeding a crowd, this casserole delivers layers of flavor and texture that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe lies in its simplicity and the way each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final dish. From the fresh crunch of diced bell peppers to the wholesome bite of brown rice, every component adds depth and color that makes the casserole truly special.
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when baked.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings bright color and a mild, fruity crunch.
- 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice: Provides a hearty, nutty base that soaks up all the flavors.
- 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning: Infuses the dish with smoky, spicy notes essential to Tex-Mex cooking.
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels: Sweet bursts of texture complement the savory layers.
- 1 (14-ounce) can low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed: Provides creaminess and fiber while balancing the spice.
- 5 cups shredded cooked chicken: The star protein that makes the casserole hearty and satisfying.
- 3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth: Keeps the casserole moist and infuses it with rich flavor.
- 1 (4-ounce) can mild green chilies: Lends gentle heat and a subtle tang.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Adds a burst of concentrated tomato flavor and depth.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Helps marry the ingredients and prevents sticking.
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into a creamy, gooey topping that crowns the casserole beautifully.
How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Veggies
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s ready when your casserole is assembled. Next, toss the finely diced onion, red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper directly into your baking dish and give everything a good stir. This blend sets the flavor foundation with vibrant spices and fresh veggies.
Step 2: Combine the Broth Mixture
Whisk together the reduced-sodium chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil in a separate bowl. This liquid mixture is what will cook the rice evenly and infuse the entire casserole with rich, tangy, and spicy undertones.
Step 3: Bring the Ingredients Together
Pour your broth mixture over the vegetable and rice base in the baking dish, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Then fold in the shredded cooked chicken, rinsed black beans, and frozen corn kernels. This ensures every bite of your Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe bursts with layers of flavor and satisfying textures.
Step 4: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish tightly with foil and pop it into your oven for 65 to 70 minutes. This slow baking allows the rice to absorb the broth and spices while the vegetables soften, melding all the vibrant components into one delicious whole.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Finish Baking
Once the covered baking time is up, carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the casserole. Return it to the oven uncovered and bake for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is perfectly melted, golden, and bubbly, creating that irresistibly creamy topping.
Step 6: Cool Slightly and Serve
Allow the Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe to cool for a few minutes before serving. This brief rest lets everything set gently, making it easier to slice and ensuring the flavors settle beautifully.
How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Top your casserole with fresh cilantro, a dollop of sour cream, or sliced green onions to add bursts of freshness and enhance the colorful presentation. A squeeze of lime over each serving brightens the rich flavors and gives a delightful zesty finish.
Side Dishes
This casserole pairs wonderfully with simple sides like a crisp green salad or a vibrant tomato salsa to balance the hearty texture. For a heartier meal, Mexican-style rice or refried beans complement the casserole perfectly and add variety to the table.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the casserole in individual ramekins for an elegant touch or pile it high in a large, rustic serving dish for family-style dining. Adding avocado slices or a drizzle of chipotle sauce on top can also elevate the experience, making your Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe feel like a restaurant-quality meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover casserole in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to four days. It maintains its flavors well, making it a perfect option for next-day lunches or quick dinners during the week.
Freezing
You can also freeze this casserole after baking: let it cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil. It will keep well in the freezer for up to three months, allowing you to enjoy the deliciousness of this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe any time you want.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight if frozen, then warm in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through. For a quicker fix, microwave individual portions until steaming hot, adding a little extra cheese on top for a fresh melt.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice in this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe?
Yes! You can substitute white rice, but be aware it may require less cooking time, so watch the casserole closely to avoid overcooking. Parboiled brown rice gives a nuttier flavor and chewier texture which works wonderfully here.
Is it okay to use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using pre-cooked rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut that saves time without sacrificing flavor. Just shred the chicken and add it in at the step indicated.
Can I make this casserole spicy?
If you love heat, feel free to add extra cayenne, use hotter green chilies, or include some chopped jalapeños. Adjusting the spice levels is easy and will tailor the Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe to your family’s taste buds.
What can I use if I don’t have fajita seasoning?
You can create your own mix using chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and a pinch of salt. This homemade blend works just as well and lets you control the flavors exactly.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! The Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe holds up beautifully when made ahead. It reheats well and provides filling, nutritious meals throughout your busy week.
Final Thoughts
I truly believe this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is a game-changer for anyone who loves bold, comforting meals that come together effortlessly. It’s a dish that invites you to dive right in, savor every spoonful, and share something truly special. Give it a try and watch it become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
Print
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: Mexican-American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This hearty Chicken Burrito Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, brown rice, beans, and vegetables seasoned with fajita spices and baked to perfection with melted Monterey Jack cheese. It’s a comforting, flavorful one-dish meal perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Rice
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
Seasonings and Spices
- 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper
Proteins
- 5 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 1 (14-ounce) can low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
Liquids and Sauces
- 3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (4-ounce) can mild green chilies
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Dairy
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F to ensure it’s hot and ready for baking the casserole.
- Mix Vegetables and Rice: In a baking dish, combine the diced onion, red bell pepper, uncooked brown rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to evenly distribute the spices and vegetables.
- Prepare Broth Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth. This mixture will add flavor and moisture to the rice and other ingredients.
- Combine and Stir: Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish with the rice and vegetables. Stir thoroughly to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Chicken, Beans, and Corn: Add the shredded cooked chicken, drained black beans, and frozen corn kernels to the baking dish. Mix well to distribute everything uniformly.
- Bake Covered: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 65 to 70 minutes. This allows the rice to cook fully and the flavors to meld.
- Add Cheese and Finish Baking: Carefully remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 5 to 10 minutes, until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Cool and Serve: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes to set, then serve warm.
Notes
- Use parboiled brown rice for best texture and consistent cooking time.
- Shredded cooked chicken can be from rotisserie or leftover roasted chicken.
- Covering with foil during baking traps steam to cook the rice thoroughly.
- Allow casserole to rest before serving to make slicing and serving easier.
- For a spicier dish, increase the cayenne pepper slightly or use hot green chilies.
