Chicken Burrito Casserole

If you’re looking for a dish that brings everyone to the table with smiles, let me introduce you to my beloved Chicken Burrito Casserole. This recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, packed with protein, fiber, and all the good stuff that makes a meal feel wholesome. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for family gatherings or meal prep for the week ahead!

What I love most about this Chicken Burrito Casserole is how easy it is to throw together. You can customize it based on what you have on hand, and it always comes out deliciously satisfying. Trust me, once you make this, it will quickly become a staple in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: Just toss everything into one baking dish and let the oven do the work!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love digging into this flavorful casserole.
• Meal Prep Hero: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week without fuss.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or adjust spices to suit your taste!
• Delicious Leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create our Chicken Burrito Casserole! You’ll find that these items are easy to source and come together beautifully for a hearty 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 (about 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 Chicken Burrito Casserole is its flexibility! Feel free to modify it based on your preferences or what you have in your pantry.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some zucchini, spinach, or any leftover vegetables you have for added nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick or a dairy-free cheese alternative if needed.
• Make it spicier: Increase the amount of jalapeño or add some diced green chilies for an extra layer of heat.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

First things first—preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). If you’re starting with raw chicken breasts, pop them in now! Bake them for about 25 minutes until they are fully cooked. Shredding them after they cool slightly will make adding them to the casserole easy-peasy.

Step 2: Combine Your Veggies and Rice

In a large baking dish (I use a 9 x 13 inch), combine all those beautiful veggies: onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, along with rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and salt. Give it all a good stir! Mixing these ingredients at this stage helps infuse their flavors into the rice as it cooks.

Step 3: Mix the Broth Mixture

In another bowl or measuring cup, whisk together chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined. This mixture adds moisture and flavor to our casserole—don’t skip this step!

Step 4: Combine Everything Together

Pour that tasty broth mixture over your veggie-rice blend in the baking dish. Stir until everything is nicely incorporated. Then gently fold in shredded chicken, black beans, and corn. It should be colorful and fragrant!

Step 5: Bake It Up

Cover your baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and slide it into the oven. Bake for about 50-60 minutes until all of that delicious liquid has been absorbed by the rice. Don’t peek too often; we want all those flavors to marry!

Step 6: Add Cheese Topping

Once baked, take off the foil and sprinkle grated cheese over the top. Return it back to the oven uncovered for another 5-10 minutes until that cheese is melted and slightly golden brown—yum!

Step 7: Serve It Right

After removing from the oven, give it a few minutes to cool. When ready to serve, top with fresh cilantro and green onions. Enjoy every bite of this comforting Chicken Burrito Casserole with family and friends!

Pro Tips for Making Chicken Burrito Casserole

Making a delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole is easy, and with a few helpful tips, you can elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Opt for fresh vegetables whenever possible. Fresh ingredients not only enhance the flavor but also add more nutrients to your casserole.

• Customize the spice level: If you love heat, consider adding more jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Adjusting the spice level to your preference ensures that everyone at the table enjoys this dish.

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the casserole to cool slightly after baking helps the flavors meld together and makes it easier to serve. This simple step can make a big difference in texture and taste!

• Double the recipe for meal prep: This casserole freezes well, so consider making a double batch. You can enjoy leftovers throughout the week or have an easy meal ready to go on busy days.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t be afraid to get creative! Adding toppings like avocado, sour cream, or fresh lime juice can add layers of flavor that take your casserole to the next level.

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving your Chicken Burrito Casserole can be as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to present this hearty dish that will impress your family or guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced green onions: These bring a mild onion flavor and a pop of color, enhancing both presentation and taste.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado slices or guacamole provide richness and balance out the spices in the casserole.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty casserole.
• Spanish rice: Seasoned rice with garlic, onions, and tomatoes pairs wonderfully with this dish for an extra dose of flavor.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is perfect for soaking up any extra sauce from the casserole while adding a delightful sweetness to your meal.
• Roasted veggies: Oven-roasted vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots not only taste great but also add color and nutrition to your plate.

With these serving ideas and tips in mind, you’re all set to enjoy an amazing Chicken Burrito Casserole experience! Whether it’s for a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish is sure to please.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only delicious but also a fantastic option for meal prep! You can easily prepare it in advance, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before storing.
• Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy within 3-4 days for the best flavor and freshness.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the casserole cool completely.
• Wrap tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil or place it in a freezer-safe container.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• For best results, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the casserole with aluminum foil to prevent drying out.
• Heat for about 20-30 minutes or until warmed through. Alternatively, you can reheat individual portions in the microwave.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe!

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

Yes! You can substitute brown rice for white rice; just be sure to adjust the cooking time as brown rice may take longer to cook.

How can I make Chicken Burrito Casserole vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the chicken and add extra beans or vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms for added protein and flavor.

What sides go well with Chicken Burrito Casserole?

This casserole pairs nicely with a simple green salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips on the side for an extra crunch.

Can I customize the ingredients in my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap out cheese varieties to suit your taste.

How long does Chicken Burrito Casserole last in the fridge?

When stored properly, it will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Chicken Burrito Casserole as much as I do! It’s a comforting dish that brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for any dinner table. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it fresh from the oven, it’s bound to become a family favorite. Happy cooking!