Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
If your family loves Mexican food, whip together this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole for an effortless, low-prep dinner! This dish captures the flavors of your favorite burritos but can be made in one big casserole dish with simple ingredients. It’s packed with protein, making it a satisfying and healthy meal suitable for any occasion—be it a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With just 10 minutes of prep, you can have this delicious casserole ready to bake.
- One-Dish Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one baking dish.
- Flavorful and Filling: Loaded with chicken, beans, and spices, it offers a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Customizable Options: You can easily modify ingredients based on what you have or your dietary preferences.
- Great for Meal Prep: Perfect for leftovers, making it a convenient option for busy days.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather all necessary tools. The right equipment will streamline your preparation and ensure a perfect casserole.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
Importance of Each Tool
- 9×13 inch baking dish: Ideal size for evenly cooking the casserole and ensuring all ingredients meld together beautifully.
- Mixing bowl: Helps mix ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the baking dish.
- Whisk: Ensures that liquid ingredients combine smoothly without lumps.
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
Grains
- 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (can also use long grain white rice)
Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Proteins & Legumes
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen)
- 1 14 ounce can low sodium black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 5 cups shredded chicken
Liquids & Condiments
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 4 ounce can mild green chilies
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Cheese
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. This ensures that your casserole starts baking at the right temperature.
Step 2: Prepare the Base Mixture
In the 9×13 inch baking dish:
1. Add the finely diced onion, diced bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Stir to combine all the ingredients well.
Step 3: Mix Liquid Ingredients
In a separate mixing bowl:
1. Whisk together the chicken broth, mild green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until well combined.
2. Pour this mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish and stir gently to combine.
Step 4: Add Proteins and Corn
To the baking dish:
1. Add the shredded chicken, drained black beans, and frozen corn.
2. Stir again until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 5: Bake the Casserole
Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 65-70 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Once baked:
1. Remove from oven and carefully take off the aluminum foil.
2. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
Step 7: Final Bake
Return the baking dish to the oven uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted and slightly golden.
Step 8: Serve
Remove from oven and let cool for about 5-10 minutes. Serve warm topped with fresh cilantro, green onions, salsa, or avocado if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Serving Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a breeze, and there are plenty of delicious options to enhance your meal. Whether you’re entertaining guests or enjoying a family dinner, these suggestions will elevate the dish.
Top It Off with Fresh Ingredients
- Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a mild onion flavor and crunch.
- Salsa: Serve with your favorite salsa for an extra kick.
- Avocado: Creamy avocado slices can balance the spice and add richness.
Pair with Crunchy Sides
- Tortilla Chips: Crispy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up this casserole.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad complements the casserole’s flavors beautifully.
Add Some Dairy Delight
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can help cool down the heat if you used cayenne pepper.
- Guacamole: Rich guacamole pairs well with the spices in the casserole.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
To make your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole even better, consider these helpful tips. They ensure a flavorful and satisfying dish every time you prepare it.
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: For even quicker prep, use store-bought rotisserie chicken instead of cooking your own.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spice by modifying the amount of fajita seasoning or cayenne pepper based on your preference.
- Layer Ingredients: For a more flavorful dish, layer some cheese between ingredients before baking.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set and makes serving easier.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Complementing your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole with side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some great options:
- Mexican Rice: Fluffy Mexican rice adds substance and pairs perfectly with the casserole’s flavors.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans offer a hearty addition that complements Mexican cuisine well.
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and lime vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast.
- Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that works nicely alongside the casserole.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a delightful side that balances out savory dishes like burrito casserole.
- Black Bean Salad: A chilled black bean salad can add both protein and fiber while enhancing flavor profiles.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making an Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for a successful dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Fajita seasoning adds flavor. Don’t forget to mix it in well with your rice and veggies for that authentic taste.
- Using cold chicken: Cold shredded chicken can cool down your casserole. Ensure it’s at room temperature or warm for even cooking.
- Not covering the dish: Covering the casserole keeps moisture in while baking. Leaving it uncovered can lead to a dry outcome.
- Omitting the cheese layer: Cheese not only adds flavor but also binds ingredients. Always sprinkle it on top before the final bake.
- Ignoring cooking times: Each oven is different. Check for doneness around the minimum time and adjust if necessary to avoid overcooking.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Allow the casserole to cool completely.
- Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F. Cover with foil and reheat for 20-25 minutes until warm throughout.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat on medium power for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about making an Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole.
Can I use other proteins instead of chicken?
Yes! You can easily substitute shredded beef or turkey if you prefer.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, replace chicken with more beans and add extra vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.
What sides pair well with Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Serve with a fresh salad, guacamole, or tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.
Can I make this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble everything the night before and store it in the fridge. Just bake when you’re ready!
Final Thoughts
The Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or gatherings. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices. Give this recipe a try; you’ll love how easy it is!
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x
Description
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delightful one-dish meal that combines all your favorite Mexican flavors into a hearty casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein from shredded chicken and black beans, making it a satisfying choice for everyone at the table. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this flavorful casserole in one baking dish, minimizing cleanup while maximizing taste. Serve it warm, topped with fresh cilantro or creamy avocado, and watch it become a family favorite!
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
- 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice
- 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen)
- 1 14 ounce can low sodium black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 4 ounce can mild green chilies
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and optional cayenne pepper.
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil. Pour over the rice mixture and stir gently.
- Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the baking dish; mix well.
- Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 65-70 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove foil and sprinkle cheese on top; bake uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until cheese is melted.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 440
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 590mg
- Fat: 11g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 61g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 75mg
