Name: Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked shredded chicken; 2 cups cooked white or brown rice; 1 can (15 oz black beans, drained and rinsed); 1 can (15 oz corn, drained); 1 can (10 oz diced tomatoes with green chilies); 1 cup salsa; 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon onion powder; Salt and pepper (to taste); ½ cup diced bell peppers; ½ cup sliced black olives; Fresh cilantro for garnish; Sliced jalapeños for heat

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Intro

There’s something irresistible about a warm, cheesy casserole packed with chicken, beans, rice, and bold Mexican flavors. I still remember the first time I made this Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe on a chilly evening when I wanted comfort food that would feed my whole family without spending hours in the kitchen. The aroma of seasoned chicken, melted cheese, and spices filled my kitchen and instantly made it feel like home.

As a female chef, I’ve always loved recipes that are both easy and impressive. This casserole hits that sweet spot. Every bite is a perfect combination of tender chicken, fluffy rice, hearty beans, and creamy cheese, all wrapped together with flavorful seasonings. It’s like your favorite burrito, but in the form of a cozy, one-dish dinner.

This Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is versatile, simple, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or hosting friends, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What is Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Chicken Burrito Casserole is a layered dish that takes all the best elements of a chicken burrito and turns them into a baked, cheesy casserole.

Typically, it combines shredded chicken, rice, beans, salsa, and cheese, all seasoned with spices like cumin, chili powder, and garlic. Some variations include corn, bell peppers, or even diced tomatoes for extra texture.

What makes this recipe unique is its convenience. Instead of rolling individual burritos, everything is layered in a casserole dish and baked to perfection. The cheese melts over the top, the edges get slightly crispy, and the center stays creamy and comforting.

Why I Love This Recipe

This easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is a favorite because it’s flexible and forgiving. You can use leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken, adjust the spices to your liking, and even swap ingredients based on what’s in your pantry. Despite being simple to make, it tastes like a restaurant-quality dish that everyone will rave about.

It’s also perfect for batch cooking. I often make a big casserole, serve it for dinner, and enjoy leftovers throughout the week. It reheats beautifully, and the flavors deepen over time.

Equipment List

9×13-inch baking dish
Mixing bowls
Spoon or spatula
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Ingredients

3 cups cooked shredded chicken
2 cups cooked white or brown rice
1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 cup salsa
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar or Mexican blend cheese
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional ingredients:

½ cup diced bell peppers
½ cup sliced black olives
Fresh cilantro for garnish
Sliced jalapeños for heat

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.

Step 2: Mix the Filling

In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies, salsa, and spices. Mix until everything is evenly coated.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Spoon half of the chicken mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle half of the cheese over the top. Add the remaining chicken mixture, then top with the remaining cheese.

Step 4: Bake

Cover the casserole with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or diced bell peppers if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Serving Suggestions

Serve with sour cream or guacamole on the side
Pair with a simple green salad or Mexican rice
Top with hot sauce for extra spice
Serve with tortilla chips for a fun, crunchy element

Chef’s Tips

Use rotisserie chicken to save time
Leftover rice works perfectly in this recipe
Adjust the spice level to your family’s taste
Add a layer of tortillas at the bottom for a burrito-style twist

Make It Your Own

Swap black beans for pinto beans or kidney beans
Add corn salsa or fire-roasted tomatoes for extra flavor
Mix in cooked quinoa for a healthier alternative
Experiment with different cheeses like Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack

FAQs

Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, assemble the casserole and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.

Can I freeze Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Yes, cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just make sure it’s fully cooked before adding to the casserole.

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, all the main ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is a family-friendly, versatile, and delicious meal that’s perfect for any night of the week. With layers of chicken, beans, rice, and melted cheese, it’s like a cozy, comforting burrito in a dish. Easy to prepare, easy to serve, and even easier to love, this casserole will become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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