Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

If your family loves Mexican food, whip together this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole for a delightful and low-prep dinner! This dish combines the flavors of your favorite burritos into a single casserole that is simple to prepare. It’s packed with protein and is perfect for weeknight meals, potlucks, or any casual gathering.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this casserole ready to bake.
• Flavorful and Satisfying: Loaded with spices and ingredients that pack a punch, this dish offers all the deliciousness of traditional burritos.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize your casserole by adding or swapping ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Family-Friendly: This recipe serves eight, making it perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week.
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken and wholesome ingredients, this casserole is a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before getting started, gather the essential tools to make your cooking experience smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• 9×13 inch baking dish: The ideal size for cooking this casserole evenly and accommodating all ingredients.
• Mixing bowls: Useful for combining ingredients before adding them to the baking dish.
• Measuring cups: Ensures accurate measurements for perfect results every time.
• Whisk: Helps blend liquid ingredients smoothly, ensuring even distribution in the casserole.

Ingredients

For the Casserole Base

• 1/2 cup finely diced onion
• 1 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (can also use long grain white rice)
• 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For Additional Flavor and Texture

• 1 cup corn kernels (frozen)
• 1 14 ounce can low sodium black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 5 cups shredded chicken

For the Sauce

• 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
• 1 4 ounce can mild green chilies
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

For Topping

• 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.

Step 2: Combine Base Ingredients

In a 9×13 inch baking dish, add:
Finely diced onion
Diced red bell pepper
Uncooked rice
Fajita seasoning
Cayenne pepper (if using)

Stir these ingredients together until well combined.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together:
Reduced sodium chicken broth
Mild green chilies
Tomato paste
Olive oil

Ensure everything is well mixed.

Step 4: Mix Everything Together

Pour the broth mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish. Stir to combine thoroughly.

Step 5: Add Remaining Ingredients

Add:
Shredded chicken
Drained black beans
Frozen corn

Give everything another good stir until well mixed.

Step 6: Bake Covered

Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for 65–70 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.

Step 7: Add Cheese Topping

After baking, remove the foil. Evenly sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the casserole. Return it to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy!

Remove from oven. Allow to cool for about 5–10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onion, salsa, or avocado if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only delicious but also versatile when it comes to serving. You can easily customize your meal with various toppings and sides that complement the flavors of the dish.

Toppings

• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy texture and balances the spices.
• Guacamole: Fresh guacamole brings a rich, buttery taste that pairs wonderfully with the casserole.
• Salsa: Choose your favorite salsa for an extra kick and freshness.
• Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle on some fresh cilantro for a burst of herbal flavor.

Sides

• Mexican Rice: Serve alongside seasoned rice for a filling meal.
• Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans make a great side, adding additional protein.
• Corn Salad: A light corn salad can offer a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
• Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips are perfect for scooping up servings of the casserole.

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How to Perfect Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

To ensure your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Leftover Chicken: Utilizing leftover or rotisserie chicken can save time and add flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: If you prefer a milder dish, reduce or skip the cayenne pepper.
• Layer Ingredients Carefully: For even cooking, layer ingredients evenly in the baking dish.
• Check Liquid Levels: Make sure there’s enough liquid for the rice to cook properly; adjust chicken broth as needed.

Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Pairing your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole with the right side dishes enhances the overall dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Spanish Rice: This flavorful rice dish complements Mexican flavors beautifully and is easy to prepare.
2. Black Bean Salad: A healthy option that adds protein and fiber while being refreshing and colorful.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Charred veggies provide a smoky flavor that balances well with the casserole’s richness.
4. Simple Green Salad: A crisp salad made with lettuce, tomatoes, and avocado offers a fresh crunch.
5. Elote (Mexican Street Corn): This sweet corn dish topped with cheese and spices makes an indulgent side.
6. Chips and Salsa: A classic combination that adds crunch and zest, ideal for snacking before or after dinner.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole, avoid these common mistakes for the best results.

• Skipping the seasoning – Fajita seasoning adds flavor. Don’t skip it; adjust the amount according to your taste preferences.
• Overcooking the rice – Parboiled rice cooks perfectly in the casserole. Make sure you don’t pre-cook it too much before adding it to the dish.
• Not covering the dish – Covering with foil helps steam cook the casserole. If you don’t cover it, the top may dry out before cooking through.
• Ignoring ingredient temperatures – Using cold chicken broth can affect cooking time. Always use room temperature or slightly warm broth for even cooking.
• Underestimating serving sizes – This recipe serves eight, but people with big appetites might want seconds. Keep this in mind when planning portions!

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

• Use a freezer-safe container for storage.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

• Oven – Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Heat until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power for 3-5 minutes, checking regularly.
• Stovetop – Transfer to a skillet with a splash of broth or water. Cook over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a one-dish meal that combines shredded chicken, rice, beans, and spices baked together for a delicious family dinner.

Can I customize my Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or swap out proteins like beef or turkey. You can also adjust spice levels based on preference.

How do I make this recipe gluten-free?

Ensure you use gluten-free fajita seasoning and double-check that all other ingredients are labeled gluten-free, especially chicken broth.

What sides pair well with Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Serve with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips and salsa for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal without much hassle. Its versatility allows you to customize ingredients to match your family’s tastes, making it a go-to recipe you’ll return to time and again. Don’t hesitate to try it out!