Packed full of protein, fiber, and veggies, this Chicken Burrito Casserole is the perfect dish for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for an easy meal prep idea or a simple weeknight dinner, this casserole delivers on flavor and nutrition. It’s not only satisfying but also versatile enough to be customized to suit your taste. Enjoy a wholesome meal that brings everyone together!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Prep Time: With only 10 minutes of prep needed, you can have this dish in the oven in no time.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with chicken, veggies, and beans, it’s a nutritious option for the whole family.
- One-Dish Wonder: Easy cleanup with everything cooked in one baking dish, saving you time and effort.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Customizable Flavor: Adjust the spice levels or add your favorite toppings to make it uniquely yours.
Tools and Preparation
To make your Chicken Burrito Casserole flawlessly, having the right tools on hand is essential.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large baking dish (9 x 13 inch)
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Mixing bowl or measuring cup
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Large baking dish: Ideal for holding all the ingredients together as they bake into a delicious casserole.
- Whisk: Ensures that your broth mixture is well combined for even flavor distribution.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 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 (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
How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you don’t have cooked chicken, bake the chicken breasts in the oven for about 25 minutes. Once cooked, transfer them to a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-size pieces.
Step 2: Prepare the Vegetables
In a large baking dish (9 x 13 inch), add:
Diced onion
Diced bell pepper
Minced jalapeño
Stir these together with:
Dry rice
Chili powder
Garlic powder
Cumin
Oregano
Sea salt
Step 3: Mix the Broth
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, combine:
Chicken broth
Tomato paste
Olive oil
Whisk until well combined.
Step 4: Combine Everything
Transfer the broth mixture into the baking dish with the rice mixture. Stir until everything is well mixed.
Step 5: Add Chicken and Beans
Add to the baking dish:
Shredded chicken
Strained black beans
Frozen corn
Give it one final stir until all ingredients are incorporated.
Step 6: Bake It All Together
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 50–60 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed.
Step 7: Add Cheese Topping
After baking, remove from oven and take off the foil. Sprinkle grated cheese on top of your casserole.
Step 8: Final Bake
Return it to the oven for an additional 5–10 minutes until cheese has melted and has a slightly golden color.
Step 9: Serve
Once done, remove from oven and let cool slightly. Serve warm with fresh cilantro and green onions sprinkled on top as desired.
Enjoy your delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole!
How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole
Chicken burrito casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up for a family gathering, these serving suggestions will enhance your dining experience.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor.
- Green Onions: Chopped green onions provide a crunchy texture.
Pair with Avocado
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado slices complement the spices perfectly.
- Guacamole: Serve a side of guacamole for extra richness.
Add Some Heat
- Hot Sauce: Drizzle your favorite hot sauce for those who enjoy spice.
- Sliced Jalapeños: Fresh jalapeños add a fresh and spicy kick.
Serve with Tortilla Chips
- Crunchy Chips: Offer tortilla chips on the side for scooping and crunch.
- Cheesy Nachos: Top some chips with cheese and serve alongside for a fun twist.
Include a Salad
- Simple Green Salad: A light salad balances the richness of the casserole.
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful salad pairs well with the dish.
How to Perfect Chicken Burrito Casserole
Achieving the perfect chicken burrito casserole is all about attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture in your casserole.
- Cook Rice Properly: Ensure the rice is cooked but not mushy; it should absorb flavors well.
- Layer Wisely: Distributing ingredients evenly ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spice level by adding more or less chili powder based on preference.
- Let It Rest: Allowing the casserole to rest before serving helps set the layers and makes serving easier.
- Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese for varied flavors, like pepper jack for added heat.
Best Side Dishes for Chicken Burrito Casserole
To complement your chicken burrito casserole, consider these delicious side dishes that enhance your meal’s overall experience.
- Mexican Rice: A flavorful side that pairs perfectly with the casserole’s spices.
- Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add a satisfying texture alongside the casserole.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to savory flavors.
- Coleslaw: A refreshing slaw adds crunch and balances the richness of the dish.
- Grilled Vegetables: Charred vegetables bring a smoky flavor that complements the casserole well.
- Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo provides brightness and acidity, enhancing each bite.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making Chicken Burrito Casserole, some common mistakes can lead to less than perfect results. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the Preheat: Not preheating the oven can cause uneven cooking. Always preheat to ensure your casserole cooks evenly and thoroughly.
- Ignoring Liquid Ratios: Using too little or too much liquid can affect texture. Stick to the recommended chicken broth amount for best results.
- Underestimating Cooking Time: Rushing the baking process may leave the rice uncooked. Allow enough time for the casserole to absorb all the liquids.
- Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting spices can make your dish bland. Be generous with seasonings like chili powder and cumin to enhance flavor.
- Overcrowding Ingredients: Adding too many ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe’s proportions for balanced flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
- Let the casserole cool completely before sealing it in containers.
Freezing Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Freeze in a suitable airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
- Label your container with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and reheat covered with foil for about 25-30 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat individual portions on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Place in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common queries about Chicken Burrito Casserole.
Can I use different proteins in Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Yes! Feel free to substitute shredded beef or turkey for chicken, or make it vegetarian by omitting meat entirely.
How can I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?
You can add more vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or mix in different cheeses according to your taste preferences.
Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten-based ingredients.
What can I serve with my Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Consider serving it with a side of guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salad for added flavor and texture.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for meal prep or a cozy weeknight dinner. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on your preferences. Give this recipe a try; you won’t be disappointed!
Chicken Burrito Casserole
Indulge in the comforting flavors of Chicken Burrito Casserole, a wholesome dish that brings together tender chicken, vibrant veggies, and savory spices. This one-dish wonder is not only quick to prepare but also nutritious, making it perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep for the week ahead. With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can customize this casserole to suit your taste preferences by adjusting spice levels or adding your favorite toppings. Serve it warm with fresh herbs and creamy avocado for a delightful meal that the whole family will love!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately six people 1x
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
- 1/2 red onion, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 jalapeño, minced
- 1 cup dry long-grain white rice
- 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
- 14 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 450g cooked chicken, shredded
- 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
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F.
- In a large baking dish, combine diced onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, dry rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth.
- Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish and stir well.
- Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the baking dish; mix thoroughly.
- Cover with foil and bake for 50–60 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove foil and sprinkle cheese on top; bake for an additional 5–10 minutes until melted and golden.
- Let cool slightly before serving topped with cilantro and green onions.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 casserole (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
