Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a satisfying, one-dish dinner that brings the flavors of your favorite burritos into a family-friendly casserole. Loaded with chicken, rice, beans, and cheese, this hearty meal is perfect for busy weeknights or when you’re craving Mexican-inspired comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Meal: Easy to prep, cook, and clean up.
• Loaded with Protein: Chicken, black beans, and cheese make it a filling and healthy option.
• Customizable: Adapt it to suit your family’s tastes or dietary preferences.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Makes great leftovers for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ½ cup finely diced onion
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (or long-grain white rice)
• 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
• ⅛ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 cup frozen corn kernels
• 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 tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1¼ cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Combine Rice Mixture

• In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix together the onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using).

3. Prepare Broth Mixture

• In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, green chilies, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth.

4. Assemble the Casserole

• Pour the broth mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish and stir to combine.
• Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn, mixing everything together until evenly distributed.

5. Bake

• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 65–70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is fully absorbed.

6. Add Cheese

• Remove the foil, sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top, and return the dish to the oven.
• Bake for an additional 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and slightly golden.

7. Cool and Serve

• Remove the casserole from the oven and let it cool for 5–10 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Yield: 8 servings
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace the chicken with extra beans, tofu, or sautéed vegetables.
• Spicy Kick: Use spicy fajita seasoning and diced jalapeños.
• Cheese Alternatives: Swap Monterey Jack for cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the fajita seasoning and broth are gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use cooked rice instead of uncooked?

Yes, but reduce the liquid by about 1½ cups since the rice is already cooked.

2. How do I shred chicken easily?

Use two forks to pull the chicken apart, or shred it with a hand mixer for a faster method.

3. Can I use rotisserie chicken?

Yes, rotisserie chicken is a convenient and flavorful option.

4. What can I use instead of Monterey Jack cheese?

Cheddar, Colby, or mozzarella are great alternatives.

5. How can I make it spicier?

Add diced jalapeños, use spicy fajita seasoning, or mix in hot sauce.

6. Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Zucchini, diced tomatoes, or mushrooms work well in this dish.

7. What’s the best way to serve this casserole?

Serve with a side of tortilla chips, salsa, sour cream, or guacamole for a complete meal.

8. Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish (without baking) and store it covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready.

9. Can I use canned corn instead of frozen?

Yes, drain the canned corn before adding it to the casserole.

10. What if the rice isn’t fully cooked after baking?

Add a little more broth, cover the dish with foil, and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes.

Conclusion

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines the best of burrito flavors into one simple, baked meal. Packed with protein and Mexican-inspired spices, this casserole is sure to be a hit with your family. Serve it up with your favorite sides for a dinner that’s as satisfying as it is easy!

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