Looking for a hearty, all-in-one dinner that’s bursting with Mexican flavors? Chicken Burrito Casserole is your answer! This Baked Burrito Casserole combines tender shredded chicken, seasoned rice, vibrant veggies, and gooey melted cheese into a single dish that’s perfect for family dinners or meal prep. With bold fajita spices, creamy black beans, and a touch of heat, this Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole captures all the deliciousness of a burrito in a convenient, oven-baked format. Ready in about 90 minutes with minimal cleanup, this Mexican Chicken Casserole is a weeknight lifesaver and a crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
In this post, we’ll guide you through the easy steps to make Chicken Burrito Casserole, share customization tips, and suggest serving ideas to elevate your meal. Let’s dive into this cheesy, flavorful goodness!
Why You’ll Love Chicken Burrito Casserole
- One-Pan Magic: Everything cooks in a single baking dish, making prep and cleanup a breeze.
- Bold Mexican Flavors: Fajita seasoning, green chiles, and a hint of cayenne create a vibrant, zesty taste.
- Customizable: Swap proteins, veggies, or cheeses to suit your preferences.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Packed with chicken, rice, beans, and cheese for a filling meal.
- Perfect for Any Night: Ideal for busy weeknights, potlucks, or a fun twist on burrito night.
Ingredients for Chicken Burrito Casserole
Chicken Burrito Casserole comes together with simple, pantry-friendly ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious Mexican Chicken Casserole.
Casserole
- Shredded Chicken (2 cups, cooked): Use rotisserie chicken or pre-cooked chicken for convenience.
- Uncooked Parboiled Brown Rice (1 cup): Absorbs flavors as it bakes; long-grain white rice works too.
- Black Beans (1 can, 15 oz, drained and rinsed): Adds creamy texture and protein.
- Corn Kernels (1 cup, fresh or frozen): Brings a touch of sweetness and crunch.
- Onion (1 medium, diced): Provides a savory base.
- Red Bell Pepper (1, diced): Adds color and subtle sweetness.
- Mild Green Chiles (1 can, 4 oz): Infuses a mild, tangy kick.
- Monterey Jack Cheese (1.5 cups, shredded): Melts into a creamy, cheesy topping.
Seasoning and Broth
- Fajita Seasoning (2 tbsp): Delivers bold, smoky Mexican flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper (1/4 tsp, optional): For a spicy boost, adjust to taste.
- Tomato Paste (2 tbsp): Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
- Chicken Broth (2 cups): Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
- Olive Oil (2 tbsp): Enhances richness and blends flavors.
Garnish (Optional)
- Fresh Cilantro (chopped): Adds a fresh, herbaceous note.
- Green Onions (sliced): For a pop of color and mild onion flavor.
- Salsa, Sour Cream, or Avocado: For extra flavor and creaminess.
Step-by-Step Cooking Guide
Making Chicken Burrito Casserole is as easy as layering ingredients and letting the oven do the work. Follow these steps for a delicious Baked Burrito Casserole.
1: Preheat and Prep
- Preheat Oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add diced onion, red bell pepper, uncooked brown rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to mix evenly.
2: Prepare the Broth Mixture
- Mix Broth: In a medium bowl, whisk together chicken broth, green chiles, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth.
- Add to Dish: Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish and stir to combine with the rice and veggies.
3: Add Chicken, Beans, and Corn
- Layer Ingredients: Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn kernels to the baking dish.
- Mix Well: Stir everything together to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4: Bake the Casserole
- Cover and Bake: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 65-70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Check Consistency: If the casserole looks soupy, stir gently and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes uncovered.
5: Add Cheese and Finish
- Top with Cheese: Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top.
- Melt Cheese: Return the dish to the oven and bake uncovered for 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6: Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole
Let the Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole cool for 5-10 minutes. Garnish with cilantro, green onions, salsa, sour cream, or avocado slices, and serve warm.
Chef’s Tips for Perfect Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Use Rotisserie Chicken: Save time by using pre-shredded rotisserie chicken for extra flavor.
- Check Rice Doneness: Ensure the rice is fully cooked before adding cheese; if needed, add a splash of broth and bake longer.
- Homemade Fajita Seasoning: Mix paprika, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder for a custom blend.
- Prevent Sticking: Lightly grease the baking dish with oil or non-stick spray before adding ingredients.
- Add Heat Gradually: Taste the mixture before baking and adjust cayenne or add jalapeños for extra spice.
Serving Suggestions
Make Chicken Burrito Casserole the star of your meal with these serving ideas:
- Garnishes: Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, salsa, sour cream, or diced avocado for a burst of flavor.
- Side Dishes: Pair with a crisp green salad, tortilla chips, or Mexican street corn for a complete meal.
- Burrito Style: Scoop the casserole into warm flour tortillas and roll up for a handheld Baked Burrito Casserole experience.
- Party Platter: Serve family-style with a variety of toppings for guests to customize their portions.
- Drink Pairing: Enjoy with a refreshing margarita, iced tea, or a Mexican soda like Jarritos.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers Chicken Burrito Casserole
Mexican Chicken Casserole is perfect for leftovers or meal prep. Here’s how to store and reheat:
- Store: Place in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm in the microwave in 30-second intervals or in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Freeze: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Make-Ahead Tip: Assemble the casserole (without cheese) up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake as directed, adding cheese in the final step.
Variations and Substitutions
Customize Chicken Burrito Casserole to suit your taste or pantry:
- Cheese Swap: Use cheddar, pepper jack, or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor profile.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced zucchini, tomatoes, jalapeños, or spinach for more color and nutrition.
- Protein Options: Swap chicken for ground beef, turkey, or shredded pork for a twist.
- Vegetarian: Omit chicken and double the beans or add sautéed mushrooms for a meat-free Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole.
- Seasoning Switch: Use taco seasoning or chili powder instead of fajita seasoning.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce before baking.
FAQs About Chicken Burrito Casserole
Can I use a different type of rice?
Yes, long-grain white rice or jasmine rice works well. Adjust cooking time slightly, as white rice may cook faster.
How do I make it spicier?
Add extra cayenne pepper, diced jalapeños, or a sprinkle of chili flakes before baking.
Can I make it vegetarian?
Omit the chicken and add more black beans, pinto beans, or roasted vegetables for a hearty vegetarian version.
What toppings go well with this casserole?
Top with sour cream, salsa, guacamole, chopped cilantro, or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor.
Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, but reduce the chicken broth to 1/2 cup and bake for 20-25 minutes to heat through, then add cheese.
More summer dinner recipe ideas you’ll love
- Sweet and Spicy Honey Pepper Chicken
- 3 Ingredient Orange Chicken
- French Dip Sliders
- Sheet Pan Shrimp Boil
- Meatball Sub
Conclusion
Chicken Burrito Casserole is the ultimate one-pan meal, bringing all the bold, cheesy goodness of a burrito into a hearty, oven-baked dish. Perfect for weeknights, potlucks, or a fun twist on Mexican night, this Mexican Chicken and Rice Casserole is as easy to make as it is delicious. Customize it with your favorite veggies, spices,asayfa
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Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Ingredients
- 1/2 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
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper optional
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 14 oz can low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
- 5 cups shredded chicken about 1 rotisserie chicken
- 3 cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 1 4 oz can mild green chiles
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
Preheat Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
Combine Ingredients in Baking Dish:
- In the baking dish, combine the diced onion, bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
Prepare Broth Mixture:
- In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, green chiles, tomato paste, and olive oil until smooth.
Add Broth to Casserole:
- Pour the broth mixture over the rice mixture in the baking dish. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Add Chicken, Beans, and Corn:
- Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the baking dish. Stir to combine all ingredients.
Bake the Casserole:
- Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 65-70 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Add Cheese Topping:
- Once the casserole is done, remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Return the baking dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and golden.
Serve:
- Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro, green onion, salsa, or avocado if desired.
Notes
- Cooking Time: The baking time may vary based on your oven and the type of rice used. Check for doneness after 65 minutes, and bake longer if needed.
- Rice Consistency: If the casserole is still a bit soupy, stir to redistribute the liquid, cover, and continue baking until most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Shredded Chicken: Use rotisserie chicken for convenience, or cook and shred boneless, skinless chicken breasts.
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