If you crave a comforting, flavorful meal that comes together with minimal fuss, this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is exactly what you need. It’s a vibrant medley of tender chicken, perfectly cooked rice, and colorful veggies, all baked to bubbly, savory perfection in one dish. The fajita seasoning and mild green chilies add just the right kick without overpowering, making each bite a warm, satisfying experience. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or prepping for easy weekday dinners, this casserole brings heartwarming taste and effortless cooking into your kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of the Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is how straightforward the ingredients are, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the aromatic onion and bell pepper to the hearty chicken and beans, every element contributes to making this casserole a festive and filling favorite.
- 1 small onion, finely diced: Adds a sweet, savory base flavor that melds perfectly with spices.
- 1 red bell pepper, diced: Brings sweetness and a pop of vibrant color.
- 1 ½ cups uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (or long-grain white rice): Provides a nutty, chewy texture that soaks up all the delicious juices.
- 1 tbsp fajita seasoning: The star spice blend that infuses the casserole with warm, smoky notes.
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a gentle heat boost if you like things a bit spicy.
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels: Sweet, crisp bursts that contrast nicely with the tender rice and chicken.
- 1 can (15 oz) low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed: Adds creamy texture and plant-based protein.
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken: The hearty protein that makes this dish filling and satisfying.
- 2 ½ cups reduced-sodium chicken broth: Keeps everything moist while adding rich, savory depth.
- 1 can (4 oz) mild green chilies: Subtle heat and complex flavor that wake up the palate.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: Helps bring all ingredients together smoothly and enhances overall richness.
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare Your Base
Start by heating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This high heat is perfect for getting the rice tender and the vegetables and chicken beautifully melded together. While the oven warms up, gather your diced onion, red bell pepper, rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if you’re opting for that extra kick). Combine these dry ingredients right in your 9×13-inch baking dish—this layering sets the flavor foundation for your casserole.
Step 2: Mix the Liquid Ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, mild green chilies, and olive oil. This combination not only infuses the casserole with moisture but also balances spice and richness. Pour this liquid mixture evenly over the dry ingredients in your baking dish, then stir gently to make sure everything is evenly coated. This helps the rice cook up fluffy and full of flavor.
Step 3: Add the Protein and Veggies
Now it’s time to add the shredded cooked chicken, black beans, and frozen corn to the dish. Stir these in evenly, distributing the mix of textures and flavors throughout the casserole. This step is key to making sure each bite includes a bit of everything you love about burrito flavors—protein, sweetness, and a touch of heartiness.
Step 4: Cover and Bake
Cover your casserole tightly with aluminum foil to trap moisture. Bake it in your preheated oven for 65 to 70 minutes. During this time, the rice will absorb the broth and chilies, becoming tender and flavorful, while the chicken and veggies meld into an irresistible one-dish meal.
Step 5: Rest Before Serving
Once baking is complete, take the dish out and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. This pause allows the casserole to set slightly so when you scoop it onto plates, it holds together beautifully. If you like, add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, chopped cilantro, or shredded cheese to personalize it even more!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes like freshly chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, or a dollop of sour cream bring freshness and creaminess that elevate this casserole. A sprinkle of shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese adds a lovely melty finish, while a squeeze of lime brightens the overall flavor, balancing the heat and savoriness perfectly.
Side Dishes
Though the casserole is a full meal on its own, pairing it with a crisp green salad or a light Mexican street corn salad complements the richness and adds texture contrast. For something warm, soft flour tortillas or garlic-lime rice work wonderfully to help scoop up every delicious last bite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving up the Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe for a casual gathering, try plating it in individual ramekins for pretty personal portions. Alternatively, serve it family-style in its baking dish so everyone can scoop as they please while mingling. Adding colorful bowls of toppings on the side encourages a customizable experience that feels fun and festive.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover casserole stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors tend to deepen after resting overnight, making for a just-as-delicious next-day meal perfect for quick lunches or reheated dinners.
Freezing
If you want to make it a freezer-friendly meal, assemble the casserole but don’t bake it yet. Cover tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When ready, thaw overnight and bake as directed, adding a little extra time if still chilled. This method is a lifesaver for busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, pop individual portions in the microwave covered with a damp paper towel to retain moisture, or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Either way, the casserole perks right back up and tastes freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice in this recipe?
Absolutely! White rice works just as well and will cook a bit faster and have a slightly softer texture. Just keep an eye on baking time and test doneness towards the end to avoid overcooking.
Is it okay to use leftover chicken?
Definitely. Using shredded leftover chicken is a great way to save time and reduce waste, and it adds even more convenience to this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe.
How spicy is this casserole?
The base recipe is mild, especially with the mild green chilies and fajita seasoning. You can adjust spice levels by adding cayenne pepper or using hotter chilies to suit your taste.
Can this recipe be made vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the chicken and consider adding extra beans, veggies, or a meat substitute like sautéed mushrooms or tofu for protein. The fajita seasoning will keep it full of flavor.
What toppings do you recommend?
Classic toppings include sour cream, shredded cheese, sliced avocado, fresh cilantro, diced tomatoes, and lime wedges. Feel free to get creative with salsa, jalapeños, or even pickled onions for extra zing.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe, it’s bound to become a go-to in your recipe rotation. It’s simple, crowd-pleasing, and packs all the flavors you love about Mexican cuisine into one easy dish. Whether for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends, this casserole offers comfort, convenience, and lots of room for personal flair—so give it a whirl and enjoy every delicious bite!
Print
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Casserole
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
- Diet: Low Sodium
Description
This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty and flavorful one-dish meal combining tender shredded chicken, brown rice, black beans, corn, and vibrant bell peppers seasoned with fajita spices and mild green chilies. Baked to perfection, this casserole blends Tex-Mex flavors into a comforting dish perfect for family dinners or meal prepping.
Ingredients
Vegetables & Beans
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup frozen corn kernels
- 1 can (15 oz) low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (4 oz) mild green chilies
Grains & Seasonings
- 1 ½ cups uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (or long-grain white rice)
- 1 tbsp fajita seasoning
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Proteins & Liquids
- 3 cups shredded cooked chicken
- 2 ½ cups reduced-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Combine Dry Ingredients: In a 9×13-inch baking dish, mix together the finely diced onion, diced red bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if using. This creates the flavorful base of your casserole.
- Mix Liquids: In a separate bowl, whisk together the reduced-sodium chicken broth, mild green chilies, and olive oil. Pour this liquid mixture over the rice and vegetable mixture in the baking dish and stir well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Add Proteins and Veggies: Stir in the shredded cooked chicken, drained black beans, and frozen corn kernels until well distributed throughout the mixture.
- Cover and Bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil to trap steam and bake in the preheated oven for 65 to 70 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid completely.
- Rest and Serve: Once done baking, let the casserole sit covered for 5 minutes to set. Serve as is or with your favorite toppings such as sour cream, guacamole, or shredded cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute white long-grain rice if preferred, but cooking time may vary slightly.
- For a spicier casserole, increase the cayenne pepper or add chopped jalapeños.
- Use leftover cooked chicken or rotisserie chicken to save prep time.
- Ensure the dish is covered well to avoid drying out during baking.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
