Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is the ultimate all-in-one meal, loaded with rice, seasoned chicken, and vibrant veggies, all topped with gooey melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, it’s hearty, flavorful, and made in just one baking dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks together in one dish for easy prep and cleanup.
• Packed with Flavor: Loaded with fajita seasoning, green chiles, and a hint of cayenne for a warm, bold taste.
• Customizable: Swap in your favorite ingredients or toppings to make it your own.

this Recipe

Ingredients

• Onion: Adds a savory base to the dish.
• Red Bell Pepper: Brings a pop of color and sweetness.
• Uncooked Parboiled Brown Rice: Absorbs flavors as it cooks; white rice also works.
• Fajita Seasoning: Adds a bold, smoky taste to the casserole.
• Cayenne Pepper: Optional for a hint of heat.
• Corn Kernels: Adds texture and a touch of sweetness.
• Black Beans: Adds protein and a creamy texture.
• Shredded Chicken: A hearty protein base; use pre-cooked or rotisserie chicken.
• Chicken Broth: Keeps the casserole moist and flavorful.
• Mild Green Chiles: Adds a mild kick.
• Olive Oil: Adds richness and helps blend flavors.
• Tomato Paste: Adds depth to the sauce.
• Monterey Jack Cheese: Melts beautifully for a creamy, cheesy topping.

Variations

• Switch Up the Cheese: Try cheddar or a Mexican cheese blend for a different flavor.
• Add More Veggies: Stir in zucchini, chopped tomatoes, or jalapeños.
• Swap Seasonings: Taco seasoning works just as well as fajita seasoning.

How to Make the Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat the oven to 400°F. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, add onion, bell pepper, rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine.

Step 2: Mix the Broth

In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, green chiles, tomato paste, and olive oil. Pour the mixture into the baking dish and stir to combine with the rice mixture.

Step 3: Add Chicken, Beans, and Corn

Add the shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the baking dish, stirring everything together.

Step 4: Bake the Casserole

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

Step 5: Add Cheese and Melt

Remove the foil, sprinkle the top with Monterey Jack cheese, and return the casserole to the oven. Bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Step 6: Cool and Serve

Allow the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes. Top with fresh cilantro, green onions, salsa, or avocado, if desired, and serve warm.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Check the Liquid: If it looks soupy, give it a quick stir and return to the oven. The rice will absorb more liquid as it sits.
• Use Shredded Rotisserie Chicken: It saves time and adds great flavor.
• Homemade Fajita Seasoning: Customize the seasoning to your taste, or use store-bought for convenience.

How to Serve

Here’s how you can serve this flavorful casserole:

• Garnishes: Top with cilantro, green onions, salsa, sour cream, or avocado slices.
• Side Dish: Pair with a simple green salad or tortilla chips.
• Wrap it Up: Scoop the casserole into a large tortilla and roll it up for a burrito-style meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

• Storing Leftovers: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or oven at 350°F until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of rice?

Yes, long-grain white rice works as well. Adjust cooking time as needed.

2. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add extra cayenne or diced jalapeños to the casserole before baking.

3. Can I add toppings to this casserole?

Absolutely! Top with sour cream, salsa, chopped cilantro, or diced avocado.

4. Can I make this casserole vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and add more beans or veggies for a meat-free version.

Conclusion

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole brings all the best flavors of a burrito into one convenient dish! Simple to prepare, loaded with flavor, and endlessly versatile, this casserole is perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or even a fun twist on burrito night. Enjoy the ultimate comfort food with minimal fuss!

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