If you’re craving a comforting, flavor-packed dinner that comes together with minimal fuss, this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is going to be your new go-to. Layered with tender shredded chicken, hearty black beans, sweet corn, and a medley of spices all baked under a blanket of gooey cheese, it’s the perfect weeknight meal that feels special but doesn’t keep you in the kitchen all night. Every bite offers a warm, satisfying mix of textures and tastes that make leftovers just as irresistible as the first go.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of this recipe lies in its simple, readily available ingredients that each play a vital role in building the dish’s bold and comforting character. From the creamy tang of sour cream to the gentle crunch of corn and the zesty kick of spices, every element is carefully chosen to deliver that classic burrito flavor in casserole form.
- Cooked shredded chicken: Provides tender, protein-rich goodness that’s the heart of this casserole.
- Black beans (15 oz can, drained and rinsed): Adds creaminess and a nutrient boost while balancing the texture.
- Corn kernels (1 cup): Brings a sweet pop and bright color, whether fresh, canned, or frozen works fine.
- Salsa (1 cup): Infuses vibrant tomato flavor and a touch of spice—choose your favorite style.
- Sour cream (1 cup): Adds luscious creaminess that keeps the filling moist and rich.
- Ground cumin (1 teaspoon): Offers earthy warmth that’s signature in Mexican-inspired dishes.
- Chili powder (1 teaspoon): Delivers subtle smoky heat to wake up the palate.
- Garlic powder (½ teaspoon): Provides a savory depth without overpowering the other flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for enhancing all the natural flavors.
- Cooked rice (2 cups): Absorbs the flavors and helps bind the casserole together.
- Shredded cheddar cheese (1½ cups): Melts beautifully, creating that irresistible gooey topping and melty pockets inside.
- Flour tortillas (6 large, cut into strips): Form the base layers adding a soft, chewy texture and authentic burrito vibes.
- Chopped green onions and cilantro (optional): Fresh and zesty garnishes that brighten the finished dish.
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Mix
Begin by heating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). While it warms up, grab a large bowl and combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, sour cream, and all your spices—cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, along with salt and pepper. Then stir in the cooked rice and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese. This mixture is packed with textures and flavors that will make your casserole sing.
Step 2: Layer the Tortillas
Take a 9×13-inch casserole dish and grease it lightly to prevent sticking. Spread half of the tortilla strips evenly across the bottom. These strips serve as the foundation, soaking up juiciness while adding a subtle softness that sets this dish apart.
Step 3: Add the Chicken Mixture
Spread half of the chicken and bean mixture over the tortilla layer, making sure everything is evenly distributed for balanced bites. Then repeat with the remaining tortilla strips and the rest of the filling. This method creates those delightful layers that make every forkful a combination of creamy, cheesy, and tender.
Step 4: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of cheese all over the top. Cover the casserole with foil and pop it in the oven. Bake for 20 minutes, then remove the foil to let the cheese get bubbly and golden, baking uncovered for another 10 minutes. When it’s done, let it rest for 5 minutes so those flavors settle and the casserole firms up a bit for easy serving.
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Finishing touches like chopped green onions and fresh cilantro add an herby brightness that cuts through the cheesy richness beautifully. If you like a little extra zing, a squeeze of lime juice or a few slices of creamy avocado on top can really elevate the experience.
Side Dishes
This casserole stands strong on its own but pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or some crisp tortilla chips and guacamole to keep things light and fresh. A scoop of Mexican rice or even a drizzle of sour cream on the side can round out the meal perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving this casserole in individual ramekins for a fun twist at dinner parties, or spoon it into taco shells for a hybrid burrito-taco experience. Wrap leftovers tightly and cut into squares for hearty lunchbox options—flavor just gets better after a day or two!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover casserole in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors meld wonderfully overnight, making leftovers just as delightful as the initial meal.
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully either before or after baking. Wrap tightly in foil and place in a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months, perfect for prepping meals ahead of busy weeks.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, then warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. Alternatively, microwave single servings for 2-3 minutes until hot, though the oven helps restore that fresh-baked texture best.
FAQs
Can I use rotisserie chicken for this recipe?
Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken works wonderfully since it’s already cooked and shredded, saving prep time and adding lots of flavor with minimal effort.
Is it possible to make this casserole vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap out the chicken for extra beans, grilled veggies, or a meat substitute like tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian-friendly version that’s just as tasty and hearty.
Can I use corn tortillas instead of flour tortillas?
Flour tortillas are preferred for their softness, but corn tortillas can work too—just be gentle when layering as they tend to break more easily.
How spicy is this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe?
The dish has a mild to moderate spice level thanks to chili powder and cumin without overwhelming heat. You can adjust the spice by adding jalapeños or hot sauce if you like things hotter.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time and bake it later?
Definitely! Assemble the casserole, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. This makes it perfect for busy days or entertaining.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe is the kind of dish that becomes a family favorite fast—it’s comforting, easy to make, and bursting with wholesome flavors. Whether you’re feeding the crowd or simply craving a cozy dinner, it’s a spectacular dish to have in your recipe stash. Give it a try and watch how quickly it disappears from the table!
Print
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican-American
Description
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a comforting and flavorful Mexican-American dish perfect for a family dinner or meal prep. It combines shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, and rice layered with tortillas and cheese, then baked to bubbly perfection. Topped with fresh green onions and cilantro, it’s a cozy, cheesy casserole that’s quick to prepare and sure to satisfy.
Ingredients
Chicken Mixture
- 3 cups cooked shredded chicken
- 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 cup sour cream
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups cooked rice
Other Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (or Mexican blend), divided
- 6 large flour tortillas, cut into strips
- Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to ensure it is at the right temperature for baking the casserole evenly and thoroughly.
- Mix the filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, salsa, sour cream, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cooked rice and 1 cup of the shredded cheese until everything is evenly mixed.
- Prepare the casserole dish: Lightly grease a 9×13-inch casserole dish to prevent sticking and help with easy serving later.
- Layer the casserole: Arrange half of the tortilla strips evenly on the bottom of the casserole dish. Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortillas. Repeat the layering with the remaining tortilla strips and chicken mixture on top.
- Add cheese topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheese evenly over the top layer.
- Bake covered: Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to heat through and allow flavors to meld.
- Bake uncovered: Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Rest and garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes before serving to set. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired for a fresh, bright finish.
Notes
- This casserole is a fantastic way to use up leftover cooked chicken and rice.
- For extra heat, add chopped jalapeños to the filling mixture.
- Top with diced avocado and a squeeze of lime juice for added freshness and creaminess before serving.
