Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
If your family loves Mexican food, whip together this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole for an easy, low-prep dinner! This dish captures the flavors of your favorite burritos but combines everything into one big casserole dish. It’s packed with protein and can be enjoyed on busy weeknights, family gatherings, or any casual get-together. Plus, it’s gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary needs!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This casserole comes together in just a few steps, making it perfect for a busy evening.
- Flavorful: The combination of fajita seasoning and fresh ingredients delivers a delightful burst of flavors.
- Versatile: Customize your casserole by adding your favorite veggies or swapping proteins to suit your taste.
- One-Dish Wonder: Cooking everything in one baking dish means fewer dishes to wash afterward.
- Healthy Option: Packed with shredded chicken and beans, this dish is high in protein and low in fat.
Tools and Preparation
To make this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole efficiently, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These will help streamline the cooking process and ensure that everything turns out perfectly.
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Essential Tools and Equipment
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Aluminum foil
- Measuring cups
Importance of Each Tool
- Baking Dish: A 9×13 inch baking dish is ideal for holding all the ingredients together while baking evenly.
- Mixing Bowl: Using a mixing bowl allows you to combine the wet ingredients thoroughly before adding them to the dry components.
Ingredients
Fresh Vegetables
- 1/2 cup finely diced onion
- 1 red bell pepper (diced)
Rice & Seasoning
- 1 cup uncooked parboiled long-grain brown rice (can also use long grain white rice)
- 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning (homemade or store-bought)
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup corn kernels (frozen)
- 1 14 ounce can low sodium black beans (drained and rinsed)
- 5 cups shredded chicken
Liquids & Flavor Enhancers
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 4 ounce can mild green chilies
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
Topping
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F. While it’s heating up, prepare your baking dish.
Step 2: Combine Vegetables and Rice
In a 9×13 inch baking dish, add the finely diced onion, diced bell pepper, uncooked rice, fajita seasoning, and cayenne pepper if you’re using it. Stir these ingredients together until well mixed.
Step 3: Mix Wet Ingredients
In a separate bowl or measuring cup, whisk together the chicken broth, green chiles, tomato paste, and olive oil until combined.
Step 4: Combine All Ingredients
Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish with the rice mixture. Stir well to ensure everything is evenly coated. Next, add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn to the baking dish. Mix until well combined.
Step 5: Bake Covered
Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and place it in the oven. Bake for 65-70 minutes or until all of the liquid is absorbed.
Step 6: Add Cheese Topping
Once baked, remove the foil from the dish and sprinkle the grated cheese evenly on top. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes until melted and slightly golden.
Step 7: Cool and Serve
After removing from the oven, let it cool for about 5-10 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro, green onion, salsa, or avocado if desired. Enjoy your delicious Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole!
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your meal experience. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or enjoying a quiet night in, these serving suggestions will elevate your casserole.
With Fresh Toppings
- Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances the spices.
- Avocado Slices: Fresh avocado brings a rich, buttery flavor that complements the casserole.
- Salsa: A spoonful of salsa adds acidity and freshness, perfect for enhancing the flavors.
On a Bed of Greens
- Mixed Greens Salad: Serve the casserole over mixed greens for a light and healthy twist.
- Spinach: Wilted spinach can add nutrients and color to your plate, making it visually appealing.
As Leftovers
- Reheated with Cheese: Enjoy leftover portions reheated in the oven with an extra sprinkle of cheese on top for a melty treat.
- In Tacos: Use leftover casserole as a filling for soft tacos or burritos, adding fresh toppings as desired.
How to Perfect Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
To ensure your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole turns out perfectly every time, follow these handy tips.
- Use Cooked Chicken: If you’re short on time, using rotisserie chicken can speed up the prep process without sacrificing flavor.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the amount of fajita seasoning and cayenne pepper according to your spice preference.
- Add More Veggies: Incorporate additional vegetables like zucchini or black olives for extra nutrition and taste.
- Use Quality Cheese: Opt for high-quality Monterey Jack cheese for better melting and richer flavor.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to cool for 5-10 minutes before serving helps it set, making portioning easier.
- Experiment with Rice Types: While brown rice is healthy, trying white rice or cauliflower rice can alter texture and taste.
Best Side Dishes for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Pairing your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole with the right side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall experience. Here are some delicious options:
- Mexican Street Corn Salad: A creamy corn salad with lime and cilantro that complements the flavors beautifully.
- Guacamole: This creamy avocado dip adds richness and pairs well with the spices in the casserole.
- Refried Beans: Traditional refried beans provide a creamy side that balances the textures of the casserole.
- Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips with fresh salsa offer a fun contrast to the softness of the casserole.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice flavored with cilantro and lime adds brightness to your meal.
- Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa brings zing and freshness, perfect alongside a hearty dish like this casserole.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making an Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of the dish.
- Skipping the seasoning: Not using enough fajita seasoning can lead to blandness. Always taste and adjust your seasonings for a flavorful casserole.
- Overcooking the rice: If you cook the rice beforehand, it may turn mushy. Use uncooked rice as specified in the recipe for perfect texture.
- Ignoring liquid ratios: Adding too much or too little broth can change the casserole’s consistency. Measure carefully for best results.
- Not covering while baking: Failing to cover your dish with foil can cause it to dry out. Always cover it during the initial baking phase.
- Rushing cooling time: Cutting into the casserole too soon can result in a messy serving. Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving for better slices.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
- The casserole will last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
- It can be frozen for up to 2 months. Label with date for easy tracking.
Reheating Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F and cover with foil. Bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish and cover loosely. Heat on medium power in 1-minute intervals until warm.
- Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about making an Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole.
Can I make this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare it ahead of time, cover it, and refrigerate it before baking. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s cold from the fridge.
What can I substitute for chicken?
You can use shredded turkey or even beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is gluten-free as long as you ensure all ingredients, like broth and seasonings, are certified gluten-free.
How do I customize my burrito casserole?
You can add different vegetables like zucchini or spinach, or swap cheeses based on your preference. The recipe is versatile!
Final Thoughts
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile! You can easily customize it to suit your family’s tastes while enjoying a comforting meal that’s perfect for busy nights. Give it a try and make it your own!
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Total Time: 1 hour 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
If you’re seeking a quick and satisfying meal that brings the flavors of your favorite Mexican burritos to the table, look no further than this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole. This one-dish wonder combines tender shredded chicken, hearty beans, and vibrant vegetables all baked together with delicious spices and topped with melted cheese. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this casserole is not only easy to prepare but also gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. Whether you serve it as a main dish or use leftovers in tacos, this casserole is sure to become a household favorite.
Ingredients
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain brown rice
- 3 tablespoons fajita seasoning
- 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 can (14 oz) low-sodium black beans, drained and rinsed
- 5 cups shredded chicken
- 3 cups reduced sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (4 oz) mild green chilies
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 1/4 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F and prepare a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- In the baking dish, combine onion, bell pepper, rice, fajita seasoning, and optional cayenne pepper.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together chicken broth, green chiles, tomato paste, and olive oil.
- Pour the broth mixture over the rice mixture; stir to combine.
- Add shredded chicken, black beans, and corn; mix well.
- Cover with foil and bake for 65-70 minutes until liquid is absorbed.
- Remove foil, add cheese on top, and bake for an additional 5-10 minutes until melted.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 70 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the casserole (approximately 250g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
