Nothing warms the heart quite like a Chicken Burrito Casserole bubbling away in the oven, filling your home with the enticing aroma of savory spices and cheesy goodness. There’s something so comforting about this dish, perfectly melding tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty tomatoes, each bite evoking cozy family moments and happy gatherings. It’s simplicity at its best, and it promises to be your new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone in the family will request time and again.
Chicken Burrito Casserole
A warm and comforting Chicken Burrito Casserole filled with tender chicken, hearty beans, and zesty tomatoes, topped with gooey melted cheese.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: None
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, brown rice, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Notes
For added flavor, consider using rotisserie chicken or adding diced bell peppers. This dish is suitable for meal prep and stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Let’s Make It Together
To begin crafting your delightful Chicken Burrito Casserole, start with a warm embrace of your favorite cooking space. Preheat your oven to a comfy 350°F (175°C) to wake up the flavors. While that warmth fills the kitchen, grab a large mixing bowl. Combine the shredded chicken, black beans that have been rinsed and drained, sweet corn, and cooked brown rice. The colors will remind you of a fresh market, bursting with life. Add the can of diced tomatoes, fragrant taco seasoning with its hints of cumin and chili, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste. As you mix it all together, the beautiful rainbow of ingredients creates a collage that brings smiles to all who see it.
Once your mixture is ready, gently transfer it to a greased baking dish. Spread it out evenly, like a warm hug shared among friends. Now comes the yummy part: sprinkle a generous layer of shredded cheese over the top, allowing it to melt into a gooey blanket of deliciousness. Pop your casserole into the preheated oven and let it bake for 25 to 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is bubbly and golden brown, inviting you to dig in. Finally, garnish with fresh cilantro for that vibrant pop of flavor and color. Serve it while it’s warm and watch as everyone comes back for seconds!
What You’ll Need
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn, frozen or canned
- 1 cup cooked brown rice
- 1 can diced tomatoes with green chilies
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Mexican blend)
- 1 teaspoon taco seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Directions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, brown rice, diced tomatoes, taco seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until heated through and cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Nutritional Snapshot
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 40g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 10g
Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe keeps you full without feeling heavy, making it a nourishing choice for your busy weeknight routine.
Perfect Pairings
Imagine gathering everyone around the table for a cozy family dinner, with the Chicken Burrito Casserole at the center. Pair it with a side of crunchy tortilla chips and fresh salsa for a touch of crunch, or perhaps a simple green salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette to brighten up the meal. A tall glass of sweet iced tea or a refreshing mocktail will complete the experience, making it a delightful evening filled with laughter and love.
Keep It Fresh
To store your Chicken Burrito Casserole, let the dish cool completely at room temperature before covering it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil. You can refrigerate it for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, freeze portions in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, or in the microwave for a quicker option. The flavors will only deepen, making each bite just as comforting as the first.
Betty’s Secrets
- Add a splash of lime juice to the chicken mixture for a zesty kick.
- Use rotisserie chicken for a quicker preparation and added flavor.
- Mix in some diced bell peppers or jalapeños for an extra crunch.
- Feel free to swap out the cheese for a vegan alternative if you’re looking to keep it plant-based.
Creative Twists
- For a seasonal spin, add roasted sweet potatoes in the autumn or fresh zucchini in summer for a vibrant touch.
- Incorporate some taco-flavored corn chips on top for an extra layer of crunch and flavor.
Your Questions Answered
Can I use different types of beans in the Chicken Burrito Casserole? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with pinto beans or kidney beans to suit your taste.
Is this casserole suitable for meal prep? Yes! This recipe stores well and can be reheated, making it perfect for meal prep.
Can I make this dish vegetarian? Definitely! Just replace the chicken with a plant-based protein like lentils or additional beans for a hearty option.
How can I spice up the flavor? Consider adding some diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of chili powder to ramp up the heat and excitement!