Chicken Burrito Casserole

Packed with flavor and nutrition, Chicken Burrito Casserole is the perfect dish for busy weeknights or meal prep days. This one-pan wonder combines tender chicken, hearty beans, and colorful veggies all baked together to create a mouthwatering meal that everyone will love. It’s not just delicious; it’s also versatile enough to be adapted to any occasion, whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a casual get-together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This casserole comes together quickly, allowing you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein from chicken and fiber from beans and veggies, this dish supports a balanced diet.
• One-Pan Meal: Say goodbye to multiple dishes! Everything cooks in one baking dish, making cleanup a breeze.
• Customizable Flavors: Feel free to add your favorite toppings or swap out ingredients based on what you have on hand.
• Great for Leftovers: This casserole reheats well, making it an excellent option for lunch the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Chicken Burrito Casserole, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment can help ensure everything runs smoothly during the cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Baking dish (9 x 13 inch)
• Mixing bowl
• Whisk
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Forks (for shredding chicken)

Importance of Each Tool

• Baking Dish: A sturdy baking dish ensures even cooking and allows for easy serving directly from the oven.
• Mixing Bowl: A large mixing bowl helps combine ingredients thoroughly without spilling over.

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Ingredients

Packed full of protein, fibre and veggies, this healthy chicken burrito casserole works well as a meal prep idea or simple weeknight dinner.

Base Ingredients

• 1/2 red onion, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1 jalapeño, minced
• 1 cup dry long-grain white rice, basmati or jasmine

Spices and Seasonings

• 2 tablespoons chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Other Ingredients

• 1 cup corn kernels, frozen
• 14oz can black beans, strained and rinsed
• 450g cooked chicken, shredded (6 cups or 3 chicken breasts)
• 3 1/2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 150 grams Monterey Jack or Havarti cheese, grated
• Cilantro, to serve
• Green onion, to serve

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F. If you don’t have any cooked chicken ready, bake three chicken breasts in the oven for about 25 minutes until fully cooked. Afterward, shred them using two forks until they are bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Combine Vegetables and Rice

In your large baking dish, add the diced onion, bell pepper, jalapeño, dry rice, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, oregano, and sea salt. Stir everything together until well mixed.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth Mixture

In a separate mixing bowl or measuring cup, combine the chicken broth with tomato paste and olive oil. Whisk until these ingredients are fully blended.

Step 4: Mix It All Together

Pour the broth mixture into the baking dish with the rice mixture. Stir thoroughly so that every grain of rice is coated in liquid.

Step 5: Add Chicken and Beans

Add shredded chicken along with black beans and frozen corn into the baking dish. Give it one final stir until everything is well incorporated.

Step 6: Bake Until Done

Cover your baking dish with aluminum foil. Place it in the preheated oven and bake for about 50-60 minutes or until all of the liquid has been absorbed by the rice.

Step 7: Cheese It Up

Once baked, remove the aluminum foil carefully. Sprinkle grated cheese over the top of your casserole.

Step 8: Final Bake

Return it to the oven uncovered for an additional 5-10 minutes until the cheese has melted beautifully and is slightly golden.

Step 9: Serve

Take it out from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions as desired for an extra pop of flavor. Enjoy your delicious Chicken Burrito Casserole!

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Serving Chicken Burrito Casserole can be as fun as making it. This dish is versatile and allows for creativity in garnishing and pairing with other foods. Here are some suggestions to enhance your meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
• Green Onions: Chopped green onions add a nice crunch and color.

Add a Side Salad

• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with lettuce, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette complements the casserole well.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime dressing balances the richness of the casserole.

Serve with Dips

• Guacamole: Creamy guacamole provides a rich contrast to the savory casserole.
• Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt adds creaminess and coolness.

How to Perfect Chicken Burrito Casserole

Creating the ultimate Chicken Burrito Casserole requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance flavor and texture.
• Layer the Cheese: For extra cheesiness, layer half of the cheese within the casserole and half on top before baking.
• Adjust Spices: Customize spice levels by adding more chili powder or jalapeños based on your taste preference.
• Cook Rice Properly: Ensure that rice is fully cooked by using sufficient broth; this prevents it from being too dry or undercooked.
• Let it Rest: Allowing the casserole to sit for about 10 minutes after baking helps it set, making serving easier.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try adding sliced olives, diced avocados, or even pickled jalapeños for added flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Chicken Burrito Casserole

Pairing sides with Chicken Burrito Casserole can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delightful options.

1. Spanish Rice: Flavored with tomato and spices, this rice complements the burrito flavors beautifully.
2. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide additional protein and pair well with the casserole’s texture.
3. Grilled Vegetables: Seasoned grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and corn add freshness and color to your plate.
4. Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips serve as a great side for dipping into any sauces or toppings you choose.
5. Avocado Salad: A simple avocado salad mixed with lime juice offers a refreshing contrast to the warm casserole.
6. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made with cabbage and carrots adds crunch and brightness to your dinner table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making a Chicken Burrito Casserole, there are a few common pitfalls to steer clear of.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your ingredients can result in a bland casserole. Make sure to use all the spices listed for maximum flavor.
• Not measuring ingredients: Over- or under-measuring ingredients can affect the texture and taste. Always use precise measurements for best results.
• Using uncooked rice: If you forget to include pre-cooked rice, it won’t cook properly in the casserole. Ensure your rice is cooked according to package instructions before adding.
• Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Use shredded cooked chicken for a more tender texture in your casserole.
• Neglecting to cover while baking: Leaving the dish uncovered while baking can lead to dry results. Cover with foil initially to retain moisture.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• The casserole will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Chicken Burrito Casserole

• Allow the casserole to cool completely before freezing.
• Use a freezer-safe container or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Chicken Burrito Casserole

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F, cover with foil, and bake for about 20-25 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place individual portions on a microwave-safe plate and heat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if necessary, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Chicken Burrito Casserole is a hearty dish made with seasoned chicken, rice, beans, corn, and cheese baked together for a delicious meal.

Can I customize my Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! You can add your favorite vegetables or substitute different types of cheese based on your preference.

How do I make Chicken Burrito Casserole vegetarian?

To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace the chicken with additional beans or sautéed vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms.

Is Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes! This recipe uses rice and does not contain any gluten ingredients, making it suitable for gluten-free diets.

How long does it take to prepare Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Preparation takes about 10 minutes, with an additional cooking time of around 55 minutes.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only packed with flavor but also offers plenty of protein and veggies. It’s perfect for meal prepping or serving on busy weeknights. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients for added variety!