Name: Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 3 cups cooked, shredded chicken; 1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed; 1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen); 1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained; 1 cup cooked rice; 1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 6 large flour tortillas, cut into strips; 2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided; Chopped green onions; Chopped cilantro

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If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate crowd-pleasing weeknight dinner, look no further than this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole. It’s the kind of dish that brings everyone running to the kitchen, thanks to its irresistibly cheesy layers, zesty flavors, and the hearty combination of chicken, rice, beans, and tortillas. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for something cozy to meal prep for yourself, this casserole is bound to become a staple in your recipe rotation.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

One of the best things about Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is how simple the ingredient list is—each item is easy to find, and every single one pulls its weight in creating a casserole that’s bold, comforting, and packed with color. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken: This is the hearty backbone of your casserole and a perfect way to use up leftover or rotisserie chicken.
1 (15-ounce) can black beans (drained and rinsed): Black beans bring protein, fiber, and a creamy texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen): Corn adds pops of sweetness and color—use whichever type Main Course.
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies (undrained): This brings a tangy kick and just the right amount of heat to the casserole.
1 cup cooked rice: Rice adds substance, making each bite filling and satisfying—white or brown rice both work well here.
1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce: This is the flavor-maker, infusing the whole dish with rich, savory notes and just enough spice.
1 teaspoon chili powder: For a smoky, earthy flavor that’s classic in Tex-Mex cooking.
1/2 teaspoon cumin: Adds warmth and a subtle depth to the flavor profile.
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances everything else with a mellow garlicky note—so easy and no mincing required!
Salt and pepper to taste: Seasoning is key, so be sure to give your mixture a taste before layering.
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese: The melty, gooey cheese factor is what makes this casserole so crave-worthy.
6 large flour tortillas (cut into strips): These soak up all the saucy flavors and help hold the casserole together—try corn tortillas for a gluten-free twist.
Chopped green onions and cilantro for garnish (optional): These fresh toppings brighten up the whole dish and add a lovely burst of color.

How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Baking Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with a little oil or nonstick spray. This step ensures your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole won’t stick and makes serving a breeze.

Step 2: Mix Up the Filling

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked, shredded chicken, black beans, corn, the entire can of diced tomatoes with green chilies (don’t drain!), cooked rice, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded cheese. Give everything a good mix so every bite is loaded with flavor and texture.

Step 3: Layer the Casserole

Take half of your tortilla strips and arrange them evenly over the bottom of your prepared baking dish. Pour in half of the chicken mixture and spread it out. Repeat with the remaining tortilla strips and the rest of your chicken mixture, creating delicious layers that will bake up perfectly.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Bake

Sprinkle the remaining cup of shredded cheese over the top, making sure to cover the surface for that classic casserole look. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling—the best part!

Step 5: Rest and Garnish

Once your Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is out of the oven, let it rest for 5 to 10 minutes. This helps everything set, making slicing and serving so much easier. Top with chopped green onions and cilantro if you like, and get ready for some happy faces at the table!

How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole

Garnishes

The right garnishes can take your casserole from tasty to truly unforgettable. I love to scatter a handful of chopped green onions and cilantro over the top for a pop of freshness. You can also set out bowls of sour cream, sliced avocado, or your favorite salsa—let everyone build their own perfect bite!

Side Dishes

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is hearty enough to stand on its own, but pairing it with simple sides is always a hit. Try a crisp green salad with a tangy lime vinaigrette, some roasted veggies, or even classic tortilla chips for scooping up every last bit. Mexican-style street corn or a bowl of guacamole make fantastic company, too.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the casserole in individual ramekins or mini baking dishes. This is especially great for dinner parties or meal prepping lunches. You can also roll up the filling in whole tortillas for handheld burrito bakes or use bell pepper halves as edible boats for a lower-carb option. The Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is as flexible as it is delicious!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a dream come true for busy days! Simply cover the baking dish with foil or transfer slices to airtight containers, and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle together.

Freezing

This casserole freezes beautifully. Cool it completely, then wrap the whole dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil, or portion out individual servings for grab-and-go lunches. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label and date it so you know when it’s time for another cozy meal.

Reheating

To reheat, simply microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes until piping hot, or pop the whole casserole (covered) in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes. If reheating from frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator first for the best texture. Add a fresh sprinkle of cheese or garnishes right before serving to revive that just-baked flavor.

FAQs

Can I use rotisserie chicken for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Absolutely! Rotisserie chicken is a fantastic shortcut and adds great flavor. Just shred it up and use it as you would cooked chicken in the recipe.

Can I make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole gluten-free?

Yes, you can. Simply swap the flour tortillas for corn tortillas and double-check your enchilada sauce label to ensure it’s gluten-free.

What’s the best way to spice up this casserole?

If you like things extra spicy, add some chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling. You can also use a hot variety of enchilada sauce for more heat.

Can I assemble Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?

You sure can! Assemble the casserole up to a day in advance, cover tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, just add a few extra minutes to the baking time if it’s going straight from the fridge.

What can I use instead of chicken?

If you want to switch things up, cooked ground beef, turkey, or even sautéed veggies work wonderfully in place of chicken. The recipe is super adaptable to what you have on hand.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’ll give this Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole a try—it’s one of those recipes that always brings joy to the table and makes dinner a little more special. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to treat yourself, this casserole is a warm, cheesy hug in every bite. Enjoy!

Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

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4.6 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a flavorful and hearty Mexican-inspired dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. Combining shredded chicken, black beans, corn, tomatoes with green chilies, and a blend of spices, this casserole is layered with tortillas and melted Mexican cheese for a comforting, cheesy bake that’s both satisfying and simple to prepare.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken Mixture

3 cups cooked, shredded chicken
1 (15-ounce) can black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup corn kernels (fresh, canned, or frozen)
1 (10-ounce) can diced tomatoes with green chilies, undrained
1 cup cooked rice
1 (10-ounce) can enchilada sauce
1 teaspoon chili powder
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste

Casserole Assembly

6 large flour tortillas, cut into strips
2 cups shredded Mexican blend cheese, divided

Garnishes (Optional)

Chopped green onions
Chopped cilantro

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Instructions

Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
Mix the Filling: In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded chicken, black beans, corn, diced tomatoes with green chilies (including the juice), cooked rice, enchilada sauce, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded Mexican blend cheese until well mixed.
Layer the Casserole: Spread half of the tortilla strips evenly over the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Then, spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla layer. Repeat by adding the remaining tortilla strips followed by the rest of the chicken mixture on top.
Add Cheese Topping: Sprinkle the remaining 1 cup of shredded Mexican blend cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
Bake Covered: Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and heat through.
Bake Uncovered: Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden.
Rest and Garnish: Let the casserole rest for 5 to 10 minutes to set, making it easier to cut and serve. Garnish with chopped green onions and cilantro if desired.