Chicken Burrito Casserole: A Delicious & Easy Family Favorite 🥘🌯🔥
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a quick, flavorful, and hearty burrito casserole recipe, you’ve come to the right place. This chicken burritos inspired dish combines the best of Mexican flavors with the comfort of a baked casserole. Perfect for busy weeknights or a satisfying chicken dinner, this main dish is versatile, healthy, and guaranteed to please the entire family. Whether you’re a fan of classic chicken recipes casserole or looking for healthy dinner recipes, this yummy dinner provides everything you love about Mexican food in one easy-to-make dish.
2. Ingredients for Chicken Burrito Casserole
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or rotisserie chicken for convenience)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup salsa (your preferred heat level)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, or chopped onions for extra flavor
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Preparing the Best Burrito Casserole
Bold Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking. Meanwhile, gather all your ingredients for a smooth cooking process.
Bold Step 2: Mix the Filling
In a large bowl, combine the shredded chicken, cooked rice, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and salsa. Mix well to ensure each ingredient is evenly coated and flavorful. If you want a more robust flavor, add a pinch of cumin or chili powder.
Bold Step 3: Assemble the Casserole
Spread half of the chicken mixture evenly at the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with half of the shredded cheddar cheese. Repeat with the remaining mixture and cheese for a layered, delicious casserole.
Bold Step 4: Bake to Perfection
Place the assembled casserole in the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. For an extra crispy top, you can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye so it doesn’t burn.
Bold Step 5: Serve and Garnish
Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro, sliced jalapeños, or avocado slices for added freshness. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a side of tortilla chips or a simple green salad.
4. Storage Tips for Your Chicken Burrito Casserole
This burrito casserole stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave individual servings for 1-2 minutes or bake uncovered at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. For longer storage, consider freezing portions for up to 2 months. To freeze, let the casserole cool completely before wrapping tightly with aluminum foil or placing in a freezer-safe container.
5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Burrito Casserole
This chicken burritos casserole pairs beautifully with fresh salads, corn bread, or crispy tortilla chips. For an authentic touch, add a side of Mexican rice or refried beans. Want to make it a complete Mexican-inspired dinner? Check out a delightful crockpot birria or explore easy cowboy butter chicken linguine for new dinner ideas.
6. Nutritional Benefits of This Healthy Burrito Casserole
This healthy dinner recipe offers a balanced mix of lean protein from the chicken, fiber from beans and corn, and essential nutrients from fresh vegetables and herbs. It’s a great way to keep your chicken dinner from becoming monotonous while maintaining a nutritious profile. Incorporating such low-carb recipes can be another step toward a healthier lifestyle.
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Burrito Casserole
Q: Can I prepare this casserole ahead of time?
Absolutely! Assemble the casserole the night before, cover it with plastic wrap, and store it in the fridge. Bake it fresh the next day for a quick meal.
Q: Is this Burrito Casserole customizable?
Yes! Feel free to add your favorite ingredients such as sautéed peppers, onions, or even swap the beans for pinto or kidney beans. It’s a versatile chicken dish that adapts to your taste preferences.
Q: What are some tips for making this dish healthier?
Use low-fat cheese, incorporate more vegetables, or opt for brown rice instead of white rice. For a low-carb twist, consider replacing rice with cauliflower rice. For more low-carb options, check out this low-carb crack chicken soup.
8. Final Thoughts
In conclusion, this chicken burrito casserole is a delicious, easy-to-make main dish recipe that combines the flavors of Mexican cuisine with the convenience of a baked meal. Perfect for busy chicken dinners, it offers a wonderful way to enjoy yummy dinners without spending hours in the kitchen. Try it today and enjoy a satisfying chicken recipe casserole that everyone will love!
9. Conclusion
This burrito casserole is your go-to recipe for a flavorful, fulfilling, and healthy chicken dinner. It’s easy, customizable, and perfect for feeding family or friends. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll be serving up a delicious dish everyone will rave about. Don’t forget to pair it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a hearty chicken dinner that hits every note of comfort and taste!
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Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Contains Dairy, Can Be Made Gluten-Free
Description
Discover the delicious and easy Chicken Burrito Casserole, a hearty baked dish packed with Mexican flavors. Perfect for quick weeknight dinners, this casserole combines shredded chicken, rice, beans, corn, and cheese for a satisfying family meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked shredded chicken (or rotisserie chicken)
- 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup corn kernels
- 1 packet taco seasoning
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 1 cup salsa
- 1/2 cup sour cream (for topping)
- Optional: sliced jalapeños, avocado slices, chopped onions
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, rice, black beans, corn, taco seasoning, and salsa. Mix well.
- Spread half of the mixture into the baking dish, sprinkle with half of the cheese. Repeat layers.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy top if desired.
- Rest for 5 minutes, garnish with cilantro, jalapeños, or avocado. Serve with sour cream and side dishes.
Notes
- Best served hot with additional toppings like chopped onions or sliced jalapeños.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
- To reheat, microwave for 1-2 minutes or bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 430 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 910mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 44g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 31g
- Cholesterol: 95mg