If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that will please the whole family, look no further than this easy chicken burrito casserole. This dish brings all the flavors of your favorite burritos into one hearty casserole that’s packed with tender chicken, beans, cheese, and plenty of spices. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also makes for fantastic leftovers. Whether you’re hosting a casual gathering or just want a comforting dinner during the week, this recipe is your go-to solution. You can easily customize it by adding your preferred toppings or adjusting the spice levels to suit your taste. In less than an hour, you can have this delicious chicken burrito casserole on the table. Let’s dive into the details of why you’ll love this recipe!
Why You’ll Love This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding
- Black Beans: Canned black beans work well; just rinse them before adding to enhance flavor and reduce sodium
- Corn: Use frozen or canned corn; both add sweetness and texture to the casserole
- Taco Seasoning: A store-bought mix saves time, or you can create your own blend using cumin, paprika, and chili powder
- Tortillas: Flour tortillas are ideal for layering; they hold up well in baking without becoming too soggy
- Shredded Cheese: Choose your favorite melting cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack for a rich topping
For the Sauce:
- Salsa: Select a medium or hot salsa based on your spice preference; it adds moisture and flavor to the dish
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While the oven is heating up, spray a large baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
In a skillet over medium heat, cook diced boneless skinless chicken breasts until they are no longer pink inside. This usually takes about 6-8 minutes. Season with taco seasoning during cooking.
Step 3: Mix Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine cooked chicken with black beans, corn, salsa, and half of the shredded cheese. Stir well so all ingredients are evenly coated.
Step 4: Layer Tortillas
Cut flour tortillas into quarters. Start layering by placing half of the tortilla pieces at the bottom of your prepared baking dish.
Step 5: Add Filling
Spread half of the chicken mixture over the tortilla layer. Top with another layer of tortilla pieces followed by the remaining chicken mixture.
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Finish off by sprinkling the remaining shredded cheese on top of everything. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with additional salsa if desired for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Temperature Control: Let ingredients reach room temperature before starting for better results
- Add Freshness: Top with chopped cilantro or avocado after baking for an extra burst of flavor
How to Serve Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
This Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the casserole up to a day in advance. Simply assemble all components, cover tightly, and refrigerate. This allows flavors to meld, making it even tastier. Just bake it for about 30 minutes at 350°F (175°C) when ready to serve.
- Storing: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. Remember to label them with dates for easy identification.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen portions overnight in the fridge. Heat in an oven preheated to 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes until warmed through. Alternatively, you can use a microwave on medium power for about five minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
What is Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delicious and hearty dish that combines the flavors of traditional burritos into a convenient casserole form. This recipe typically features shredded chicken, rice, beans, cheese, and various spices, all layered together in a baking dish. The beauty of this casserole lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize ingredients based on personal preferences. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, as it can be prepared ahead of time and baked just before serving.
How long does it take to prepare Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Preparing Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole usually takes about 15 minutes. Cooking the ingredients may take another 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your oven and how crispy you want the top layer to be. If you’re short on time, consider using rotisserie chicken to cut down on prep time significantly. Simply shred the chicken and mix it with the other ingredients before layering them in your casserole dish. Overall, you can have a warm, comforting meal ready in less than an hour, making it an ideal choice for a quick dinner solution.
Can I make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time?
Yes, you can definitely make Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead of time! To do this, prepare the casserole as directed but stop before baking it. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and store it in the refrigerator for up to two days. When you’re ready to bake it, simply remove the cover and place it in a preheated oven. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly if it’s cold from the fridge. This method is great for meal prepping or ensuring you have a delicious dish ready when unexpected guests arrive.
What are some variations of Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?
You can easily customize Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole based on your taste preferences or dietary needs. For example, swap out shredded chicken for ground beef or turkey if you prefer red meat. If you’re vegetarian, consider using black beans or lentils as protein sources instead of meat. Additionally, experiment with different types of cheese—pepper jack adds heat while cheddar provides classic flavor. For a lower-carb option, replace rice with cauliflower rice or skip grains entirely by increasing vegetable content.
Can I freeze Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Absolutely! Freezing Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is an excellent way to enjoy leftovers later on. To freeze it effectively, allow the casserole to cool completely after baking. Then transfer individual portions into airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last up to three months in the freezer without losing flavor or texture. When you’re ready to eat it again, defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating in the oven until heated through.
What sides pair well with Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole?
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole pairs well with various sides that enhance its flavors. A simple green salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette provides freshness that balances out the richness of the casserole. Additionally, Mexican-style street corn (elote) offers a sweet and savory contrast that complements this dish beautifully. For those who love spice, serve tortilla chips with salsa or guacamole on the side for dipping—perfect for adding extra texture and flavor!
Conclusion for Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole
In conclusion, Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is not only simple to prepare but also incredibly versatile and satisfying for any meal occasion. With its layers of chicken, rice, beans, and cheese baked together into one comforting dish, it brings together delightful flavors everyone will love. Whether you’re preparing this casserole ahead of time or enjoying leftovers from your freezer stash, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to customize your recipe with various proteins and toppings that suit your taste buds best! Enjoy making this delicious casserole today!
Print
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Easy Chicken Burrito Casserole is a delicious, all-in-one dish that combines the comforting flavors of classic burritos into a convenient casserole form. This family-friendly recipe features tender chicken, black beans, corn, and gooey cheese layered between hearty tortillas, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. With minimal prep time and endless customization options, you can adjust the spice levels and toppings to suit your family’s tastes. In less than an hour, you’ll have a warm, satisfying meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
– Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– Canned black beans
– Corn (frozen or canned)
– Taco seasoning
– Flour tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
– Salsa
Instructions
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and prepare a baking dish with nonstick spray.
2. Cook diced chicken in a skillet until no longer pink, seasoning with taco seasoning.
3. In a large bowl, mix cooked chicken with black beans, corn, salsa, and half of the cheese.
4. Layer tortillas in the baking dish, followed by half of the chicken mixture. Repeat layers.
5. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.
Notes
– For added freshness, top with chopped cilantro or avocado.
– Swap chicken for ground beef or turkey for variation.
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 28g