Name: Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 1 h 10 min
Total time: 1 h 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 tbsp chili powder; 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper; 2 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp salt; 1 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup white onion (chopped); 1 red bell pepper (diced); 1 cup uncooked brown rice; 3 cups chicken broth (low sodium); 2 green chilies (deseeded and chopped); 1 tbsp olive oil; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 cup corn kernels (drained from the can or frozen); 1 14 oz can black beans (drained and rinsed); 5 cups cooked chicken (shredded); 1 1/4 cups cheddar (shredded); Cilantro (chopped); Green onion (chopped); Avocado (chopped); Salsa

Jump to Recipe

If you’re looking for a dinner that hits the spot every single time, Chicken Burrito Casserole is exactly what you need. Imagine all the best flavors of your favorite burrito tucked into a bubbling, cheesy bake that feeds a crowd and delivers on comfort with every scoop. Loaded with seasoned chicken, tender rice, beans, gooey cheddar, and pops of freshness from cilantro and avocado, this casserole is a total superstar for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers. If you love bold, southwestern flavors with minimal fuss and maximum reward, this is the kind of meal that’ll make everyone ask for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Every ingredient in this Chicken Burrito Casserole is simple but so important for building big taste and that crave-worthy texture. These staples combine to create fantastic color, flavor, and heartiness—you probably have most of them in your pantry already!

Chili powder: The base for our signature burrito flavor, lending warmth and mild heat.
Cayenne pepper: Adds a gentle kick—adjust up or down depending on how spicy you like things!
Garlic powder: Boosts savory notes with every bite.
Smoked paprika: Delivers a deep, slightly smoky background flavor that’s irresistible.
Onion powder: For savory depth and balance across the whole dish.
Ground cumin: Brings earthy, aromatic notes that scream “Mexican comfort food.”
Dried oregano: Just a touch adds herbal brightness.
Salt: Essential for drawing out all those gorgeous flavors.
Black pepper: Gives gentle heat and rounds out the spice blend.
White onion (chopped): Softens as it bakes, infusing everything with sweet, mild flavor.
Red bell pepper (diced): Adds crunch and a pop of color to every forkful.
Uncooked brown rice: Absorbs all the zesty broth and turns tender in the casserole—no precooking needed!
Chicken broth (low sodium): Flavors and cooks the rice and keeps everything moist.
Green chilies (deseeded and chopped): Toss in a mild, tangy bite—no overwhelming heat.
Olive oil: Helps carry the flavors and keeps things from drying out.
Tomato paste: Adds richness and a deep, slow-cooked tomato taste in every spoonful.
Corn kernels: Sweet and juicy, they burst with flavor and texture throughout the casserole.
Black beans: Protein-packed and hearty, these make the casserole extra satisfying.
Cooked chicken (shredded): The star of the show—use rotisserie or leftovers to keep it simple.
Cheddar (shredded): Bakes up golden and gooey on top… absolute cheese pull heaven!
Cilantro (chopped): For a fresh finish and pop of color at serving time.
Green onion (chopped): Lends a crisp, peppery bite as a final flourish.
Avocado (chopped): Creamy, cool, and the perfect contrast to warm, bold flavors.
Salsa: Adds moisture and zesty brightness—choose your favorite for extra personality.

How to Make Chicken Burrito Casserole

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Set the oven to 400F so it’s hot and ready to melt the cheese and fully cook the rice. Getting the oven preheated ensures your Chicken Burrito Casserole comes out bubbly and perfect every time.

Step 2: Mix Your Seasonings

In a small bowl, stir together all your spices including chili powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and more. This homemade blend brings classic Tex-Mex flavor—far tastier than any packet and completely customizable!

Step 3: Build the Base in Your Baking Dish

Add your chopped onion, diced bell pepper, and uncooked rice straight into a 9×13 dish. Sprinkle over the seasoning blend, then toss it all together so every grain of rice gets coated with big, bold flavor from the start.

Step 4: Combine the Wet Ingredients

In a separate bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, green chilies, olive oil, and tomato paste until well blended. This liquid is what’ll make the rice cook up tender and infuse the Chicken Burrito Casserole with tons of moisture and zest.

Step 5: Bring the Dish Together

Pour the liquid mixture into the baking dish, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly combined—no dry spots here. This helps the rice cook consistently and melds all those great flavors.

Step 6: Add Corn, Black Beans, and Chicken

Layer in the corn, rinsed black beans, and shredded cooked chicken. Give it a good toss so every bit of chicken is snuggled with rice, veggies, and spices. You want flavors in every bite!

Step 7: Bake Covered

Cover your dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 65 to 70 minutes. This lets the steam do its magic—softening the rice, melting all the flavors together, and ensuring everything cooks through.

Step 8: Cheesy Topping Time

Remove the foil and top the casserole with shredded cheddar cheese. Pop it back in the oven, uncovered, for another 5 to 10 minutes until the cheese is gooey, melted, and just starting to bubble and brown.

Step 9: Add the Fresh Finish

Let your casserole cool for 5 to 10 minutes, then scatter over lots of chopped cilantro, green onions, chunks of avocado, and your favorite salsa. The contrast of hot and fresh is unbeatable here!

How to Serve Chicken Burrito Casserole

Garnishes

The real fun comes at serving time. Load up your Chicken Burrito Casserole with bright, fresh toppings like cilantro, green onion, avocado, and a generous spoonful of salsa. If you love a little extra crunch, try tortilla strips or a squeeze of lime for zing!

Side Dishes

This casserole truly stands on its own, but if you want to go all out, try serving it with a crisp green salad, some warm tortillas (for scooping!), or a side of roasted vegetables. Classic Mexican rice or chips with guacamole also make delicious accompaniments.

Creative Ways to Present

Layer the casserole into individual jars for a fun picnic twist, make burrito bowls by serving scoops over a bed of crisp lettuce, or even roll some of the filling into tortillas with extra cheese and bake again for a two-in-one meal. However you serve it, Chicken Burrito Casserole never disappoints!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Chicken Burrito Casserole stores beautifully—simply cover the dish tightly or transfer to airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as they sit, making day-two portions incredibly satisfying!

Freezing

This casserole is a true make-ahead gem. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or wrap the whole dish with layers of plastic and foil. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months—just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

For best results, reheat Chicken Burrito Casserole in a 350F oven, covered with foil, until hot (about 20 minutes). You can also microwave individual servings, though the oven will keep the cheese melty and flavors fresh. Add fresh toppings after warming for that just-made taste!

FAQs

Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?

Absolutely! Just reduce the baking time slightly, as white rice cooks faster than brown. Begin checking for doneness after about 50 minutes to ensure it doesn’t overcook.

What’s the best chicken to use for Chicken Burrito Casserole?

Shredded rotisserie chicken is my personal favorite for convenience and flavor, but any cooked, shredded chicken breast or thigh works perfectly. Even leftover grilled or roasted chicken adds a wonderful smoky vibe.

How spicy is this dish as written?

The spice level is moderate and family-friendly, but feel free to dial back the cayenne or use mild green chilies for a gentler heat. If you like it hotter, add a splash of your favorite hot sauce before serving.

Can I make Chicken Burrito Casserole ahead for a party?

Yes! Assemble the entire casserole up to a day ahead, cover and refrigerate, then bake when you’re ready. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd or prepping for a busy weeknight.

Is this casserole gluten-free?

Yes, all the main ingredients in this Chicken Burrito Casserole are naturally gluten-free, but always double-check labels on store-bought broth, spices, and salsa just to be sure.

Final Thoughts

This Chicken Burrito Casserole honestly brings people together, whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just fueling yourself for a busy week ahead. Don’t be surprised if it becomes a regular request at your table—give it a try, and enjoy every hearty, flavor-packed bite!

Chicken Burrito Casserole Recipe

★★★★★

5.3 from 20 reviews

Author: Chloe
Total Time: 90 minutes
Yield: 8 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

This Chicken Burrito Casserole is a comforting and flavorful twist on traditional burritos. Layers of seasoned rice, chicken, beans, and veggies, topped with melted cheese and fresh toppings, baked to perfection.

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400F.

In a small bowl, combine all of the seasoning ingredients.

Add onion, red bell pepper, uncooked rice, and the seasoning into a 9×13 baking dish and stir to combine.
In a large bowl, combine chicken broth, green chilies, olive oil and tomato paste.
Pour the mixture into the baking dish and stir to combine.
Add in corn, black beans, and chicken. Mix to combine well.
Now, cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the oven for 65-70 minutes.
Remove the baking dish from the oven, remove the foil, and cover with shredded cheddar.
Bake in the oven for 5-10 minutes until the cheese melts and turns slightly golden.
Allow to cool for 5-10 minutes. Top up with cilantro, green onion, avocado, and salsa before serving.

Notes

You can customize this casserole with your favorite burrito toppings like sour cream, diced tomatoes, or jalapenos.
This dish freezes well for future meals; just thaw and reheat in the oven.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 70 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Mexican